city, northern Saudi Arabia, situated in the Northern region at an elevation of 1,854 feet (565 metres). ʿArʿar was developed in the early 1950s by seminomadic people who were attracted by water made available around the Trans Arabian Pipeline (Tapline). Agriculture and livestock raising are the main economic activities. Crops include alfalfa, dates, fruits, and vegetables. ʿArʿar has a technical institute, a hospital, and an airport. Pop. (2004 prelim.) 145,237.