Top Places to Visit in Hail: Your Essential Travel Guide for 2025

Hail is one of the most sought-after destinations among adventure junkies in Northern Saudi Arabia. The city is known for its rich heritage, rocky mountains and vast desert expanses. From ancient forts to vibrant markets, there is so much to explore in Hail. Whether you are seeking to dive into history, experience outdoor thrill or enjoy Arabian hospitality, Hail promises a journey like no other. In this blog, let’s discover the top places to visit in Hail and everything else that you wouldn’t want to miss out on for an unforgettable journey!

Top 8 Places to Visit in Hail for Every Traveler

Here is a list of the top places to visit in Hail, Saudi Arabia:

1. Qishlah Palace

Also known as Al-Qishlah Castle, Qishlah Palace is a symbol of rich history and urban heritage of Saudi Arabia. It was built in the 1940s during the rule of Prince Abdulaziz bin Musaed Al Saud. The palace was originally built as a military fort and later converted into a prison. The castle is made of mud and stone and features traditional Saudi architecture.

The fort features a basement with 136 rooms, along with 83 rooms used for offices and administration, 53 rooms designed for soldier's quarters and armories, and a mosque built in the traditional Najdi style. This photogenic spot lets you step back into a bygone era and admire the architectural legacy of Hail.

Visit Hours: 8 AM to 6 PM (Daily)

Best Time to Visit: Morning or Late Afternoon

Tips for Visiting Qishlah Palace

• Arrive early in the morning to experience the quiet atmosphere and capture soft light for your photos
• Take a guided tour (if available) to hear fascinating stories about the site that you won’t read in any brochure
• Save time for the small museum inside, which displays antique weapons and uniforms
• Wear comfortable shoes for exploring uneven floors and staircases

How to Reach Qishlah Palace

By Air:
The nearest airport is Hail Regional Airport (HAS), about 10 km from the city center. From the airport, you can take a taxi or book a rideshare to reach the palace in 15 to 20 minutes.

By Road:
Qishlah Palace is easily accessible by road. Visitors can reach it via highways connecting Hail with Saudi cities, such as Riyadh, Madinah and Buraydah. From within Hail, the palace is just a short drive from most central areas and can be reached by private car or taxi.

Public Transport in Hail
While public buses exist, they are limited and routes can be infrequent. Taxis and app-based ridesharing services (like Uber and Careem) are more reliable for visitors.

Car Rentals:
Renting a car is one of the best ways to explore Hail and reach Qishlah Palace at your own pace. Several car rental companies operate at Hail Regional Airport and within the city.

Local Cuisine and Dining Near Qishlah Palace

• Arafa Darbar - This Kerala restaurant is Known for its traditional dishes, such as Chicken Curry Nadan Style, White Rice Plate Meals, and more.
• Al Turathi Restaurant - Known for its warm hospitality and great ambiance, this restaurant serves authentic Saudi dishes.
  
• Eat Well Restaurant - This Indian restaurant serves Kerala food, such as Fried Chicken Biryani and more.
• HABR 7 - People can enjoy delicious burgers, fresh meat and chicken in this restaurant.

2. Jubbah Rock Carvings

Situated around 90 kilometers from Hail, Jubbah Rock Carvings offer a glimpse into prehistoric Arabia. These UNESCO-listed engravings are more than 10,000 years old and show images of camels, humans, and mysterious symbols. They were made by former inhabitants of the area long ago, when the land was greener and had more water. Each of these rock arts showcases the daily life and beliefs of early humans in the region.

Visit Hours:

• Saturday to Thursday – 9 AM to 5 PM
• Friday – 3:30 PM to 8 PM

Best Time to Visit: November to March (Mid-morning or Late Afternoon)

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Jubbah Rock Carvings

• Hire a local guide to explore the best carvings and learn about ancient legends
• Bring plenty of water and sun protection as there are limited facilities
• Visit during mid-morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures
• Do not touch or climb on the engravings

How to Reach Jubbah Rock Carvings

By Air:
The nearest airport is Hail Regional Airport (HAS), about 10 km from the city center. From the airport, you can take a taxi or book a rideshare to reach the palace in 15 to 20 minutes.

By Road:
Qishlah Palace is easily accessible by road. Visitors can reach it via highways connecting Hail with Saudi cities, such as Riyadh, Madinah and Buraydah. From within Hail, the palace is just a short drive from most central areas and can be reached by private car or taxi.

Public Transport in Hail:
While public buses exist, they are limited and routes can be infrequent. Taxis and app-based ridesharing services (like Uber and Careem) are more reliable for visitors.

Car Rentals:
Renting a car is one of the best ways to explore Hail and reach Qishlah Palace at your own pace. Several car rental companies operate at Hail Regional Airport and within the city.

Local Cuisine and Dining Near Qishlah Palace

• Arafa Darbar - This Kerala restaurant is Known for its traditional dishes, such as Chicken Curry Nadan Style, White Rice Plate Meals, and more.
• Al Turathi Restaurant - Known for its warm hospitality and great ambiance, this restaurant serves authentic Saudi dishes.
• Eat Well Restaurant - This Indian restaurant serves Kerala food, such as Fried Chicken Biryani and more.
• HABR 7 - People can enjoy delicious burgers, fresh meat and chicken in this restaurant.

Suggested Read: Best Places to Visit in Saudi Arabia for a Memorable Vacation

3. A’arif Fort

Perched on a hilltop, A’arif Fort is one of the most significant historic sites in Hail, Saudi Arabia. Built in the 17th century, the historic fortress served as a watchtower and defense point against raiders. Inside the fort, you will find rooms, towers, and walls with small windows for watching over the area. This traditional mud-brick architecture is also known for panoramic views of the city and surrounding valleys.

Visit Hours:

• Saturday to Thursday – 9 AM to 5 PM
• Friday – 1 PM to 6 PM

Best Time to Visit: Sunset

Travel Tips for Visiting A’arif Fort

• Plan your visit before the sunset for incredible city views at golden hour
• Weekdays are quieter, allowing more peaceful exploration
• Bring your camera to capture some of the best panoramic shots of Hail from the hilltop
• Ask locals about nearby cafés for a post-visit coffee

4. Al Nafud Desert

No visit to Hail is complete without venturing into the Al Nafud Desert, also known as the Great Nafud. Spanning over 65,000 square kilometers, the desert is known for fiery red dunes, strong winds, and thrilling adventures. Try dune bashing and sandboarding or simply enjoy a peaceful camel ride at sunset. Moreover, the raw beauty of the desert offers incredible opportunities for photographers to capture stunning pictures.

Visit Hours: 24/7

Best Time to Visit: Early morning or sunset

Things to Do in Al Nafud Desert

• Join a 4x4 desert safari for the complete adventure
• Pack a scarf or shawl to protect against windblown sand
• If camping overnight, indulge in a phenomenal stargazing experience using a telescope
• Respect nomadic Bedouin customs during meetings with local herders

Suggested Read: Forts in Saudi Arabia: Exploring the Classical Edifices for a Majestic Fairytale Experience

5. Hail Regional Museum

Opened in 2004, Hail Regional Museum is a cultural landmark that takes visitors on a journey through different eras of Saudi Arabia. Its halls exhibit geology specimens, tools and pottery from before Islam, inscriptions and scripts, traditional clothing, jewelry and cooking tools from across the province. Friendly staff and English signage explain the area’s evolution from a caravan crossroads to a modern Saudi city.

Visit Hours:

• Sunday to Thursday – 8 AM to 8 PM
• Friday – Closed
• Saturday – 4 PM to 8 PM

Best Time to Visit: Weekdays, morning

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Hail Regional Museum

• Check the museum’s events calendar for occasional talks and workshops
• Use the QR code system for self-guided English tours
• Don’t rush the archeology wing, featuring fossils and ancient tools
• Photography is usually allowed but confirmed at the entrance

6. Aja Mountains

Encircling the Hail city, the Aja Mountains (Jabal Aja) are a haven for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and history enthusiasts. These mountains are made of granite and are known for their unique shapes and rocky landscapes. They are also home to many plants and animals, some of which are rare in the region. Here, visitors can enjoy incredible hiking, picnicking, and bouldering opportunities. The winding trails of the mountains are filled with wildflowers, grazing camels, and discoveries related to local culture.

Visit Hours: 24/7

Best Time to Visit: Spring (March to May)

Insider Tips for Visiting Aja Mountains:

• Download offline maps before setting out
• Spring brings beautiful blooms and mild weather, ideal for hiking
• Bring binoculars to enjoy spotting wild camels and birds
• Evenings can get chilly, so pack a light jacket regardless of season

Suggested Read: Desert Safari in Riyadh for an Adventure Experience

7. Al Samraa Amusement Park

For some lighthearted fun, Al Samraa Amusement Park is a popular choice for both kids and adults. Covering over one million square meters, the park offers an exciting blend of rides, games, and food stalls. The park opens till late at night, which makes it an amazing place for families looking to unwind after a day of sightseeing. The cheerful atmosphere and affordable entry make it all the more inviting, especially for families with children.

Visit Hours:

• Sunday to Thursday - 9 AM to 11 PM
• Friday & Saturday - 2 PM to 11 PM

Best Time to Visit: Evening

Al Samraa Amusement Park Travel Tips

• Check the park’s social media for seasonal festivals or food markets
• Arrive in the evening for a livelier atmosphere and pleasant temperatures
• Entry fees are modest, but some rides require separate tickets
• Supervise kids on rides, as safety standards may differ from home

8. Hatem Al Tai Grave

Located in Tuwarin village just outside Hail, the grave of Hatem Al Tai is a pilgrimage site for literature lovers and those seeking to dive into local heritage of Saudi Arabia. Hatem Al Tai was one of Arabia’s most legendary poets in the 6th century, who is remembered for his kindness and generosity even today. It is set in a quiet area surrounded by palm groves. Legend has it that the spirit of Hatem Al Tai continues to linger here, and you’ll feel a special connection to the poetic roots of Hail city.

Visit Hours: 12 AM to 12 AM

Best Time to Visit: Early morning

Things to Do in Hatem Al Tai Grave Things to Do

• Buy a copy of Hatem Al Tai’s poetry to read on-site for a moving literary connection
• Listen to legends related to the poet from the locals
• Enjoy a quiet moment of reflection in peaceful grove around the grave
• Take photos of the site while respecting its spiritual significance

Suggested Read: Best Places to Visit in Medina to Experience Spiritual Awakening

Special Cuisines to Try in Hail

A vacation in Hail is incomplete without tasting its delicacy specialties. We thought of suggesting some must-try cuisines in Hail.

• Keubaibat Hail: A signature dish of Hail, Keubaibat Hail is prepared by stuffing grape leaves with rice or temmen (rice cooked with meat/vegetables) and then cooking them in meat broth. This is available in most restaurants in Hail. Do not miss it.
• Hail Harees: This hearty dish of boiled wheat grains is cooked with meat (often lamb), onions and tomatoes. It’s rich in protein and good for colder weather.
• Temmen: A specialty from Hail, Temmen is prepared by cooking rice with meat and vegetables. This may also include pumpkin when in season.
• Hanaini: This is a dessert-like/simple sweet, usually eaten in winter. It’s made from whole wheat bread mixed with pure ghee and dates until it’s dough-like.
• Khalea: This rich, high-calorie dish is traditionally enjoyed during special occasions (especially in winter). This is prepared by slowly cooking cleaned lamb fat, often with yoghurt or turmeric, to add flavour. This is one of the most preferred foods by travelers in Hail.
• Jareesh: This is crushed wheat cooked with meat, onions and spices. Usually a warm, filling dish.
• Kabsa: It is prepared by cooking fragrant basmati rice with meat (such as chicken or lamb), seasoned with spices, sometimes garnished with nuts and raisins. You should try this in Hail.

Accommodation Options in Hail

Hail is a leading tourist destination in Saudi Arabia. As thousands of travelers visit Hail annually, there’s no shortage of accommodation options. You’ll find hotels and resorts of all types in Hail. To help you, we’ve got a few premium hotel names where you may book a room.

• Millennium Hail Hotel: This 5-star premium hotel in Hail has fully furnished 166 rooms and 17 suites. Set in a convenient location opposite Hail economic city, Millennium Hail Hotel Saudi Arabia offers luxury accommodations and an extensive array of services and amenities. Situated just a 20-minute drive from the airport, this hotel is a favorite among tourists and business travelers in Hail.
• Golden Tulip Hail: This 4-star hotel combines modern amenities with traditional Arabian hospitality. Conveniently situated on Madina Road, adjacent to the STC main office building, the hotel is just a five-minute drive from both the city center and Hail Regional Airport, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking comfort and proximity to Hail’s attractions.
• Holiday Villa Hail: Situated in the heart of Hail city, this 4-star property has 5 specially equipped rooms for guests with disabilities, designed to cater to a range of needs, including mobility impairments, hearing, vision and speech impairments. With a wide array of quality services and facilities, Holiday Villa Hail is an ideal place for business and leisure travelers.

Best Dining Spots in Hail

Here’s a list of the best restaurants to try out traditional Arabian cuisines in Hail.

• Al Fairouz: This restaurant in the Millennium Hotel, Hail, is popular for international cuisines as well as traditional Arabic dishes. It serves the best BBQ & seafood in Hail. You may also grab good vegetarian dishes here. This is a great place if you want something a bit upscale.
• Stars Restaurant: This is a great option to try local and regional dishes in Hail. The restaurant is famous for its ambiance and has a separate family section.
• Al Asalah Restaurant: This restaurant is listed among fine dining options in Hail. This is a great option if you’re looking for something a bit fancy.

Things You Should Know While Visiting Hail

Hail is conservative as a society. It is good to have an idea about the cultural practices before you visit the city. Here’s a list of etiquette you need to consider while in Hail.

• Dress modestly: Men should wear long trousers and shirts. You should avoid sleeveless tops in public. Women must wear loose, long clothes covering arms and legs. A headscarf is appreciated in conservative areas like Hail.
• Greet warmly: Handshakes are common among men using the right hand. Avoid initiating physical contact with women unless they extend their hand first.
• Appreciate the hospitality: Locals may invite you for Arabic coffee (qahwa) and dates and they expect you to accept them with the right hand. Leaving after a short time is acceptable and polite.
• Remove shoes: Shoes are usually removed before entering homes.
• Use your right hand to eat: Eat only with your right hand, as consuming food with the left hand is considered impolite. You should wait for the host to start before eating.
• Be polite in public: You should talk politely in public spaces. Respect personal space, especially with the opposite gender. Topics like religion, politics or criticizing Saudi traditions should be avoided.
• Avoid PDA: Society is conservative, and public displays of affection are not accepted. You should also respect gender segregation in certain public areas.

Travel Tips for Visiting Hail

• Check visa requirements for your nationality and apply accordingly
• Ensure you passport is valid throughout the duration of your visit
• Carry local currency in Saudi Riyal (SAR) for purchases at local market
• Dress modestly and women must carry a scarf for covering head
• Use taxis and ride-sharing apps like Uber and Careem for a reliable commute

Hail is a one-of-its-kind destination in Saudi Arabia, offering a blend of timeless heritage, natural wonders, and warm Arabian hospitality. Whether you are seeking some outdoor adventure, soaking up ancient stories in its palaces and forts, or shopping for souvenirs in the vibrant souks, Hail ensures memories that last a lifetime. Book one of our Saudi Arabia tour packages that take you through the most beautiful places to visit in Hail for an enriching holiday experience. Ready to discover this Saudi gem that’s far beyond just a tourist trail?

Weather and Climate:

Winter (December – February)

Mostly dry with occasional light rain with temperatures ranging between 18-20 degree Celsius. Pleasant for sightseeing during the day; pack warm clothes for evenings and mornings.

Spring (March – May)

Comfortable weather with gradually rising temperatures. Temperature ranges between 24 to 27 degree Celsius in March and 33 to 35 degree Celsius by May, with cool climate at night.

Summer (June – September)

The temperature ranges between 38 to 40 degree Celsius with warm nights during summer. It is advisable to go outside during early mornings or late afternoons. Always carry sunscreen and plenty of water.

Autumn (October – November)

Temperature in October averages from 32 to 33 degree Celsius in a day, dropping to 24 to 28 degree Celsius by November. Slightly more rain than summer, but comfortable for sightseeing and photography.

FAQ's - Places to Visit in Hail