Rafha: The establishment of Rafha Governorate is closely linked to the famous Trans-Arabian Pipeline ‘Tapline,’ launched in 1951 and stretching 1,648 kilometers from the east of the Kingdom to the Lebanese port of Sidon on the Mediterranean Sea. It was considered one of the most significant engineering projects of the 20th century and remains a landmark of development in the national memory.

According to Saudi Press Agency, Rafha Governorate is located in the far north of the Kingdom and is the largest in both area and population in Northern Borders Region. The construction of the pumping station in Rafha attracted Bedouins to settle and work there, marking the beginnings of the city. At that time, it was known as the ‘Pipeline Governorate’ before later being named Rafha, with the pumping station building standing as a symbol of progress and modernity in its era.

The Tapline remains in the memory of the locals, even though most of its structures were dismantled in 2008. Its developmental impact remains evident in the settlement of Bedouins and the emergence of several cities and governorates along its route, including Arar, Rafha, Turaif, and Al-Uwayqilah, which still bear witness to its legacy today.