Qatif City
Qatif
القطيف | |
|---|---|
  Qatif Location in Saudi Arabia | |
| Coordinates: 26°33′06.7″N 50°01′44.8″E / 26.551861°N 50.029111°E | |
| Country |  Saudi Arabia |
| Province | Eastern Province |
| Governorate | Qatif Governorate |
| Region | Eastern Arabia |
| Government | |
| • Body | Municipality of Qatif Governorate |
| • Governor | Ibrahim Al-Khuraif |
| • Mayor | Saleh Al-Qarni[1] |
| Area | |
• Total | 350 km2 (140 sq mi) |
| Elevation | 10 m (30 ft) |
| Population (2022) | |
• Total | 87,332 |
| Time zone | UTC+03:00 (SAST) |
| Postal Code | 31911 |
| Area code | 013 |
| Website | www.qatif.gov.sa |
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Qatif City (Arabic: القطيف) is an ancient city located in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia, along the western coast of the Persian Gulf. As the capital of the Qatif Governorate, Qatif is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the Arabian Peninsula. Its history spans over 5,000 years, Qatif is a vibrant city known for its rich cultural heritage, agriculture, and oil production.[2]
Etymology and geography
[edit]The name "Qatif" is derived from the Arabic root q-ṭ-f (ق-ط-ف), meaning "to pick" or "harvest," referencing its agricultural heritage, particularly in palm tree farming.[3] Geographically, Qatif is situated near the coast of the Persian Gulf, covering an area of approximately 2,000 square kilometers. It enjoys a coastline that stretches over 100 kilometers, providing it with access to rich marine resources.[4]
Economy and agriculture
[edit]Historically, Qatif has been an important center for agriculture, particularly known for its palm date farming, and it continues to be a major agricultural hub in the Eastern Province. The local fishing industry has also been a key part of the economy for centuries. In modern times, oil production has become a significant economic driver, with many residents employed in the industry.[5]
Population and culture
[edit]As of 2022, Qatif has a population of approximately 87,332 people, predominantly Shia Muslims, who are the original inhabitants of the region. The city is rich in Shia cultural heritage, with many historic landmarks such as the Qatif Fort and ancient mosques. Qatif is known for its Shia religious practices and the celebration of key religious events, such as Ashura.[6][7]
See also
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ "Honoring our Security Guards by the Mayor of Qatif".
- ^ "القطيف.. التاريخ والآثار". صحيفة اليوم (in Arabic). Archived from the original on 2018-02-03. Retrieved 2024-05-16.
- ^ "معنى اسم القطيف". Almaany (in Arabic). Retrieved 2024-05-16.
- ^ "جغرافيا القطيف". صحيفة اليوم (in Arabic). Retrieved 2024-05-16.
- ^ "الاقتصاد القطيفي". صحيفة اليوم (in Arabic). Retrieved 2024-05-16.
- ^ "إحصاء سكان القطيف". General Authority for Statistics (in Arabic). Retrieved 2024-05-16.
- ^ "التراث القطيفي". صحيفة اليوم (in Arabic). Retrieved 2024-05-16.