Saudi Hail 2

The historical homeland of The Rashid Royal Family

Hail

See our Saudi Arabia Holidays

The very heartland of Saudi Arabia

A fascinating land of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, beautiful landscapes and historic festivals

Hail sits almost geographically centrally within Saudi Arabia, squeezed between Mount Salma to the south and Mount Shammer to the north. Once the capital of the Arabian Desert, it was home to the famous poet Hatim Al Tai who wrote the story “One Thousand and One Nights” which we would know as Arabian nights. Now, as then, it is a popular stopping point on the pilgrimage to Mecca so it has an important place in the country’s history as well as being one of the most forward looking of the traditional towns. It is especially well known for the Hail International Rally, where all manner of vehicles race through the ancient desert. There is also the Desert Festival, a popular event which celebrates the history and culture of Hail.

At the centre of the city are 3 castles; A’arif Fort, Barzan Castle and Al Qishlab Castle which are well worth a visit. A’arif is most striking of the castles, perched on a cliff overlooking the city with breathtaking views to be enjoyed from the viewpoint. It is also a popular meeting point to see the firing of the iftar cannon which marks the end of the day’s fasting during Ramadan. The souq in the heart of the city is a great place to stroll around and admire the wonderfully fresh and fragrant produce on offer whilst the Haile flea market offers the chance to turn up some treasures from the vocal local market traders.

A visit to Hail offers a chance to explore the surrounding Al Nafud desert, a sea of majestic red sand and home to UNESCO World Heritage rock art sites which date back some 10,000 years. The sites of Jubbah at Jabal, Umm Sinman and Shuwaymis at Jabal Al Manior are some of the most significant petroglyphs in the world and reason to visit Hail on their own. A number of adventure companies also operate in the area, offering experiences such as dune drives, sand boarding and overnight camping in the desert.

Shirley Newman

What can I say….my son and myself had the most wonderful time in Kenya thanks to the first-class itinerary that Ben and Louise put together for us. We spoke with Ben many times to ensure he ‘got it right’. This was our 2nd visit to Kenya, and it certainly lived up to our expectations and memories. Nothing was too much trouble for all the staff; we cannot have been looked after any better. I would highly recommend Far and Wild; they are so knowledgeable and have personally visited the lodges and areas. We are already planning another visit, and we cannot wait.

August, 2025
Elizabeth Spells

I have just returned from the most amazing trip to Tanzania, booked with Far & Wild. Everything went so smoothly from the first time I spoke with them. The planning was great, the itinerary was perfect for us, and the lodges were amazing. We spent 10 nights with an amazing guide, travelling through Northern Tanzania and even got to see the migration, which was a lifetime ambition of mine. This wasn't our first safari, so we were nervous as to how it would compare, but it was spot on. I will certainly be using them again to book our next trip....we're thinking of a relaxing beach stay next time to get over the excitement of safari!

July, 2024
Orla Rhodes

Just back from another amazing F&W organised trip to Namibia with the family (8 adults). Having been there before, Alistair tailored our trip to include our favourite locations and added a new one for us, which we loved.The quality of accommodation and guiding, activities, food and drinks was exceptional throughout. It was good value for the level of luxury we had.

June, 2024
Arnhild Schia

We had a wonderful trip to São Tomé and Príncipe - a small island nation in the Gulf of Guinea with paradise (almost empty) beaches and jungle forest. It was all well organised by Far and Wild and we stayed at a great combination of different types of resorts/hotels. We really recommend this for those who want to experience a pristine destination with few other tourists and friendly and welcoming people. The islands also feel very safe. At Principe, there are no dangerous animals, snakes or whatever, and it was great to be able to hike in the jungle without being very conscious of where to put your hands and feet. Go before everyone else does!

July, 2024
Henri Papenfus

Back home again, basking in the joys of a superb safari. Every aspect you arranged for us, including linking up with Mack Air and Wild Horizons locally to transport us. The choice of camps was ideally situated, comfortable, in good surroundings, and with excellent wildlife on the doorstep and throughout the wider country. The service staff in each looked after us very well, catering was excellent, and the game guides were professional, knowledgeable and helpful. You made us happy, and we recommend you to similar safari enthusiasts with confidence.

June, 2024
AC

Far and Wild went above and beyond to make sure my trip to Zambia was special. I would definitely recommend them and their services to anyone wanting to travel to Africa.

May, 2024
Tiny

Lovely holiday at the amazing Almanara on Galu beach, a beach like no other. Far and Wild excelled themselves from beginning to end of our holiday in beautiful Kenya.... What a country!,

April, 2024
Stodge

Wow! These guys are amazing. Can’t recommend them highly enough. Friendly AND efficient! Sorted out our trip (last minute and lots of different family member needs, sorry!) in record time and everything worked like clockwork. Trip of a lifetime to the Masai Mara. Will be back (and use F&W again!)!

March, 2024
Fiona C

It was a dreamy holiday on the Kenyan Coast - Far and Wild, their efficiency and professionalism allowed us to relax and be the happiest family alive !! We cannot fault them, their care and understanding of what we wanted from a holiday ensured we had the most memorable trip. We will be booking with them again for sure!

March, 2024

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