Qassim winter season: Heritage, desert adventures drive regional tourism surge

Qassim Winter Season: Heritage and desert adventures drive regional tourism surge. (SPA)
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Updated 23 January 2026
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Qassim winter season: Heritage, desert adventures drive regional tourism surge

  • Ministry of Tourism, regional authorities upgrading infrastructure

RIYADH: The Qassim Region is experiencing a significant winter tourism surge, offering a diverse array of heritage and recreational activities that align with Saudi Vision 2030’s goals.

The Qassim winter season features interactive programs in traditional markets and heritage villages, alongside desert adventures in the Nafud area, including off-road cycling, horseback riding, and fully equipped family camps, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Rural tourism has become a focal point of the region’s appeal, with local farms offering visitors hands-on experiences in harvesting and traditional bread making, all featuring traditional hospitality.

To support this growth, the Ministry of Tourism and regional authorities are actively upgrading infrastructure and service quality to meet the rising demand from domestic and international travelers.

The seasonal activity underscores Qassim’s role in diversifying the national economy and solidifying the Kingdom’s position as a year-round sustainable tourist destination.


Saudi and New Zealand foreign ministers discussed Mideast situation

Updated 10 March 2026
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Saudi and New Zealand foreign ministers discussed Mideast situation

RIYADH: Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan discussed the current situation in the Middle East with New Zealand’s Foreign Minister Winston Peters, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Peters expressed New Zealand’s condemnation of Iran’s indiscriminate attacks on the Kingdom and thanked Riyadh for its efforts to protect foreign nationals, including New Zealanders inside the Kingdom.
The Saudi military has shot down numerous missiles and drones fired by Tehran toward the Kingdom since the US and Israel began a large-scale military campaign against Iran on Feb. 28.
The Saudi Defense Ministry said early Tuesday that it had shot down a ballistic missile in the Eastern Province after knocking out several drones targeting the Shaybah oil field in the Empty quarter on Friday evening.