Dr. Tenaidhib Al-Faidi

Al-Madina

It is said that Hafr Al-Batin got its name due to a number of wells dug by Abi Mousa Al-Ash’ary, a companion of the Prophet (peace be upon him), during the era of Omar Bin Al-Khattab when Al-Ash’ary became the Emir of Basra in the year 17H.



It is said that Utbah Bin Ghazwan Al-Mazini was the first to write this name in line with the orders of the caliph. However, the name Hafr appeared before that date. The name “Al-Hafr” was mentioned to the Prophet (pbuh) after the Battle of Hunain.



Hafr Al-Batin was famous for the ancient trade routes, as the Al-Hafr land was a passageway and resting place for old Arab tribes that migrated from the south of the Arabian Peninsula and continued their journey to the land of the two rivers (Euphrates and Tigris).



Also, the land of Al-Hafr used to be crisscrossed by ancient trade routes linking the old kingdoms in the north, south, east and west. At the beginning of Islam, Al-Hafr was a route for Haj from Basra to Makkah. There were many landmarks, antiquities and wells on this road. Hafr Al-Batin at present has become one of the big cities of Saudi Arabia. The writer has visited it sometime ago at the invitation of its people to give a lecture. He toured its wide markets and streets. Its people are generous.