Hail: The Gateway to Saudi Arabia's Majestic North

• HelloMarhaba
  [Mar-ha-ba]
• GoodbyeMa'a salama
  [Ma-a sa-la-ma]
• YesNa'am
  [Na-am]
• NoLa
  [La]
• Please/You're welcomeMin fadlik
  [Min fad-lik]
• Thank youShukran
  [Shuk-ran]
• Excuse me/SorryAfsah
  [Af-sah]
• How are you?Kaif halak?
  [Ka-if ha-lak]
• Fine. And you?Tamam. Wa ant?
  [Ta-mam. Wa ant]
• Do you speak English?Hal tatakallam al-ingliziya?
  [Hal ta-ta-kal-lam al-ing-liz-i-ya]
• I don't understandAna la afham
  [An-a la af-ham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseOreed an ara alqaima, min fadlik
  [O-reed an a-ra al-qai-ma, min fad-lik]
• I don't eat meatAna la aakol lahama
  [An-a la a-kol la-ha-ma]
• Cheers!Fi sahetak!
  [Fi sa-he-tak]
• I would like to pay, pleaseOreed an adfa, min fadlik
  [O-reed an ad-fa, min fad-lik]

• Help!Musaid!
  [Mu-said]
• Go away!Ijai!
  [I-jai]
• Call the Police!Itsal bilshurta!
  [It-sal bil-shur-ta]
• Call a doctor!Itsal biltabib!
  [It-sal bil-ta-bib]
• I'm lostAnaa daa'i
  [An-aa daa-i]
• I'm illAna mareed
  [An-a ma-reed]

• I'd like to buy...Oreed an ashtar...
  [O-reed an ash-tar]
• I'm just lookingAna faqat atadabbor
  [An-a fa-qat a-ta-dab-bor]
• How much is it?Kam hatha?
  [Kam ha-tha]
• That's too expensiveHatha ghali jiddan
  [Ha-tha gha-li jid-dan]
• Can you lower the price?Hal tastatia tasfiyat althaman?
  [Hal tas-ta-ti-a tas-fi-yat al-tha-man]

• What time is it?Kam alsaa?
  [Kam al-saa]
• It's one o'clockAlwahida
  [Al-wa-hi-da]
• Half past (10)Nisf ashr
  [Nisf ash-r]
• MorningSabaah
  [Sa-baah]
• AfternoonDhuhran
  [Dhu-hran]
• EveningMasaa
  [Ma-saa]
• YesterdayAmis
  [A-mis]
• TodayAlyawm
  [Al-yawm]
• TomorrowGhadan
  [Gha-dan]
• 1Wahid
  [Wa-hid]
• 2Ithnayn
  [Ith-nayn]
• 3Thalatha
  [Tha-la-tha]
• 4Arbaa
  [Ar-baa]
• 5Khamsa
  [Kham-sa]
• 6Sitta
  [Sit-ta]
• 7Sabaa
  [Sa-baa]
• 8Thamania
  [Tha-ma-ni-a]
• 9Tisaa
  [Ti-saa]
• 10Ashara
  [A-sha-ra]

• Where's a/the...?Wayn al...
  [Wayn al]
• What's the address?Shuwa alwasia?
  [Shu-wa al-wa-si-a]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Hal tastati' an turiyani (alakhariyra)?
  [Hal tas-ta-ti an tu-ri-ya-ni (al-akh-a-riy-ra)]
• When's the next (bus)?Mata huwa alqaadim (bas)?
  [Ma-ta hu-wa al-qa-dim (bas)]
• A ticket (to ....)Tathkira (ila ....)
  [Ta-th-ki-ra (i-la ....)]

The region of Hail has been inhabited since ancient times, with archaeological findings suggesting human activity dating back to the Paleolithic era. Rock carvings and ancient artifacts found in the area indicate that it was a significant center for early human settlement and trade in the Arabian Peninsula.

Hail is associated with the Thamudic civilization, an ancient people who lived in the northwestern part of the Arabian Peninsula. The Thamud were known for their rock-cut architecture and inscriptions, many of which can still be seen in the mountains surrounding Hail. These inscriptions provide valuable insights into the language, culture, and daily life of the Thamudic people.

During the 7th century, Hail became part of the Rashidun Caliphate, marking the region's integration into the rapidly expanding Islamic world. The caliphate's influence brought significant cultural and religious changes, and Hail became an important stop for pilgrims traveling to the holy cities of Mecca and Medina.

In the 19th century, Hail rose to prominence under the rule of the Al Rashid family, who established the Emirate of Jabal Shammar. The emirate became a powerful state in central Arabia, with Hail as its capital. Under the leadership of rulers like Muhammad ibn Abdullah Al Rashid and his successors, the region experienced a period of political stability, economic prosperity, and cultural development.

One of the most significant historical events in Hail was the Battle of Hail in 1921, which marked the end of the Emirate of Jabal Shammar. The battle was fought between the forces of the Al Rashid family and the Saudi forces led by Abdulaziz Ibn Saud. The defeat of the Al Rashid family led to the incorporation of Hail into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, solidifying Ibn Saud's control over the region.

Hail is known for its rich cultural heritage, which is celebrated through various festivals and events. The Hail International Rally, an annual motorsport event, attracts participants and spectators from around the world. The city's traditional crafts, such as weaving and pottery, are also showcased during cultural festivals, highlighting the unique artistic traditions of the region.

In recent years, Hail has undergone significant modernization and development, transforming into a vibrant urban center. The city boasts modern infrastructure, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities, while still preserving its historical landmarks and cultural identity. Hail's strategic location and rich history continue to make it an important hub in Saudi Arabia.

Hail is located in the north-central region of Saudi Arabia. The nearest airport is Hail Regional Airport (HAS), which has domestic flights from major cities such as Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam. International travelers can fly into King Khalid International Airport (RUH) in Riyadh and then take a domestic flight to Hail. Alternatively, you can travel by bus or car from Riyadh, which takes approximately 7-8 hours by road.

Hail has a network of taxis and rental car services available for getting around the city. Public buses are also available but are less frequent. For shorter distances, you can use ride-hailing apps like Uber or Careem. Exploring on foot is possible in the central parts of the city, but for visiting historical sites and attractions outside the city center, renting a car is recommended.

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 and markets. ATMs are readily available throughout Hail, so withdrawing cash should not be an issue.

Hail is generally a safe city for tourists. However, it is always wise to take standard safety precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 999 for police, 997 for ambulance, and 998 for fire services. Hail has medical facilities and pharmacies where you can get assistance for health issues. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Most hospitals in Hail have staff who speak English.

Fashion: Do dress modestly. Men should avoid wearing shorts in public places, and women should wear loose-fitting clothes that cover their arms and legs. A headscarf is required for women in public. Religion: Do respect Islamic customs and traditions. Avoid public displays of affection and refrain from eating or drinking in public during Ramadan. Public Transport: Do be respectful to fellow passengers. Eating and drinking are generally not allowed on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. Use the right hand for giving and receiving items. Eating & Drinking: Do try local foods, but don't use your left hand for eating or passing food. It is considered impolite.

To experience Hail like a local, visit the traditional souks (markets) where you can buy local crafts and spices. Engage with locals; they are often friendly and willing to share stories about their culture and history. Don’t miss the annual Hail International Rally, a major event attracting participants from around the world. For a unique experience, visit the A'arif Fort and the Qishlah Palace to delve into the rich history of the region.