The Best Travel Guide to Al-Jawf (UPDATED 2024) | ArrivalGuides.com

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Al-Jawf

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Overview

Al-Jawf The guide was updated: 2024-08-12

One of Saudi Arabia's northernmost regions, Al-Jawf (also spelt Al-Jouf) is a treasure ground of historical artefacts and natural beauty. The province's two major tourist routes lie through its rural capital of Sakakah and the ancient town of Dumat Al-Jandal, where most of Al-Jawf's ruins and ancient relics are concentrated. Endless opportunities for exploration, rich cultural heritage, and exotic desert adventures await visitors to Al-Jawf at every turn.

Facts

Population:	595,822 (2022)
Currency:	Saudi Riyal (SAR)
Hotels:	Hotels »
Emergency numbers:	General Emergency: 911 Police: 999 Ambulance: 997 Fire Department: 998
Newspapers:	Saudi Gazette: www.saudigazette.com.sa Al Jazeera: www.aljazeera.com
Opening hours:	The working week is generally from Sun–Thu with some businesses open Saturday mornings. Government offices: 7:30am–2:30pm. Banks: 9:30am–4:30pm.

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Section in Al-Jawf

The province's two major cities of interest are conveniently located only a few kilometres away from each other. Sakakah, the capital, borders Dumat Al-Jandal (an ancient open-air town of ruins) in the north-west. In Sakakah, do not miss the panoramic views from atop Za'abal Castle, and possibly make time for a trip to Dumat Al-Jandal Lake located nearby.

Sakakah City

Sakakah City

Compact rural Sakaka is cut through by its main street which is hard to miss. The street is lined with shops and government offices; the authentic Al-Nusl Hotel is also located here. In the town's north, the ancient fort of Qasr Za'abel is perched atop a scenic cliff; east from here is Jabal Burnus rock with carvings dating back to the 6th century BC.

Dumat Al-Jandal

The ancient town of Dumat Al-Jandal breathes history and is basically one large open-air archaeological site. Its first mention dates back to as early as the 10th century BC. Explore the remains of Al Dar'i Quarter, the ruins of Omar Bin Al Khattab Mosque and the Mard Castle in Dumah.

Rajajil Columns

Rajajil Columns

The mysterious constellation of upright stones (whose origins remain unexplained to date) at the Al-Rajajil archaeological site is one of the region's most popular attractions. Some theories suggest the structures had been used for worship and/or keeping time, but visitors are still left to ponder their true designation.

Zaabal Castle

Zaabal Castle

The ancient fort of Za'abal isn't just an attraction but provides bird's eye views of Sakakah city spread out below. From here, travellers will be able to take in the cityscape dominated by low-rise buildings and palm trees, as well as the historic quarter of Al-Dhel’ below.

Kaf Village

Located in a sulfur-rich area, the village of Kaf draws travellers seeking to make use of the healing properties of sulfur springs abundant in its surroundings. Located around here are the limestone Kaf Palace, the Al-Sa’eedi Castle and a historic stone mosque.

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