Ancient temples in what used to beMidian, nowadays the province of Tabuk
The history of Tabuk province dates back to 3,000 B.C.E. The province is identified with the land ofMidian.[4][5] The province is traversed by theHejaz railway, which was built during theOttoman Empire under the SultanAbdul Hamid II and was a focus for attacks during theArab Revolt of 1916–1918.[6] The province has traditionally been inhabited by theHuwaytat tribe.
In recent years, the province has received substantial media attention due to the Saudi government's plannedNeom City project in the province.[7]
Tabuk Province comprises six governorates, withTabuk City serving as the seat of the province. The governorates are categorized into Category A and Category B based on the availability of services.
Tabuk is an active commercial center, serving pilgrims passing through towards Mecca. Due to its moderate climate, it's also the site of several dairy and poultry farms. The region (Astra) exports flowers to Europe, mainly lilies, statices and gladiolas.[9] In the past, anarrow-gauge railway (1,050 mm / 3 ft 511⁄32 intrack gauge) ran fromDamascus toMedina through Tabuk. Remains of the railway can be found in Tabuk, where a large station was built. The station has since been restored.[10]
Technical and vocational education in the region is managed by theTechnical and Vocational Training Corporation (TVTC). Colleges for male students include Umluj Technical College, Tabuk Technical College, Haql Technical College, Al-Wajh Technical College, and branches in Tayma and Duba. For female students, the Technical College for Girls in Tabuk offers vocational training.
Tabuk Province is served by several airports that provide domestic and international air links:
Prince Sultan International Airport inTabuk City serves as the main airport of the province. It handles both civilian and military operations and offers regular domestic flights along with limited international services. The airport has seen a 25% increase in flight operations, reflecting the region’s growth and alignment with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 transportation goals.[14]
Tabuk Province shares two international land border crossings withJordan, supporting both regional trade and religious tourism.
TheDurra Border Crossing connectsHaql in Tabuk Province toAqaba in Jordan. Established in 1966 and upgraded in 1988, it facilitates pedestrian and vehicular movement and offers full immigration and visa services.[17]
^Sabri, Sharaf (2001).The house of Saud in commerce : a study of royal entrepreneurship in Saudi Arabia. New Delhi: I.S. Publications.ISBN8190125400.OCLC47863742.
