Happy TravellerWelcome to Al Zulfi, a city located in the Riyadh Province of central Saudi Arabia. This hidden gem boasts a rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and mouthwatering local cuisine. Join us as we uncover the many treasures of Al Zulfi and reveal why this enchanting destination should be on every traveler’s bucket list.
Location:
Al Zulfi is located in the east of Al-Qassim Province and at the heart of the historical region of Najd. It is roughly 70 kilometers from Buraydah (the capital of the province) and more than 290 kilometers north of the Saudi capital, Riyadh.
History:
Although the location is sometimes identified with an ancient settlement mentioned by Yaqut and Al-Hamadani known as Oryarh, the history of Zulfi proper dates back to the third century. According to the chroniclers of Nejd, during the Pre-Islamic era, the settlement at the site was called zulifit or alkrm (Arabic: الزلفات و الكَرَمُ), and was reportedly founded by the tribe of Banu Hanifa and Banu tmym. Later on, the city went into a long period of decline. The most notable of these were Migrin (or Muqrin) and Mikal, though the name Hajr continued to appear in local folk poetry.
Geography:
Al Zulfi lies in the northern-central region of the Najd and to the south of the Sheayb Samnan (Samnan Valley), which is the longest valley on the Zulfi. It is surrounded by sand dunes to its north and west, which are known locally as the Al-Thoyr Sands. The Al-sabalh Woods are located to the north of the city. Next to Al Zulfi is the Al-Kasar Rain lake (or Bohyrat Al-Kasar), which is considered an official part of the city.
Climate:
Being in the middle of the Arabian desert, Al Zulfi experiences extremely hot summers and relatively cool winters. Humidity is low though throughout the year. The minimum temperature in the summer ranges between 35 and 42 degrees Celsius. The species Bunopus spatalurus spatalurus of the Bunopus genus of small geckos was described in 1991 as being endemic to the area.
Notable Landmarks:
Al Zulfi contains numerous mosques and parks. It also contains a 150-bed hospital and the Palace of Prince Saud bin Abdul-Aziz bin Muhammad bin Saud. The Al Zulfi Governorate contains 2 national parks. Al-Zulfi has three artificial lakes due to the problems of water salinization. Al Zulfi is noted for its many wells and fertile soils, with many thousands of acres of land under cultivation. There are also coal reserves in the area, especially in the northeast near Qasim. The thickness of the deposits ranges from 5 to 50 meters and is spread over a vast area with some 66 coal mines discovered in the Qassim area by the early 1980s.
Renovations and Development Plans:
Among the rebuilt structures are the bath and guest house, the Qasr Nasr, the Nasr bin Saud Palace, and Al Aqlah.
Notable People:
Abdullah al-Tariki – First Saudi oil minister and co-founder of Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC)
Othman Al Omeir – Journalist, editor, and businessman, founder of first daily Arab independent on-line newspaper, Elaph, and former editor of the London-based weekly The Majalla and daily Al Sharq Al Awsat.
Abdulrahman al Rashed – Journalist, editor, general manager of Al Arabiya Channels and former editor of Al Sharq Al Awsat.
Rashid Mohammed Al Fawzan – General manager of CNBC Arabiya and economic analyst and a columnist in Al Riyadh and Al Eqtisadiah newspapers.
Saleh Al Hammadi – Former editor of Alriyadiah Sport Newspaper, sport columnist, and TV personality.
Abdullah bin Abdur-Rahaan al-Ghudayan – religious figure
Abdulrahman Alfuraih – Lawyer and legal consultant.
In conclusion, Al Zulfi is a captivating city that offers a truly unique experience to travelers. With its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and delicious cuisine, it is quickly becoming a must-visit destination for those looking to explore the beauty of Saudi Arabia. Plan your trip today and discover the many treasures of Al Zulfi.
