Al Qurayyāt, Saudi Arabia

Capital City

Living in Saudi Arabia's northernmost commercial hub means dealing with scorching desert climate and just 42mm of annual rainfall - but strategic location has its perks. This border city, just 30km from Jordan, serves as one of the Middle East's most crucial land crossings for both religious pilgrims and commercial trade.

The economy revolves around three pillars: olive cultivation and processing, salt production, and cross-border commerce. Healthcare is adequate for a city this size, with two hospitals including the 350-bed Gurayat General Hospital serving a massive 400km catchment area. Transport links include a domestic airport with flights to Riyadh and Jeddah, plus rail service via Saudi Arabia Railways. The historic Kaf castle, built in 1338 AH as a warship-shaped fortress, stands as the main architectural landmark.