RIYADH — Al-Khabra Boulevard in the Qassim Region has established itself as a key economic and tourism destination, leveraging its strategic location on King Fahd Road (Qassim-Madinah Expressway) to serve as a major stop for travelers and a marketing platform for the region’s agricultural, handicraft and heritage products.
The boulevard, which spans approximately 50,000 square meters, combines commercial activity with tourism and entertainment events, stimulating economic activity and supporting farmers, families working in the cottage industry and entrepreneurs. It features around 160 shops and 40 kiosks, providing a diverse environment for commercial activities, festivals and seasonal events, while giving startups and cottage-industry families outlets to reach a broad segment of consumers.
The project’s design is inspired by Najdi identity and local architecture, with dedicated areas showcasing products, food, handicrafts and entertainment activities, adding a heritage and cultural dimension to the economic and tourism experience.
Al-Khabra Boulevard represents a model for leveraging sites along major roads to support the local economy, market agricultural and heritage products, and enhance tourism activity in the region. It aligns with Saudi Vision 2030 goals to diversify the economy, boost non-oil sectors and promote domestic tourism.
The boulevard is part of a broader network of date festivals and markets across Qassim, which includes the Buraidah International Dates Carnival, Unaizah International Date Season, Al-Mithnab Sukari Red Season, Shaqra Al-Asyah Date Festival, Al-Badaea Date Season, Al-Rass Date Market Season, Al-Bukairiyah Date Season, and the Al-Khabra and Riyadh Al-Khabra Dates Festival.
Qassim Region, home to over 11 million palm trees, continues to strengthen its position as Saudi Arabia’s capital of dates. The region’s status is reflected each year through the organization of the world’s largest dates carnival, which brings together farmers, traders and investors under one roof.
The Al-Khabra and Riyadh Al-Khabra Dates Festival, held on the boulevard, runs for 45 days and features more than 40 date varieties, with the Sukkari variety accounting for 70% of sales in the first two weeks. The festival includes dedicated sections for fruits and vegetables, as well as family entertainment, creating a comprehensive experience for visitors of all ages.
The boulevard also hosts the Al-Nafid Heritage Village, which participates in the festival under the slogan “Legacy of Ancestors… Pride of Sons,” highlighting the importance of heritage and familial pride. The village showcases traditional crafts, cultural performances and historical exhibits, adding a cultural dimension to the economic and tourism experience.
Al-Khabra Boulevard’s strategic location on King Fahd Road ensures easy access for farmers, traders and visitors. Its facilities are designed to handle large volumes of produce and transactions, with dedicated spaces for auctions, sales and ancillary services.
The project is supervised by the Qassim Municipality and organized by the National Center for Palms and Dates, as part of the seasonal markets system. It underscores the vital role of the palm and date sector in the region’s economy and supports the development of small and medium enterprises.
