Tabuk: The Oasis of History and Adventure

• Helloمرحبا
  [Marhaba]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [Wada'an]
• Yesنعم
  [Na'am]
• Noلا
  [La]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [Min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا
  [Shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [A'ithran]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [Kayfa halik?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [Bikhayr. Wa anta?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [Hal tatahadath al'Inglizia?]
• I don't understandلا أفهم
  [La afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [Aridu an ara alqaimah, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [Ana la aakul allahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [Fi sahtak!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأريد أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [Aridu an adfa', min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [Alnajdah!]
• Go away!إبتعد!
  [Ibta'id!]
• Call the Police!إتصل بالشرطة!
  [Itsal bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!إتصل بطبيب!
  [Itsal batabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت
  [Liqad dalalt]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [Ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أود أن أشتري...
  [Awdu an ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتطلع
  [Ana faqat atatallu]
• How much is it?بكم هذا؟
  [Bikam hatha?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [Hatha ghaali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك تخفيض السعر؟
  [Hal yumkinuka takhfid alsar?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [Kam alsaa'ah?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [Alsaa'ah alwahidah]
• Half past (10)النصف بعد العاشرة
  [Alnisf ba'd al'ashirah]
• Morningالصباح
  [Alsubah]
• Afternoonالمساء
  [Almasa']
• Eveningالمساء
  [Almasa']
• Yesterdayأمس
  [Ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [Alyawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [Ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [Wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [Ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [Thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [Arba'ah]
• 5خمسة
  [Khamsah]
• 6ستة
  [Sittah]
• 7سبعة
  [Sab'ah]
• 8ثمانية
  [Thamania]
• 9تسعة
  [Tis'ah]
• 10عشرة
  [Asharah]

• Where's a/the...?أين...؟
  [Ayna...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [Ma huwa al'ainan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [Hal yumkinuka an tarini (ala alkhariata)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى الحافلة القادمة؟
  [Mata alhafilah alqadimah?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى...)
  [Tadhkirah (ila...)]

Tabuk's history traces back to ancient times, with archaeological evidence suggesting that the area was inhabited as early as 1500 BCE. The region was strategically located on the ancient trade routes, connecting the Arabian Peninsula with the Levant and Egypt. The early inhabitants were primarily nomadic tribes who played a vital role in trade and cultural exchanges.

During the first century BCE, the Nabateans, an Arab people who established a kingdom in Petra (modern-day Jordan), extended their influence into the Tabuk region. They built fortresses and settlements, and their presence is still evident in the ancient ruins scattered across the area. The Nabateans were known for their advanced engineering and water management systems, which helped them thrive in the arid environment.

In the second century CE, the Roman Empire expanded into the Arabian Peninsula, and Tabuk became a part of the Roman province of Arabia Petraea. The Romans built fortifications and roads, some of which are still visible today. This period marked a significant phase in Tabuk's history, as it became a crucial link in the trade routes connecting the Roman Empire with the Arabian Peninsula.

With the advent of Islam in the 7th century, Tabuk gained prominence as a significant location in early Islamic history. The Battle of Tabuk in 630 CE, led by Prophet Muhammad, was a pivotal event. Although the battle did not result in combat, it demonstrated the growing influence of the Muslim community. The Tabuk region also became an essential waypoint for Muslim pilgrims traveling to Mecca and Medina.

In the early 16th century, Tabuk came under Ottoman rule, which lasted for several centuries. The Ottomans established military outposts and infrastructure to secure the pilgrimage routes and maintain control over the region. The Hijaz Railway, constructed in the early 20th century to facilitate the pilgrimage to Mecca, had a significant impact on Tabuk, transforming it into a key logistical hub.

In the 20th century, with the discovery of oil and the establishment of modern Saudi Arabia, Tabuk underwent significant transformation. The city saw extensive development in infrastructure, education, and healthcare. Today, Tabuk is a vibrant city that balances its rich historical heritage with modern amenities, making it a unique destination for travelers.

Tabuk is accessible by air through the Tabuk Regional Airport (TUU), which has connections to major cities in Saudi Arabia and some international destinations. The airport is approximately 20 kilometers from the city center. You can also reach Tabuk by road; it is well-connected via highways from cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Medina. Bus services operated by companies like SAPTCO provide another travel option.

Within Tabuk, you can use taxis, which are widely available and relatively inexpensive. Ride-hailing services like Uber and Careem are also operational in the city. Public buses are available but less frequent. Renting a car is a convenient option if you plan to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace. Ensure you have an international driving permit if you intend to drive.

The official currency in Saudi Arabia is the Saudi Riyal (SAR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops in Tabuk. ATMs are readily available throughout the city. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. Currency exchange services are available at the airport and in major hotels.

Tabuk is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, as with any city, it is wise to exercise 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 vigilance is always recommended.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The local police and medical facilities are efficient and accessible. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in the city for minor health issues where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly. Men and women should avoid wearing revealing clothing. Women are advised to wear an abaya. Religion: Do respect Islamic customs and traditions. Avoid public displays of affection. 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, but note that some conservative individuals may prefer not to shake hands with the opposite sex. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't eat or drink in public during the fasting hours of Ramadan.

To experience Tabuk like a local, visit the traditional markets (souks) where you can buy local goods and handicrafts. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the historical sites such as the Tabuk Castle and the ancient rock art in the region. For a unique experience, explore the nearby Wadi Disah, known for its stunning landscapes and natural beauty.