Buraidah
Buraydah
بريدة | |
|---|---|
View of Buraydah | |
| Coordinates: 26°20′N 43°58′E / 26.333°N 43.967°E | |
| Country | Saudi Arabia |
| Province | Al-Qassim Province |
| Area | |
| 1,291 km2 (498.3 sq mi) | |
| • Metro | 15,060 km2 (5,810 sq mi) |
| Elevation | 650 m (2,130 ft) |
| Population (2022 census) | |
| 571,169 | |
| • Density | 440/km2 (1,100/sq mi) |
| • Metro | 677,647 (Buraidah Governorate) |
| GDP (PPP, constant 2015 values) | |
| • Year | 2023 |
| • Total (Metro) | $41.2 billion |
| • Per capita | $57,700 |
| Time zone | UTC+3 (AST) |
| Area code | +966 |
| Website | www |
Buraydah or Buraidah (Arabic: بريدة) is the capital and largest city of Al-Qassim Province in north-central Saudi Arabia. Renowned as the agricultural capital of Saudi Arabia and often referred to as the food basket of the Kingdom, the city has a diverse agricultural output. It is especially famous for its date production, hosting one of the largest date markets in the world. In addition to dates, Buraydah produces a variety of fruits and vegetables, including figs, strawberries, grapes, and pomegranates.
The city is experiencing rapid economic growth, driven by infrastructure development, urban expansion, and increased investment in agriculture and logistics. Between 2018 and 2024, the number of commercial registrations in the Al-Qassim region surged by 14.5%, reaching 77,900 by August 2024, reflecting a vibrant increase in economic activity.
In 2021, Buraydah was recognized by UNESCO as a Creative City in Gastronomy, becoming the first Gulf city and the second Arab city to receive this designation.