A Travel Guide for Experiencing the Best of Al Qassim

Al Qassim, a place that provided the best dates to over 74 countries and about which poets have written, is often overlooked by tourists. It is well-known for trade and agriculture because of its products, which include dates, cereals, and vegetables. However, what makes Al-Qassim Province an unmissable destination in Saudi are its stunning scenery, historical sites, and rich cultural legacy that enthrall tourists.

The province is Saudi Arabia's most affluent area per capita and is situated in the nation's center, close to the Arabian Peninsula's geographic center. In this blog post, Saudi Immigration Services will help you delve into the unique beauty of Al Qassim, which makes it an attractive place in Saudi Arabia.

1. Where is Al Qassim located?

Al Qassim is situated in the central part of Saudi Arabia, occupying a strategic location between the country's western and eastern regions. It is bordered by Riyadh to the south, Hail to the north, and the Eastern Province to the east. With a central position, Al Qassim has contributed to its historical significance and economic development of the region. The area still has a lot of groundwater, which contributes to its high agricultural productivity and is among Saudi Arabia's greenest areas.

Al Qassim is known for its natural resources and agriculture

How to Reach Al Qassim?

Al Qassim to Jeddah

The distance between Al Qassim province and Jeddah is approximately 865 kilometers (~537 miles). Travelers can reach Al Qassim from Jeddah, the gateway to the holy cities of Mecca and Medina, by various means of transportation. The most convenient option is by air, with domestic flights connecting King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah to Prince Nayef bin Abdulaziz Regional Airport in Al Qassim.

Al Qassim to Dammam

It is about 790 kilometers (~490 miles) from Al Qassim to Dammam. For those traveling from Dammam, the capital of the Eastern Province, there are direct flights available from King Fahd International Airport to Prince Nayef bin Abdulaziz Regional Airport in Al Qassim. Alternatively, travelers can opt for a scenic road trip, enjoying the sights along the way.

Al Qassim to Riyadh

The distance between Al Qassim and Riyadh is approximately 390 kilometers (~236 miles) when traveling by road. The journey from Al Qassim to Riyadh is easily accessible by both air and road. Domestic flights operate regularly between King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh and Prince Nayef bin Abdulaziz Regional Airport in Al Qassim. Additionally, a well-maintained highway connects the two cities, making it a comfortable drive through the picturesque desert landscape.

2. Al Qassim Weather

Al Qassim weather is characterized by hot summers and mild winters. During summer, temperatures can soar, often exceeding 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). In the winter months, the weather is pleasantly mild, with temperatures ranging between 10 and 20 degrees Celsius (50 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit).

Al Qassim weather is characterized by hot summers and mild winters

When to visit Al Qassim?

The ideal time to travel to Al-Qassim is winter, the most beautiful time of year. It lasts from December to March, marked by chilly weather and occasional rain.

One of the finest things to do in Al-Qassim, Saudi Arabia during the winter is to go camping in the desert since temperatures dip to less than 10 degrees at night and reach 20 degrees during the day. Other winter activities include picnics in the country's picturesque farms, public gardens, and parks. Due to the chilly weather, you may still visit historical buildings and locations throughout the day, but you should always have your coat and scarf on hand, especially at night.

Spring is also one of the greatest times to visit Al-Qassim since the land is covered with crops. The daytime temperature is moderate, with evenings being a bit colder.

3. What is Al-Qassim Known For?

Qassim Province is famous for producing an enormous amount of dates, Al Qassim, in addition to wheat, grapes, lemons, oranges, pomegranates, and a broad range of vegetables. More than 200,000 tons of dates are exported annually, and there are reportedly over eight million palm trees in the area. Following the harvest season, an annual date festival is held in the capital city of Buraydah. This 35-day festival features a variety of premium date kinds and other date items that draw significant numbers of customers and visitors from the GCC region and other nations.

Fun fact about the Qassim province: Al Qassim is frequently called Saudi Arabia's "alimental basket" because of its enormous agricultural output. Additionally, the region hosts various festivals yearly, with over a hundred events. When visiting Al Qassim, visitors can easily come across some intriguing events, no matter what time they come.

Qassim Province is famous for producing an enormous amount of dates

4. The Best Things To Do In Al-Qassim: Consider These Attractions For A Memorable Trip

Explore Al-Shinanah Tower

An extraordinary architectural feature is found in the Qassim Province, southwest of Al-Rass. The thin silhouette of a watchtower is perched atop a tiny hill at the edge of the desert. The Al-Shinanah Tower, an exquisite 27-meter-tall mud-brick tower, is a magnificent example of Qassim's traditional architectural legacy that has been conserved to this day.

It is uncertain when the Al-Shinanah tower was constructed. There are suggested dates spanning from the 12th to the early 19th century, which means this structure is at least 200 years old. Al-Rass was frequently the site of battles between tribes, Ottomans, and Arabs due to its strategic importance in controlling the Arabian Peninsula's center. Surprisingly, the tower withstood all of these fights unscathed, and its continued existence to this day is likely evidence of its significance, as both sides would have wanted to retain it after the war.

Visit Al-Oqilat Museum

The best way to learn about the culture of a region is by visiting its museums and historical sites. When visiting the Al-Oqilat Museum, you will have a great opportunity to delve into the history and culture of the Al-Qassim region during your stay.

The Al-Oqilat Museum conserves historical artifacts chronicling the last 100 years or so of Al-Qassim Province. The proprietors of this private museum acquired unique artifacts and vintage automobiles to preserve the history and legacy of the region for future generations. They also have a deep interest in folk heritage.

In addition, the museum also reveals the contribution of Al-Oqilat tribes to the diverse culture of Al-Qassim today. Through their historical excursions, the tribes contributed to the spread of Saudi culture to the nations they visited for commerce. Along with more than a hundred paintings chronicling the Al-Oqilat families' history, the museum also contains numerous manuscripts and letters that were exchanged between the Al-Oqilat families and King Abdul Aziz, the founder of Saudi Arabia, during that time.

Al-Oqilat Museum in Qassim 

Seek Local Items In Al-Majlis Traditional Market

An unmissable thing to do in Al-Qassim is go to Al-Majlis traditional market, which takes visitors on a historical tour through stores that sell local products. Daily auctions of antique items, including serving and cooking equipment, artifacts, incense burners, grain and coffee grinders, and ancient household tools, are also held at the market. While wandering around the market, you may see the ancient tradespeople plowing and pumping water from wells. They will even perform charming folk tunes to show you how they do it.

6. Al Qassim Prayer Time:

As a predominantly Muslim region, Al Qassim follows the Islamic tradition of five daily prayers. Local mosques announce the call to prayer, known as the "Adhan," signaling the time for prayer throughout the day. Visitors are encouraged to observe and respect these religious practices during their stay in Al Qassim.

In conclusion, Al Qassim is a captivating destination for travelers to explore the blend of tradition, natural beauty, and warm hospitality in the heart of Saudi Arabia. From exploring ancient forts to engaging in intriguing festivals, Al Qassim welcomes travelers to immerse themselves in its cultural tapestry and create cherished memories. Let's apply for a Saudi visa today and prepare to enjoy a journey of memorable experiences that linger in your hearts.