Ha’il’s local markets and street food spots offer an authentic glimpse into the city’s rich Bedouin heritage and culinary traditions. Visitors can explore bustling souqs filled with fresh dates, spices, and traditional snacks, all served with warm hospitality and a desert backdrop.
1. Souq Al Tamooh
Why visit: The main traditional market in Ha’il, famous for spices, dates, and handmade crafts.
Highlights: – Colorful spice stalls – Fresh local dates – Traditional textiles and souvenirs
Timing: 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Entry: Free entry; snacks ₹100–300
2. Street mutabbaq vendors near Al Tamooh
Why visit: Enjoy freshly made mutabbaq, a stuffed savory pastry, a favorite evening snack.
Highlights: – Meat, egg, or vegetable fillings – Crispy, hot, and budget-friendly – Popular with locals
Timing: 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Entry: ₹150–300 per piece
3. Al Souq Al Arabi
Why visit: A lively market selling traditional Saudi snacks, sweets, and beverages.
Highlights: – Sambusas, luqaimat (sweet fried dough) – Arabic coffee stalls – Local date varieties
Timing: 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Entry: Free entry; snacks ₹100–350
4. Tasting laban and fresh dates at Al Aqiq Market
Why visit: A great spot to sample laban (buttermilk) paired with sweet dates, refreshing after shopping.
Highlights: – Locally made laban – Multiple date varieties – Casual, open-air setting
Timing: Morning and early evening
Entry: ₹100–200 (approx.)
5. Food stalls at Ha’il Winter Festival
Why visit: Seasonal stalls offer local dishes and festival snacks during the popular winter event.
Highlights: – Grilled meats, kabsa, sweets – Family-friendly atmosphere – Cultural performances
Timing: Evenings during festival (December to February)
Entry: ₹300–600 per plate
6. Al Reem Street Shawarma and grills
Why visit: Popular street food area with shawarma, grilled chicken, and quick snacks.
Highlights: – Juicy shawarma wraps – Charcoal-grilled meats – Budget-friendly and fast
Timing: 6:00 PM to 12:00 AM
Entry: ₹200–400 per wrap
7. Dates and spice shops near King Abdulaziz Square
Why visit: A hub for premium Saudi dates, nuts, and aromatic spices for take-home gifts.
Highlights: – Sukkari, Ajwa dates – Sumac, saffron, cardamom – Friendly vendors offering samples
Timing: 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Entry: Free entry; prices vary
8. Traditional coffee stalls at Al Jamea district
Why visit: Experience authentic Saudi coffee (qahwa) brewed with cardamom, served with dates.
Highlights: – Freshly brewed qahwa – Cozy seating – Social gathering spot
Timing: Morning to evening
Entry: ₹100–200 (approx.)
9. Local bakeries around Al Muthana area
Why visit: Small bakeries offering fresh flatbreads, pastries, and sweet treats like baklava.
Highlights: – Warm flatbreads and manakish – Sweet and nutty desserts – Perfect for takeaway
Timing: 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Entry: ₹150–300 per item
10. Outdoor food trucks at Wadi Al-Dawasir Park
Why visit: Weekend food trucks offering a mix of grilled meats, sandwiches, and local snacks.
Highlights: – Varied menu – Family-friendly park setting – Live music on weekends
Timing: 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM (weekends)
Entry: ₹300–600 per meal
Feature Image Credit - Photo by Rabah Al Shammary on Unsplash
