The history of Hail dates back to prehistoric times passing through the pre-Islamic age and then Islamic era. It was one of the most secured sites in the Arabian Peninsula and neither Al-Hira kings in Iraq nor the Ghassanid kings of Levant could overtake Hail until the Kingdom's unification in 1351H (1932). Hail is a multi-cultural province; it joins the Assyrians and Babylonian cultures as is indicated in the Talmudic and Safvid inscriptive rocks and stones. These rocks and stones are now important tourism attractions. Hail has always been synonymous with the legendry character Hatim Al-Tai known for his extreme generosity. It is also associated with the historic pilgrimage routes, used by pilgrims and trade caravans. Hail region is hub to many poets and literati, and was visited by famous European explorers throughout the 19th and 20th centuries. Apart from this, Hail is known for its strategic location since it connects the north to the northeast and travelers from all over the Kingdom pass by Hail on their way to Makkah. This explains why Hail is called the land of generosity, hospitality and the land of culture and heritage, wherever you go in Hail you can find what you are looking for. It contains different historic monuments including a great urban heritage represented in unique traditional houses and places with attractive designs. The region consists of four major administrative centers, including three cities and Hail which is the center of the province. It is also rich in traditional handicrafts and industries. Traditional souqs and shops reflect the customs and traditions of Hail society which finds its roots on the genuine Islamic principles. There are several traditional markets in Hail that sell lots of tradional items such as the Dallah (coffee pot), incense burners and many traditional handicrafts. The region is also familiar for its famous traditional dishes such as the cookie (clayjah) and Hail red pepper, mint and many other popular traditional dishes. Hail is also endowed with beautiful natural sites represented in the mountains, deserts and the botanical and zoological life, although animals are rare in many areas. There are some caves, craters and beautiful plateaus with great scenery and soft breeze. It is also known for producing carpets and rugs that are made of local material such as sheep wool and camel hair. The handicrafts and products of traditional industries are sold at the productive families shows which are meant to give an idea to the tourists, citizens and residents about the handicraft products of these families. It is also meant to encourage these families and artisans to showcase the heritage of the region. Another objective to be added is that the income they generate from selling of the traditional products contributes to the region's socioeconomic development.
