Najran: Oasis of Culture and Tradition in Saudi Arabia

• HelloMarhaba
  [mar-ha-ba]
• GoodbyeMa'a as-salama
  [ma-a as-sa-la-ma]
• YesNa'am
  [na-am]
• NoLa
  [la]
• Please/You're welcomeMin fadlik
  [min fad-lik]
• Thank youShukran
  [shuk-ran]
• Excuse me/SorryAasef
  [aa-sef]
• How are you?Kayfa halak?
  [kay-fa ha-lak]
• Fine. And you?Jayyid. Wa ant?
  [jay-yid. wa ant]
• Do you speak English?Hal tatakallam al-ingliziya?
  [hal ta-ta-kal-lam al-ing-li-zi-ya]
• I don't understandAna la afham
  [a-na la af-ham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseOhib an ara al-qaeima, min fadlik
  [o-hib an a-ra al-qa-ei-ma, min fad-lik]
• I don't eat meatAna la akul lahm
  [a-na la a-kul lahm]
• Cheers!Saha
  [sa-ha]
• I would like to pay, pleaseOhib an adfa, min fadlik
  [o-hib an ad-fa, min fad-lik]

• Help!Musaidah!
  [mu-sai-dah]
• Go away!Irhal!
  [ir-hal]
• Call the Police!Ittasal bialshurta!
  [it-ta-sal bi-al-shur-ta]
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  [it-ta-sal bi-al-ta-bib]
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  [ta-wa-ja-dtu]
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  [a-na ma-reed]

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  [o-hib an ash-tar]
• I'm just lookingAna faqat atadabbar
  [a-na fa-qat a-tad-ab-bar]
• How much is it?Kam thamanuh?
  [kam tha-ma-nuh]
• That's too expensiveHatha ghalun jiddan
  [ha-tha gha-lun jid-dan]
• Can you lower the price?Hal tastatiu tanzil althaman?
  [hal tas-ta-ti-u tan-zil al-tha-man]

• What time is it?Kam alwaqt?
  [kam al-waqt]
• It's one o'clockAlwaqt wahid
  [al-waqt wa-hid]
• Half past (10)Nisf saa (ashra)
  [nisf sa-a (ash-ra)]
• MorningSabah
  [sa-bah]
• AfternoonBa'du aldhuhur
  [ba-du al-dhu-hur]
• EveningAlmasa
  [al-ma-sa]
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  [ams]
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  [al-yawm]
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• 1Wahid
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• 6Sitta
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  [tis-a]
• 10Ashara
  [ash-a-ra]

• Where's a/the...?Ayna...
  [ay-na]
• What's the address?Maza huwa al'alamat?
  [ma-za hu-wa al-a-la-mat]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Hal tastatiu an turiyanee (ala alkhariTa)?
  [hal tas-ta-ti-u an tu-ri-ya-nee (ala al-kha-ri-ta)]
• When's the next (bus)?Mata alqadim alqadim?
  [ma-ta al-qa-dim al-qadim]
• A ticket (to ....)Tathkara (ila ....)
  [ta-th-ka-ra (i-la)]

Najran, historically known as 'Al-Ukhdood', was an important center of trade and culture in ancient Arabia. It was strategically located on the Incense Route, which facilitated the trade of frankincense and myrrh from southern Arabia to the Mediterranean. Archaeological findings suggest that Najran was inhabited as early as 4,000 years ago, with remnants of ancient settlements, inscriptions, and artifacts offering a glimpse into its rich past.

During the 1st century AD, Najran came under the influence of the Himyarite Kingdom, which was a dominant power in southern Arabia. The Himyarites were known for their advanced agricultural techniques and monumental architecture. Najran thrived as a center of commerce and culture during this period, with its inhabitants practicing Judaism, Christianity, and various Arabian polytheistic religions.

By the 5th and 6th centuries AD, Najran became a significant Christian center. The region was notable for its large Christian community, with numerous churches and monasteries. The martyrdom of Christian leader Al-Harith and his followers in Najran in 523 AD, under the Himyarite King Dhu Nuwas, marked a pivotal moment in the spread of Christianity in Arabia. This event is well-documented in both Christian and Islamic historical sources.

With the advent of Islam in the 7th century, Najran embraced the new faith. The Prophet Muhammad sent a letter to the Christian community of Najran, inviting them to Islam. A delegation from Najran visited Medina and entered into a treaty with the Prophet, known as the Najran Pact, which allowed them to continue practicing their religion while paying a tax. This treaty exemplified the early Islamic principles of religious tolerance and coexistence.

During the 16th century, Najran came under the influence of the Ottoman Empire, which sought to extend its control over the Arabian Peninsula. The Ottomans established forts and garrisons in Najran to protect their interests and maintain order. This period saw the introduction of new administrative practices and military architecture, some of which can still be seen in the region today.

In the early 20th century, Najran played a crucial role in the unification of Saudi Arabia under the leadership of King Abdulaziz Al Saud. The region was incorporated into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in 1934 after a series of conflicts and negotiations. Since then, Najran has experienced significant development and modernization, while preserving its rich cultural heritage.

Najran is renowned for its unique cultural heritage, which includes traditional architecture, crafts, and festivals. The region's distinctive mud-brick houses, known as 'midmakh', reflect its architectural heritage. Local crafts, such as weaving and pottery, are celebrated for their intricate designs and craftsmanship. Najran's festivals, such as the 'Al-Ukhdood Festival', provide a vibrant showcase of its cultural traditions, featuring traditional music, dance, and cuisine.

Najran is located in the southwestern part of Saudi Arabia. The nearest major airport is Najran Regional Airport (EAM), which has flights connecting to major cities like Riyadh and Jeddah. Alternatively, you can fly into King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh or King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah and take a domestic flight to Najran. Overland travel is also an option, with well-maintained highways connecting Najran to other parts of Saudi Arabia. Buses operated by the Saudi Public Transport Company (SAPTCO) can be used for long-distance travel.

Najran has a variety of transportation options. Taxis are readily available and are a convenient way to navigate the city. Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem are also operational in Najran. For those who prefer public transport, local buses are available but may not cover all tourist destinations. Renting a car is a viable option for greater flexibility, and several car rental companies operate in Najran. Be sure to carry your international driving permit if you plan to rent a car.

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

Najran is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it is important to take standard 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 always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings. It is also advisable to stay updated on travel advisories from your home country.

In case of emergency, dial 997 for medical emergencies, 998 for fire, and 999 for police assistance. Najran has several hospitals and clinics that provide emergency medical services. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available throughout the city for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications. Keep a list of emergency contacts handy, including your country's embassy or consulate.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, with shoulders and knees covered. Avoid wearing revealing or tight-fitting clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always dress modestly when visiting religious sites and remove your shoes before entering mosques. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A slight bow of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Najran like a local, visit the traditional markets (souks) where you can buy fresh produce, spices, and traditional handicrafts. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the ancient archaeological sites such as Al-Ukhdood and the Najran Dam. For a unique cultural experience, attend local festivals and events, which often feature traditional music, dance, and cuisine.