Nestled in the north of Saudi Arabia, Tabarjal Governorate stands as a vibrant and historically rich region within Al‑Jawf Province. With its fertile lands, growing communities, and increasing investments in infrastructure and education, Tabarjal offers an intriguing blend of tradition and modern development.
In this article we will talk about the general characteristics of Tabarjal Governorate, who lives there, how to reach it, its key attractions and facilities, recent developments, and frequently asked questions about the region.
General Information about Tabarjal Governorate

Tabarjal Governorate is one of the Category B governorates in Al-Jawf Province, situated in the northernmost part of Saudi Arabia near the border with Jordan. The governorate covers a significant area and serves as an important administrative and agricultural hub within the province. It is divided into six administrative centers: Mayqu, An-Nabk Abu Qasr, Al-Busayta, Thaniyah Umm Nakhilah, Al-Thaniyah, and Al-Subayhah, which together support local governance and community services.
Strategically located, Tabarjal shares borders with Al-Qurayyat Governorate to the north, Tabuk Province to the west and southwest, Dawmat al-Jandal Governorate to the southeast, and Sakaka Governorate to the east. Its location along key transit routes enhances its connectivity and economic interactions with neighboring regions.
The governorate’s population consists of a mix of Saudi citizens and foreign residents who contribute to diverse economic activities, including agriculture, trade, education, and public services. This combination of strategic location, administrative organization, and active communities makes Tabarjal a vital part of Al-Jawf Province.
How Far Is Tabarjal from Riyadh by Road?
The main land route connecting Tabarjal to the rest of Saudi Arabia is via Highway 65, which passes through the governorate. Traveling from the national capital Riyadh to Tabarjal by road covers a considerable distance, taking several hours depending on the route.
Because of this long drive, many travelers prefer to fly to the nearest airport and then drive. The closest airport is Al‑Jawf International Airport, located in Sakaka, approximately 218 kilometers from Tabarjal.
Who Lives in Tabarjal Governorate?
As of 2022, Tabarjal Governorate’s population stands at roughly 109,796 residents. The demographic breakdown reveals a mix of Saudi citizens and foreign residents, reflecting both native communities and migrant workers. The distribution across administrative centers indicates a spread of settlements rather than concentration in a single urban core.
The community in Tabarjal includes families engaged in agriculture, education, trade, and public services. The presence of educational institutions and growing infrastructure draws a diverse population contributing to social and economic life.
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What Are the Main Attractions and Facilities in Tabarjal?
Let us now explore some of the key attractions and facilities that make Tabarjal Governorate notable:
Al Jouf University in Tabarjal Governorate

One of the most significant institutions in the governorate is a branch of Jouf University. The College of Science and Arts began operations in the academic year 2012/2013.
The college offers several academic departments including Arabic Language, Mathematics, English Language, Business Management, Physics, and Computer Science, with programs available for both male and female students depending on the specialization. These programs align with modern curricula, keep pace with global academic standards, and match the needs of the labor market in Saudi Arabia.
The presence of this university branch enriches the social and educational landscape of Tabarjal, attracting students and supporting local development through education.
Agriculture and Local Produce

Tabarjal Governorate is renowned for its fertile soil, favorable climate, and abundant groundwater, conditions that make it one of the most productive agricultural areas in Al-Jawf. The governorate is considered part of the breadbasket of the region, supplying fruits and various agricultural products across the Kingdom.
The region frequently hosts events such as the Fourth Fruit Festival, which showcases agricultural products, local handicrafts, and traditional goods, highlighting the strength of the local economy and cultural heritage.
Visitors and residents benefit from fresh produce, green landscapes, and a community deeply connected to farming and agribusiness.
Cultural Life and Community Events
Cultural events like the Fourth Fruit Festival offer a platform for farmers, artisans, and families to engage with the broader community. Such events enrich local life, support small businesses, and help preserve local traditions.
Through access to education, agriculture, community markets, and cultural gatherings, Tabarjal Governorate continues to build a balanced and vibrant lifestyle for its residents
Development in Tabarjal Governorate
In recent years, Tabarjal Governorate has witnessed notable development in infrastructure, public services, and digital connectivity. The electronic transaction system was launched in 2022 as part of the emirate’s digital transformation efforts, enabling faster communication and electronic processing of correspondence and services between the governorate and provincial authorities.
Land transportation remains essential, with Highway 65 traversing the governorate and serving as the main route for travel and the transport of goods between central Saudi Arabia and the northern border regions.
For air travel, residents rely on Al-Jawf International Airport in Sakaka, the nearest major airport to Tabarjal, which facilitates travel to other parts of the Kingdom and international destinations.
These improvements reflect ongoing governmental efforts to enhance living standards, foster economic growth, and integrate Tabarjal more closely with regional and national networks.
FAQs
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about Tabarjal Governorate:
Is There an Airport in Tabarjal Governorate?
No. Tabarjal Governorate itself does not host a dedicated airport. The nearest international airport is Al-Jawf International Airport located in Sakaka, about 218 km away.
Which region is Tabarjal in?
Tabarjal is part of Al-Jawf Province in northern Saudi Arabia.
What is Tabarjal known for?
Tabarjal is known for its fertile lands, rich agriculture, especially fruit cultivation, its growing educational institutions such as the Jouf University branch, and its role as part of the agricultural “breadbasket” of Al-Jawf.
What is the capital of Al-Jawf?
The capital of Al-Jawf Province is Sakaka
How many governorates are there in Saudi Arabia?
Saudi Arabia is divided into 13 administrative regions, each comprising several governorates.
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