Saudi Arabian preserves rich archaeological legacy dating back to pre-Islamic era
Northern Borders governorate hosts ancient heritage sites, including Saudi Arabia’s first registered industrial landmark
TURAIF, Saudi Arabia (MNTV) — Nestled in the Kingdom’s Northern Borders region, the governorate of Turaif stands as a historical crossroads linking ancient civilizations and serving as a northern gateway to Iraq and the Levant.
Turaif is home to a wealth of archaeological and cultural sites, many of which trace their origins to pre-Islamic times, reported Arab News.
Among the most prominent is the site of Qasr Duqrah, located roughly 40 kilometers southwest of the governorate center.
Near Qasr Duqrah lies Mount Aqran — also known as Duqrah Mountain — a site officially cataloged under Saudi Arabia’s Comprehensive Archaeological Survey Program.
According to Zahi Al-Khalawi of the Saudi Historical Society, the area shows evidence of human activity dating back to the Stone Age.
He noted that habitation continued through the Roman era, from the 2nd to 6th centuries CE, and persisted into the early Islamic Umayyad period between 661 and 750 CE.
In addition to its ancient archaeological value, Turaif also houses the Trans-Arabian Pipeline — commonly referred to as the Tapline — one of Saudi Arabia’s most important industrial heritage sites.
The Tapline extends from the eastern region of the Kingdom to its northern frontier, passing directly through Turaif.
It has been officially listed in the National Industrial Heritage Register as Saudi Arabia’s first documented industrial heritage site, symbolizing the early growth of the Kingdom’s oil sector.
Another significant location is Qaru Turaif, a water supply project established in the 1950s by the Tapline Company.
Commissioned under the direction of King Abdulaziz, the water system was instrumental in settling nomadic populations in the area.
Roughly 25 kilometers east of Turaif stands Jabal Umm Waal, a strategic mountain considered the northern entry point to the Arabian Peninsula.
The site is steeped in historical relevance, long serving as a transit route for pilgrims and trade caravans journeying from Iraq and the Levant into the heart of Arabia.
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