The Saudi Press Agency "WAS" has spotlighted the most prominent and famous tourist attractions in Farasan Islands, making it a destination for tourists and investors due to its unique tourism potential, attractive sites, and historical places. The village of "Al-Qasar," located just 5 kilometers from the main Farasan Island, is one of the important beautiful tourist sites that locals and visitors alike enjoy for its beauty and historical significance. Its heritage buildings surrounded by palm trees attract tourists and visitors annually.
Currently, during the 20th Harid Festival, many visitors from the people of Farasan, Jazan, and other cities and regions, both within the Kingdom and internationally, are flocking to explore the village's heritage and tourist sites, as well as its popular entertainment venues. Visitors to Al-Qasar can experience the heritage of the archipelago through local restaurants, cafes, a marine crafts exhibition, a Farasani heritage museum, and shops selling traditional Farasan products managed by several local families, along with various entertainment and cultural activities accompanying the Harid Festival.
The importance of the village lies in its role as a summer resort, characterized by a mild climate throughout the year, an abundance of palm trees and old trees, and plentiful fresh water available from several wells dug for drinking and irrigation purposes in the village. Notable historical sites in Al-Qasar include the "Abida" Well, located at the northern entrance to the village, as well as several small stores selling the village’s food supplies and a fish market where fishermen bring their catches every morning.
The relative advantage of Al-Qasar lies in its original designation as a summer residence. From the very beginning, locals built their homes in an organized manner, ensuring that more than 400 houses are grouped together within five neighborhoods, separated by pathways no wider than three meters, all connected by a main road running from north to south, passing by the village mosque and the celebration area that hosts events and gatherings for the hospitality of guests throughout their stay.
In Al-Qasar, Farasani residents would celebrate marriages that were postponed for a year until the arrival of the summer season, known as the "Shiddah" season, when water and the fruits and shade of palm trees were plentiful, alongside the village square and homes built with local stones. The roofs were made from wood and palm fronds, with yards decorated using white seashells, known locally as "batāh," covering the entire area around the houses, which were also made of stones embellished with beautiful Farasan carvings.
The "Qandal" forest and "mangrove" trees receive daily visits from those heading to the beautiful islands, known for their stunning tourist sites and bustling marine excursions. Other tourist sites include the "Deer Reserve," "Dana Park," "Al-Hassiss Park," and the "bridge linking Farasan Island to its villages." Visitors to Farasan do not miss the opportunity to visit historical sites on the main island, such as the historic "Al-Rifai House," the ancient "Al-Najdi Mosque," and the "Roman Fortress," among others.
