It was under the control of different armed movements such as the Ansar Dine and MNLA until January 2013, when French forces liberated the region.

The primary trades of Kidal Region include livestock breeding, craft-making, and commerce.

By the end of 2011, another group of Tuareg rebels, the National Movement for the Liberation of Azawad, were active in the region.

[4] The Movement declared Azawad to be an independent republic in April 2012, with the Kidal region as part of the new (but unrecognised) state.

Though nomadism remains the lifestyle best adapted to the difficult environment of the region, several settlements have emerged at Kidal: Aguel'hoc, Tessalit, and Tinzawatène.