Historic Market in Riyadh Al-Khabra Reflects Qassim’s Commercial and Social Heritage

The majlis market in the old Dirah of Riyadh Al-Khabra Governorate, Qassim Region, is a prominent historical witness to the economic and social life of Najdi towns. It was not merely a place for buying and selling, but a commercial hub and a gathering place where residents exchanged news and received visitors from neighboring villages and farms.

 The market sits in the heart of the old Dirah, near a grand mosque, within a traditional Najdi urban fabric. It is roughly rectangular, surrounded by shops, and connected to six small streets.

 Friday was the busiest day, drawing residents, farmers, and Bedouins who came for Friday prayer and then went to the market. Trade covered food, farming supplies, livestock, fruits, vegetables, and local products such as ghee and dried yogurt (aqit).

 Saleh Al-Nafeesa, a resident of the old neighborhood, stressed the importance of preserving what remains of the market and the old Dirah and documenting related oral accounts, photos, and documents for future generations.

 Reviving historic markets promotes cultural and heritage tourism, in line with Saudi Vision 2030 goals of preserving national heritage and diversifying tourism experiences.