Saudi Arabia ‘s Eastern Province is an enchanting gateway between the banks of the Arabian Gulf and the golden sands of the desert. It is characterized by a unique cultural and geographical diversity that makes it an ideal destination for tourism throughout the year. Al Sharqiya is home to vibrant cities such as Dammam and Al Khobar, as well as ancient cities rich in history such as Ahsa and Qatif. When you visit, you’ll find a captivating mix of Beaches scenic beaches and landmarks ancient heritagewith activities Suitable for families and individuals alike. Here’s a narrative journey through the highlights of Al Sharqiya that will make you Eager to explore on your own.
We start with Dammam, and among Dammam’s most prominent landmarks Heritage Village It is a museum and restaurant that reflects the lives of Saudis throughout history. Its mud-brick buildings and folk artifacts will take you on a journey through the Kingdom’s different civilizations, with a chance to sample local cuisine in a traditional setting. Shopaholics have a date with Love market located in the center of the town. One of Dammam’s oldest and most famous markets, Souq Al Habab is characterized by its narrow alleys lined with small shops selling gold, perfumes, fabrics, and traditional gifts.
Half an hour’s drive from Dammam, you reach the city of News Elegant, where modernity overlooks the waters of the Gulf. Khobar is characterized by Waterfront The charming, palm-lined walkway is lined with palm trees, at the end of which stands a Water tower as an iconic landmark of the city.
In the morning, you’ll find sports enthusiasts jogging and cycling on the Corniche, and in the evening, families spread out enjoying the sea breeze with a view of the distant lights of Bahrain. Al Khobar is close to the King Fahd Causeway that connects Saudi Arabia to Bahrain, tempting some to make a quick visit to another country in just half an hour!
Al Khobar offers plenty of activities for everyone. The family can spend a fun day at the Saitek Science Center On the Corniche, an interactive center featuring fun science and technology exhibits for adults and children with an IMAX theater and astronomy shows. For shopping and entertainment lovers, Khobar is home to Upscale shopping malls such as Al Rashid Mall, along with Restaurants and Cafes Facade At the Ajdan Walk complex, it’s like a miniature CityWalk on the bay.
with Al-Ahsa We move to a lush oasis that embraces both history and nature. Al-Ahsa is the land of palm trees and the largest palm oasis in the world with an area of more than 85 km² and includes more than 2.5 million palm trees Its groves stretch to the horizon.
It’s no wonder that in 2018, Al-Ahsa was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in recognition of its rich history and unique agricultural heritage. When you visit this oasis, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a green landscape in the middle of the desert. Breathe in the aromas of the orchards as you tour the palm plantations, and maybe even taste the famous Al-Ahsa dates at their origin. Al-Ahsa has an amazing variety of attractions. Continent Mountain It stands tall as a unique geological wonder; its amazing rock formations and cold caves make it an unforgettable adventure for nature lovers and climbers. When you enter one of its caves, you will feel a pleasant coolness and shades of golden sunshine.
from the oasis to the northeastern coast, where Jubail city industrial. At first glance, you might think that Jubail is just a factory town, but it will surprise you with its beautiful waterfront and organization. Jubail is home to a collection of Beaches and parks Carefully manicured, the relaxing experience is as good as any other coastal town. Head to Fnatir Beach The famous beach is characterized by soft sand and an elegant walkway surrounded by greenery and palm trees, where you can have a family picnic, ride bikes, or even barbecue in the designated areas. Nearby is the Palm Beach Offering children’s play areas and refreshment stalls, it is a favorite meeting place for Jubail residents to unwind after a day’s work. Jubail is also characterized by the level of cleanliness and infrastructure, thanks to the management of the Royal Commission for the city. You can see this interest in its parks, such as the Municipality Park or Jubail Corniche Park, where you can see families lounging under the lush trees. For those who love the pristine marine environment, there are Boat mooring from which fishing trips or sea excursions to view the city’s skyline from the sea. After an action-packed day, try one of Jubail’s restaurants, known for serving fresh fish and shrimp from the day’s catch. In Jubail, you’ll feel the unique balance between the spirit of a modern industrial city and the tranquility of coastal nature.
No trip to the Eastern Province would be complete without a taste of its cuisine, which is rich in traditional ingredients. The Eastern Province is known for its abundant seafood dishes that reflect the abundance of the Gulf’s catch, such as Fish and Shrimp Mujboos which is served with rice seasoned with Gulf spices and lemon (lomi). You’ll also find the meat and chicken rice dishes that are popular throughout Saudi Arabia, but with a special oriental twist; for example, the Red Hasawi Rice A highly nutritious local staple, rice is grown exclusively in the Al-Ahsa oasis and is usually cooked with meat or fish to create a hearty and flavorful meal. Don’t miss the Hassawi Tannour Bread The red ones are baked with molasses and spices and served hot with cheese or dessert. Another popular dish is the Groats Creamy wheat flour made from crushed wheat cooked with meat broth, and a dish Porridge in which pieces of bread are immersed in a meat and vegetable broth – a favorite dish in the Orient, especially on occasions. As for desserts, you’ll be captivated by the sweetness of dates, which are included in most oriental sweets, from date-stuffed maamoul to sesame date pudding. In Qatif and the coastal cities, try the The reddish It’s brown rice cooked with molasses and usually served with grilled fish, combining sweet and savory in one bite. And don’t forget to mention that Al-Ahsaian dates A key ingredient in the region’s cuisine, different types of dates are used to prepare traditional dishes and desserts that give energy and satisfy the palate. In short, Saudi oriental cuisine is another journey parallel to tourism, whose flavors and spices take you on a tour through the culture and hospitality of the Gulf people.
