Al-Qassim Emirate

About the Emirate

The Emirate of Al-Qassim was established in 1326 AH during the founding of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It reports to the Ministry of Interior and is headquartered in the city of Buraydah.

Functions of the Emirate

• Representing the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques in the region.
• Ensuring that justice is upheld across the region.
• Maintaining public security in the region.
• Providing public services to residents in coordination with government entities and participating in planning stages for all services.
• Ensuring the efficiency and effectiveness of services delivered to residents, and working to enhance and develop service delivery.
• Receiving citizens’ petitions and complaints, considering their needs, and working to meet their requests and resolve issues.

Vision

A model principality and a region leading economically, developmentally, and environmentally.

Mission

Leading security and development work in the Qassim Region in integration with relevant entities, by providing innovative services, enabling sustainable development, and enhancing quality of life for residents and visitors.

Goals of the Emirate

• Preserve security and public order.
• Deliver government services to citizens.
• Implement development plans and programs.
• Encourage investment.
• Protect the environment.
• Promote cultural heritage.

Regulations and Policies

The Emirate of Al-Qassim is subject to the laws and policies of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, including:

• The Law of Provinces.
• The Civil Service Law.
• The Education Law.
• The Health Care Law.
• The Public Security Law.

Etymology

In classical Arabic, “al-Qasīmah” refers to a level plain rich with trees; it is also a place where ghada, arta, and sidr trees grow on sandy terrain. Al-Qassim is famously mentioned in early poetry—possibly due to its dense vegetation. The region lies near the heart of the Arabian Peninsula, slightly to the north, and its location aligns with historic Hajj routes from the Abbasid era—particularly the “Darb Zubaydah.” Routes from Basra, Kufa, and Baghdad pass through Al-Qassim and converge at its water sources, and many landmarks remain to this day.

Area & Location

Al-Qassim covers roughly 73,000 km² between the Central and Northern regions. Its population is about 1,336,179, of whom 677,647 live in Buraydah, the regional capital, according to the 2022 Saudi Census. The region is known for abundant groundwater and fertile oases that supply the Kingdom and the Gulf with premium dates, vegetables, and fruits. Buraydah is the largest city by area and population and hosts the Emirate’s headquarters.​​

Governorates

The Emirate oversees 13 governorates. Under the Law of Provinces (1412 AH / 1992, as amended in 1414 AH), each emirate comprises multiple governorates in categories (A) and (B), plus a number of centers. The classification reflects demographic, geographic, security, transportation, environmental, and historical considerations. The Emirate includes Buraydah (the seat) and five Category-A governorates—Unaizah, Ar-Rass, Al-Mithnab, Al-Bukayriyah, and Al-Badai’—and eight Category-B governorates: Al-Asyah, An-Nabhaniyah, Ash-Shimasiyah, Uyun Al-Jiwa, Riyadh Al-Khabra, Dhariyah, Uqlat As-Suqur, and Abanat—together comprising 152 administrative centers.