Arar: The Hidden Gem of Northern Saudi Arabia

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaban]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wadaeana]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [laa]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك/على الرحب والسعة
  [min fadlik/alaa ar-rahb was-sa'ah]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [udhran]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayfa halak?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bikhair. wa'ant?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatahadath al-inglizia?]
• I don't understandأنا لا أفهم
  [ana la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [uriidu an ara al-qa'imah, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [ana la aakulu al-lahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtak!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأريد أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [uriidu an adfa', min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [al-najdah!]
• Go away!انصرف!
  [insarif!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [itassal bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [itassal bittabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت
  [laqad dalaltu]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أريد أن أشتري...
  [uriidu an ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتطلع
  [ana faqat atatallu]
• How much is it?كم سعره؟
  [kam sa'ruh?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghali jidan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuka khaafid al-sa'r?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam al-saa'ah?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [al-saa'ah al-wahidah]
• Half past (10)الساعة العاشرة والنصف
  [al-saa'ah al-aashirah wan-nusf]
• Morningالصباح
  [al-sabah]
• Afternoonالظهر
  [al-dhuhr]
• Eveningالمساء
  [al-masaa]
• Yesterdayأمس
  [ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [al-yawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalathah]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'ah]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsah]
• 6ستة
  [sitah]
• 7سبعة
  [sab'ah]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamaania]
• 9تسعة
  [tis'ah]
• 10عشرة
  [asharah]

• Where's a/the...?أين يوجد...؟
  [ayn yuwajid...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [maa huwa al-anaan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuka an tureeni (ala al-kharitah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى يأتي الحافلة القادمة؟
  [mata yaati al-hafilah al-qadimah?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ...)
  [tadhkirah (ila ...)]

Arar's history stretches back to prehistoric times, with archaeological evidence suggesting human activity in the region for thousands of years. Ancient tools and pottery shards discovered in the area point to early human settlements that thrived in the fertile valleys and oases.

During the pre-Islamic era, Arar served as a vital stop along the ancient caravan routes that traversed the Arabian Peninsula. These trade routes connected the southern parts of Arabia with Mesopotamia and the Levant, facilitating the exchange of goods such as spices, incense, and textiles.

With the advent of Islam in the 7th century, Arar and the surrounding region became part of the expanding Islamic Caliphate. The area's strategic location made it a key point for the movement of armies and the spread of Islamic culture and religion.

In the 16th century, the Ottoman Empire extended its control over the Arabian Peninsula, including Arar. The Ottomans established administrative structures and military outposts in the region, leaving a lasting impact on local governance and architecture.

The discovery of oil in the mid-20th century transformed Arar from a modest town into a thriving city. The influx of wealth and modernization brought new infrastructure, including roads, schools, and hospitals, drastically improving the quality of life for its residents.

Despite rapid modernization, Arar has managed to preserve its rich cultural heritage. Traditional Bedouin customs, such as poetry, music, and camel breeding, remain an integral part of the local culture. The city also hosts several cultural festivals that celebrate the region's history and traditions.

Arar's location near the Iraqi border has made it an important geopolitical hub. The city plays a crucial role in cross-border trade and diplomacy, serving as a gateway between Saudi Arabia and Iraq.

Arar is located in the Northern Borders Province of Saudi Arabia. The closest airport is Arar Domestic Airport (RAE), which has flights connecting to major cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam. International travelers can fly into King Khalid International Airport (RUH) in Riyadh or King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) in Jeddah and then take a domestic flight to Arar. Alternatively, you can reach Arar by road; it is well-connected by highways from various cities in Saudi Arabia.

In Arar, taxis are the most common mode of transport and are readily available. It's advisable to negotiate the fare before starting your journey. For those who prefer self-driving, car rental services are available at the airport and in the city. Public buses operate within the city and connect to nearby towns, although their schedules may be less frequent. Walking is also an option for short distances within the city center.

The official currency in Saudi Arabia is the Saudi Riyal (SAR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments, local markets, and taxis. ATMs are available throughout Arar, and currency exchange services can be found at the airport and in major banks.

Arar is generally a safe city for tourists. However, it is always prudent to take standard precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping a close watch on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific areas in Arar known for high crime rates targeting tourists, but staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always recommended.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Arar has medical facilities and hospitals equipped to handle emergencies. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in the city for over-the-counter medications. The local police station is also accessible for any legal or safety concerns.

Fashion: Do dress modestly; men and women should avoid wearing shorts and sleeveless tops in public. Women should wear an abaya, and a headscarf is recommended. Religion: Do respect Islamic customs and prayer times. Avoid public displays of affection and refrain from eating or drinking in public during the holy month of Ramadan. Public Transport: Do be courteous and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Avoid loud conversations and eating on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with 'As-salamu alaykum' (peace be upon you). A handshake is acceptable for men; women should wait for a man to extend his hand first. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food and drink offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it may be considered impolite.

To experience Arar like a local, visit the traditional souks where you can buy local crafts and fresh produce. Engage with the locals; they are often very hospitable and willing to share their culture and traditions. Don't miss visiting the local parks and historical sites, such as the Arar Museum, to gain insight into the region's history and heritage. For a unique experience, try the traditional Bedouin cuisine at one of the local eateries.