Saudi Arabia, officially known as the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, is a sovereign state located in the Middle East, occupying the majority of the Arabian Peninsula. As of the latest available information, Saudi Arabia is divided into 13 provinces, known as “regions” or “emirates” (مناطق in Arabic). Each region is further subdivided into governorates (محافظات), which are administrative divisions smaller than the regions. These governorates vary in number within each region, and they are further divided into sub-governorates or districts (مراكز).
The administrative structure of Saudi Arabia reflects its vast geographical and cultural diversity, with each region having its own unique characteristics, traditions, and economic activities. The regions are governed by princes appointed by the Saudi royal family, who oversee the administration and development of their respective areas.
Here is a detailed overview of the 13 regions of Saudi Arabia:
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Riyadh Region: Located in the central part of the country, Riyadh is both the capital city of Saudi Arabia and the name of the region surrounding it. It is the largest region by both area and population, known for its economic significance as the political and administrative center of the country.
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Makkah Region: Also known as Mecca, this region encompasses the holy city of Mecca (Makkah) and is the most sacred site in Islam. It attracts millions of pilgrims annually during the Hajj pilgrimage. The region is located along the Red Sea coast in the western part of Saudi Arabia.
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Madinah Region: Located to the north of Makkah, the Madinah region is centered around the city of Medina (Madinah), the second holiest city in Islam. It is a significant religious and cultural center in Saudi Arabia.
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Eastern Province: Known as the Ash Sharqiyah region in Arabic, the Eastern Province is the largest province by area. It is located on the eastern coast of Saudi Arabia and is known for its oil production and industrial cities such as Dhahran, Dammam, and Al Khobar.
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Asir Region: Located in the southwestern part of Saudi Arabia, the Asir region is known for its mountainous terrain, cooler climate, and distinctive cultural heritage. It borders Yemen and is known for its agricultural terraces and traditional architecture.
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Tabuk Region: Located in the northwestern part of Saudi Arabia along the Red Sea coast, the Tabuk region is known for its historical significance and natural beauty. It includes the city of Tabuk and borders Jordan.
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Al-Qassim Region: Located in the heart of the Arabian Peninsula, the Al-Qassim region is known for its agricultural productivity, particularly in dates and grains. It is also recognized for its traditional culture and heritage.
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Ha’il Region: Situated in the north-central part of Saudi Arabia, the Ha’il region is known for its historical significance, including the ancient city of Ha’il itself. It is characterized by its desert landscapes and cultural festivals.
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Northern Borders Region: Located in the northern part of Saudi Arabia along the borders with Jordan and Iraq, the Northern Borders region is known for its historical sites and agricultural activities. It includes the city of Arar.
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Jazan Region: Located in the southwest corner of Saudi Arabia along the Red Sea coast, the Jazan region is known for its tropical climate, fertile valleys, and agricultural products such as coffee and tropical fruits.
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Najran Region: Located in the southern part of Saudi Arabia, the Najran region is known for its historical and cultural heritage, including ancient forts and archaeological sites. It borders Yemen and has a distinct cultural identity.
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Al Bahah Region: Located in the southwestern part of Saudi Arabia, the Al Bahah region is known for its mountainous landscapes, cool climate, and agricultural products such as fruits and vegetables.
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Jizan Region: Situated in the southern part of Saudi Arabia, the Jizan region is known for its beautiful coastline along the Red Sea, as well as its agricultural products and traditional architecture.
Each of these regions contributes uniquely to the cultural, economic, and social fabric of Saudi Arabia, reflecting the country’s rich diversity and heritage. The administrative divisions play a crucial role in governance, development planning, and resource management across the kingdom.