- JEDDAH: The fireplace of Hatim Al-Ta’iy, a pre-Islamic Arab whose generosity has become proverbial in the Arab world, is to be turned into a tourist site in the northern Saudi city of Hail.
An acclaimed poet, Al-Ta’iy is famous for his legendary hospitality and generosity. Even till today, Arabs who wish to compliment a person’s kindness often say, “He is more generous than Hatim.”
Details of the upcoming tourist attraction were announced at a special function to launch Al-Samra Tourist Resort Project held at Aja Palace in Hail on Saturday evening. “Al-Ta’iy’s fireplace will be a tourist landmark in the region and attract tourists,” said Prince Saud bin Abdul Mohsen, governor of the Hail province.
Prince Saud said the SR200 million project will be implemented over three years, adding that the first phase of the project will be completed in the middle of next year. Businessman Ali Al-Faiz, who is financing the project, said the resort will consist of a closed commercial market, a hotel, chalets and restaurants.
He also said a tower in the shape of a flying saucer would be constructed close to the fireplace to draw tourists.
