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Al-Bid'

A Historical Oasis Rich in Antiquities and Cradle of Civilizations

Tabuk

Al-Bid' Oasis, historically known as Midian, represents one of the most important archaeological oases in Wadi 'Iqal. It combines fertile agricultural land with Nabataean, Coptic, and Islamic archaeological sites, making it a prominent station in the history and culture of the northwest Arabian Peninsula.

Al-Bid' Oasis is situated in the heart of Wadi 'Iqal, characterized by the availability of water and its fertile agricultural lands. It was an important station on the Egyptian Hajj (pilgrimage) route, containing ruins that reflect the continuity of life and civilizations across the Nabataean, Coptic, and Islamic eras.

Its most prominent archaeological sites include:

Magha'ir Shu'ayb: Located 4 km south of Al-Bid', this site contains tombs carved into the sandstone rock dating back to the Coptic period, with facades featuring detailed Nabataean and Assyrian decorations.

Al-Malihah: It is archaeological mounds located east of Magha'ir Shu'ayb, containing foundations, walls, and Nabataean buildings constructed precisely using carved limestone blocks.

Al-Malqatah: Located on the eastern bank of Wadi 'Iqal opposite Al-Malihah, it contains archaeological mounds surrounded by the remnants of a mud wall on a stone foundation, in addition to a stone pool. Fragments of Islamic pottery and glass, Kufic inscriptions, and coins dating back to the Fatimid era are scattered on its surface.

Sa'idni Well: This is a Nabataean well carved into the rock, which had an internal staircase, adjacent to pools and water channels that were restored during the Mamluk and Ottoman eras to serve pilgrims passing through the area.

Today, Al-Bid' Oasis has transformed into a distinctive archaeological site, offering visitors an opportunity to learn about the history of the Nabataean, Coptic, and Islamic civilizations, and to enjoy the natural agricultural beauty of the oasis amidst the fragrance of history and the splendor of the desert.