alqaraya

Al Qaraya is a small town located in the central region of Saudi Arabia, within the administrative boundaries of the Najran Province. The settlement lies at an elevation of approximately 1,200 metres above sea level and is surrounded by semi-arid shrubland typical of the region. According to the latest census conducted in 2018, Al Qaraya has a population of roughly 3,500 residents, predominantly comprising members of the native Juhfdan tribe along with smaller groups of expatriates working in the petroleum and logistics sectors.

The town’s origins can be traced back to the early 20th century when nomadic tribes from the surrounding oases began to establish permanent dwellings along water channels that were used for seasonal irrigation. Over time, Al Qaraya grew into a modest agricultural hub, with date palms and barley forming the backbone of its local economy. In the 1960s, the Saudi government extended a major road network through the area, connecting Al Qaraya to the provincial capital of Najran and facilitating trade in both agricultural products and raw materials extracted from nearby limestone quarries.

Al Qaraya maintains a few basic public services, including a primary school, a health clinic, and a municipal plaza that hosts weekly market stalls. The town is also noted for its traditional pottery and handwoven textiles, which are sold in regional markets and attract tourists interested in authentic craftwork. Although the population has remained relatively stable in recent years, urban migration and the development of infrastructure projects in the wider Najran region continue to influence the town’s demographic and economic trajectory.