Khamīs Mushayṭ

Khamīs Mushayṭ, city, southwestern Saudi Arabia. It is situated about 17 miles (27 km) northeast of Abhā. Khamīs Mushayṭ is located inland in a mountainous region with fertile soil. It is traditionally a commercial centre; the name Khamīs (“Thursday”) signified the Thursday market of the Mushayṭ clan. The establishment of army and air force bases to the south brought rapid expansion to the city. Aside from the city’s military importance, agriculture represents a major aspect of the economy, the main crops being wheat, rice, coffee, and henna. Pop. (2004 est.) 372,695.