Khamis Mushait: The Jewel of Asir Province

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaban]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wadaeana]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [laa]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [aadhra]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kaifa haluk?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bikhayr. 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-qaimah, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا أأكل اللحم
  [ana la aakul al-lahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtik!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأريد أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [uriidu an adfaa, min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [al-najdah!]
• Go away!اذهب بعيدا!
  [adhhab baedan!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [aitasal bilshurtah!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [aitasal bitabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت
  [laqad dallaht]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أريد أن أشتري...
  [uriidu an ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتفرج
  [ana faqat atafarraj]
• How much is it?كم سعره؟
  [kam siroh?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk khafdh al-siir?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam al-saaah?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [al-saaah al-wahidah]
• Half past (10)العاشر والنصف
  [al-ashar wal-nisf]
• Morningصباح
  [sabah]
• Afternoonمساء
  [masaa]
• Eveningمساء
  [masaa]
• Yesterdayأمس
  [ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [al-yawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [arbaa]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsah]
• 6ستة
  [sittah]
• 7سبعة
  [sabaah]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamaaniyah]
• 9تسعة
  [tisaa]
• 10عشرة
  [asharah]

• Where's a/the...?أين ال...
  [ayn al...]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma huwa al-unwan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuk an tarini (ala al-kharitah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى يأتي الحافلة التالية؟
  [mata yaati al-hafilah al-taliyah?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ...)
  [tadhkirah (ila ...)]

Khamis Mushait, located in the Asir Province of southwestern Saudi Arabia, has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. The region has been inhabited for thousands of years by various tribes, including the Qahtan and Shahran tribes. Archaeological evidence suggests that the area was an important center for trade and agriculture long before the advent of Islam.

With the spread of Islam in the 7th century, Khamis Mushait became a part of the Islamic world. During the Ottoman period, the town saw increased significance due to its strategic location and fertile lands. The Ottomans established administrative control over the region, influencing local culture, architecture, and governance.

The modern city of Khamis Mushait began to take shape in the 20th century. Named after the Thursday market ('Khamis' means Thursday in Arabic), the town grew rapidly due to its strategic location on the trade routes and its fertile agricultural land. The market itself became a focal point for commerce and social interaction in the region.

Khamis Mushait played a significant role during the unification of Saudi Arabia in the early 20th century. It was a site of several key battles and negotiations led by King Abdulaziz Al Saud. The city's loyalty to the Saudi cause helped solidify its importance in the newly formed kingdom.

In the latter half of the 20th century, Khamis Mushait experienced rapid economic growth and urban development. The construction of King Khalid Air Base in the 1960s brought modern infrastructure and increased the city's strategic military importance. The city also became a hub for traditional crafts, including weaving and pottery, preserving its rich cultural heritage.

Today, Khamis Mushait is a vibrant city known for its blend of modernity and tradition. It boasts modern malls, traditional souqs, and cultural centers that celebrate its rich history. The city is also a gateway to the scenic Asir Mountains and the cultural heritage of the Asir region, making it a popular destination for tourists and historians alike.

Khamis Mushait is located in the Asir Province of Saudi Arabia. The nearest airport is Abha International Airport (AHB), approximately 20 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a private transfer to Khamis Mushait, which typically takes around 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can drive from major cities like Riyadh or Jeddah, but be prepared for long journeys exceeding 8 hours.

Khamis Mushait offers various transportation options including taxis, which are readily available and relatively affordable. Car rentals are also available and can be a convenient option for exploring the city and surrounding areas. Public buses are less common, so it is advisable to rely on taxis or rental cars for getting around.

The official currency in Saudi Arabia is the Saudi Riyal (SAR). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are available throughout Khamis Mushait, and you can withdraw cash using international debit or credit cards.

Khamis Mushait is generally considered safe for tourists. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and not displaying valuables openly. There are no specific neighborhoods with high crime rates targeting tourists, but it's always wise to stay vigilant and be aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for police or 997 for medical emergencies. Khamis Mushait has several hospitals and clinics that can handle various medical needs. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are also readily available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Non-Muslims should avoid entering mosques unless invited. Public Transport: Do be respectful and patient. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake if appropriate. Men should avoid initiating handshakes with women unless offered first. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Khamis Mushait like a local, visit the traditional markets (souks) where you can buy fresh produce, spices, and local handicrafts. Engage with locals, who are generally friendly and welcoming. Don't miss visiting the Al-Saud Palace and the Khamis Mushait Museum for a deeper understanding of the local history and culture. For a unique experience, take a trip to the nearby Asir National Park, which offers breathtaking views and outdoor activities.