Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province encompasses everything from the shallow waters of the Arabian Gulf to the lush palm-lined hills of Al Ahsa Oasis and beyond into the desolate plains of Rub’ Al Khali. Once a nexus for commercial activity, as it bridged the major civilizations of the Levant, Mesopotamia, and India, today’s region is mainly known for its oil and gas production via Aramco. However, centuries prior, it was an important inland route for merchants, who transported frankincense, incense, and other goods from historic Yemen to more prominent empires.
The Eastern Province (Arabic: al-Mintaqah ash-Sharqīyah), also referred to as the Eastern Region, is the easternmost province of Saudi Arabia and is the largest in the area and third most populous after Riyadh and Mecca. Its capital Dammam is the sixth-largest city in the kingdom. The current governor is Prince Saud bin Nayef Al Saud. Other cities in the province include Hofuf, Mubarraz, Hafr al-Batin, Jubail, and Khobar.
Tourists love visiting this region for its beaches on the Persian Gulf and its closeness to other Arab countries such as the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Bahrain – connected by the 25 km King Fahd Causeway. It also borders Oman. This province is bordered to the west by Northern Borders, Ha’il, Qassim, Riyadh, and Najran – from north to south.
Saudi Arabia has a long and rich cultural history. However, it is discovered in a remote part of the world. Ancient Arabia had contact with many other civilizations, including Egypt, Syria, Iraq, the Roman Empire, and the Byzantine Empire.
The state’s foundation and legitimacy are linked to Islam, which has a long history with Arabia. Muslims believe that Allah sent Muhammad his final revelation, the Koran, in Arabic. This took place first in Mecca and then in Medina around 622 CE. By Muhammad’s death in 632, most of the communities in Arabia had pledged loyalty to him as a political leader and accepted Islam. Ancient Arabia was home to several complex cultures and societies and was the first place to domesticate the dromedary camel. By 1000 B.C.E., camels were an important part of the caravan trade.
Camel raisers in desert Arabia could not survive independently and depended on farmers in the region’s oases for food and resources. The Bedouin people offered protection to farmers and craftspeople in return for tribute, and market exchange was also common. The output of nomadic and sedentary producers was marketed locally, and in the eastern province, camels and horses were traded in the East Province through long-distance trade.
Saudi traditions are a unique blend of Islamic teachings and Arab customs. Saudis learn about these traditions from their families and in school and observe them throughout the year. The year’s highlight is the holy month of Ramadan, in which Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. This month culminates with the Eid-Al-Fitr holiday when buying presents and clothes for children, visiting friends and relatives, and exchanging gifts are customary. One highlight of Saudi life is the Hajj season when millions of Muslim pilgrims come to Makkah.
The season concludes with the Eid Al-Adha holiday when it is traditional for relatives to slaughter a sheep in memory of Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son. Arab traditions play an important role in Saudi life. These traditions have evolved over the millennia and are highly regarded. They include generosity and hospitality, which every Saudi family offers to strangers, friends, and family. The simplest expression of hospitality is coffee.
The Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia is a must-see for tourists visiting the region. With stunning natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural attractions, this province offers something for everyone. Highlights include the UNESCO World Heritage Site at Madain Saleh, the stunning coral reefs off the coast of Al-Lith, and the ruins of Dir’aiyah, the old capital of Saudi Arabia. A visit to this province will provide an unforgettable experience!
The city of Jeddah, the second largest city in Saudi Arabia, is renowned for housing the burial site of Eve, known as ‘Grandmother’ because it is translated to Jeddah in Arabic. The tomb has been interesting since IbnJubayr wrote of it in his 12th century travelogues. Despite Prince Faisal’s attempt to prevent idolatry by destroying a part of the cemetery in 1928 and sealing it with concrete in 1975, it still stands today, measuring 130m long, 3m wide, and 6m high.
This idyllic village in the Bidah Valley of Western Saudi Arabia has all the hallmarks of an ancient paradise. Little has changed since the settlement began in the 8th century CE, with its stone houses encircled by three sides of mountains. Even before King Abdul Aziz unified the Kingdom and became a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it was known for its many tribal battles. Named after a water spring coming from the nearby mountains, Zee Ain is one of the top destinations in Saudi Arabia.
If Dune Bashing Safari isn’t already on your list of Arabian adventures, you know what you have to do: get yourself a new list! Dune Bashing is an adrenaline-pumping experience across the desert sands found in abundance in the region. Let your experienced guide take you through an off-road mud and hill driving journey – sit back and enjoy the ride! It’s honestly one of the most exciting activities you can do in the desert.
Around 250 kilometres away from Ta’iflies Al Wahbah, a volcanic salt crater measuring 780m deep and 6.9km in diameter. The maar crater was created by a massive explosive reaction between magma and water beneath the surface. It’s covered with a thick layer of white Sodium phosphate crystals. An ancient legend tells of how it came to be. Before this crater existed, two mountains, Tamia and Cotton, stood alone on the horizon.
Think of the moment from ‘Pride and Prejudice’ when Lizzy Bennet stands at the cliff’s edge, reflecting on her life. The ‘Edge of the World in Riyadh is the Saudi version! It’s surrounded by golden desert sands and has uninterrupted views of the horizon. Visiting this geological wonder should be on your to-do list in Saudi Arabia – it’s one of the top attractions there. You could make a fun game out of it, trying to spot dried river beds or fossils while going to the ‘window.’
Saudi Arabia is the motherland of some of the most beautiful natural sites globally. UNESCO has identified six of these spots as World Heritage Sites; they show the country’s cultural importance to the world. When planning a trip to Saudi Arabia, visit these six UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
If you’re looking for one of the world’s largest rock art complexes, Hima is a must-see in the southwest mountains of Saudi Arabia. It’s on a historical trading route and includes 34 archeological sites, with carvings in several languages, including Arabic, Greek, Thamudic, and Musnad. Get a fascinating insight into the history and diversity of this region by admiring the impressive carvings depicting hunting, animals, and more!
Experience the awe-inspiring remains of the ancient Nabatean tribes in AlUla, Saudi Arabia. Take a trip back in time at Hegra, where you will find 131 rock-cut tombs with ornamental façades carved into sandstone outcrops. Spend a pleasant afternoon here on your holiday and admire the architecture of this mysterious lost civilization.
Take a trip to Diriyah and explore Al Turaif, the ancestral home of the Al Saud family that dates back to the 15th century. See what remains of the mud-brick houses constructed in the Najdi style architectural style, which has been around for thousands of years. Witness how this old trading route, a pilgrimage route, and a meeting point for merchants from Europe, Asia, and Africa look today.
Ahsa is a remarkable desert oasis that the Guinness World Records has declared the largest, self-contained one in the world! This 6,000-year-old oasis is a snapshot of Saudi Arabia’s archeological and natural splendour, from its hot and cold springs to its historic mosques and stunning views.
The core of Jeddah is the ancient old town, Al-Balad. Here, one can find 500-year-old houses built with coral, and their unique history and architecture have recently started drawing tourists from around the world. As per the regional folklore, Al-Balad may even be the final resting place of Eve.
If you’re ever in the northern Hail region of Saudi Arabia, you must check out the ancient rock art in the middle of the desert! Jabal Umm Sinman in Jubbah has inscriptions that date back 7,000 to 9,000 years ago – right to the Pottery Neolithic period! It’s some of the most prominent Neolithic rock art in the Middle East, with various inscriptions and petroglyphs that show us how people dressed, animal life, and weapons from long ago.
Explore the lesser-known treasures of Saudi Arabia, from the surreal landscapes of Al Wahbah Crater to the ancient city of Madain Saleh, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of this enigmatic kingdom while discovering remarkable archaeological sites, untouched natural wonders, and charming villages.
Al Rajajil known as Saudi Arabia’s Stonehenge, translates to “the men.” These rock formations, some standing upright and others seemingly toppled over, are arranged in clusters of four or five with no identifiable pattern. While there is no concrete evidence of the purpose of these formations, some sources say that they date back about 5,000 years and may have been used for astronomical purposes. Pretty amazing!
Have you heard of the lesser-known Al Qasab Salt Flats? They are situated less than 200 km from Riyadh. How can there be salt in a desert? Well, it is thought that the area used to be submerged in water many thousands of years ago! The amount of salt here is so impressive that it’s still collected for use within Saudi Arabia today. When you visit, you can learn about the extraction process, but seeing a white “snow” sea in the middle of the sand is amazing.
Known as the Black and White Volcanoes due to the color of their lava, these volcanoes erupted less than 1500 years ago. They are situated north of Madinah, with JabalAbyad (the White Volcano) being the tallest volcano in all of Saudi. Walking on an ancient lava flow would be an incredible experience – a sight that can even be seen from space! An absolute must-see for the adventurous traveler.
Reaching an impressive height of 1800 metres, the Fifa Mountains are sometimes poetically referred to as the “neighbours of the moon” or “heavens of the earth.” These incredible mountains, situated close to Jazan, are lush and green – creating a breathtaking illusion that they’re almost touching the clouds. Plus, with mild year-round weather, it’s perfect for visiting and harvesting a range of produce.
Not too far from Taif lies this hidden gem of Saudi Arabia – a volcanic crater. It’s hundreds of feet deep and can be spotted from space! Scientists believe an underground volcanic eruption created it. Feeling adventurous? Try some hiking and see if you can reach the bottom – just be prepared for the climb back up! Don’t forget to take loads of photos – nothing quite like the view!
A famous personality in the east province is Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founder and first President of the United Arab Emirates. Sheikh Zayed was widely respected for his leadership, vision, and dedication to the promotion of social and economic progress in the region. Here are some of the famous personalities:
The Prophet Muhammad was born in 571 A.D. in Mecca, Hejaz, Arabia, and died in 632 A.D. He is an influential figure in Arab history. He is best known for founding the religion of Islam, which is the second-largest religion in the world. God is believed to have chosen Muhammad to spread the teachings of other prophets, such as Adam, Abraham, Moses, and Jesus. In addition, Muhammad is said to have received divine revelations from God that are recorded in the Quran.
As the King of Saudi Arabia, Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud is an important political figure born on December 31, 1935, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. He served as the Minister of Defense from 2011 to 2015, and before that, he was the Governor of Riyadh Province twice, from 1956 to 1960 and from 1963 to 2011.
The Crown Prince, defence minister, and deputy prime minister of Saudi Arabia, Mohammed bin Salman was born on August 31, 1985, in Jeddah. He launched the Vision 2030 program and removed the ban on female drivers. However, he is known as an autocratic ruler who brutally assassinated journalist Jamal Khashoggi.
Mohammed bin Salman
Khalid ibn al-Walid was an Arab Muslim army general born in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, in 592 AD and died in 642 AD. He played an important role in the Ridda Wars against Arab rebels and campaigns against the Sasanian Empire in Iraq and the Byzantine Empire in Syria.
East Province, Saudi Arabia, is home to some of the most fascinating and culturally significant destinations in the entire Gulf region. No matter what your interests are, East Province has something for everyone.
Traditional Festivals in East Province are a vibrant celebration of cultural heritage and community spirit. One of the most popular festivals is the Bwiti Ceremony, which is steeped in religious significance and commemorates the ancestors. These festivals are a great way to experience the richness of East Province’s cultural heritage:
The Janadriyah National Festival is one of the biggest celebrations of Saudi Arabia’s culture and heritage. This festival lasts for two weeks and includes various activities, like folklore art shows, camel races, and other cultural events.
This is a great year to plan a visit to Saudi Arabia, to explore the new three-month Riyadh Spring Festival. This mega event will occur from October 15 to December 15 all around Riyadh. The festival will host more than 100 different events that will take place across 12 main areas in the city, hosting seven different themes.
The Buraidah Date Festival is the perfect place to learn about everything date-related. From manufacturing and processing to byproducts like molasses, dough, sugar, jam, and chocolate, the festival offers something for everyone. And with more than 30 varieties of dates on offer, you’re sure to find your new favourite. The festival takes place over three months, starting in August.
The Sharqiah Season Festival is one of the biggest cultural festivals in Saudi Arabia, hosting a variety of international artists, traditional events, film screenings, and sporting events. The 10-day event is a great way to explore and celebrate Saudi Arabia’s heritage and culture.
Food items in East Province are known to be delicious and diverse, reflecting the vibrant culture of the region. Some of the popular dishes in the province include bami, a noodle dish typically served with meat and vegetables, and nasi kuning, a fragrant yellow rice dish.
Kabsa is a rice dish that is very popular in Saudi Arabia. The dish is made with meat and vegetables, and the chefs in Saudi often use dried fruits and nuts in their preparations. Kabsa is a great way to experience the flavour of Saudi cuisine, so we suggest you grab a spoon and dive into this delicious dish!
Flat dumplings are a traditional Saudi dish that is usually cooked and served in a stew with meat, vegetables, and spices. This rich and flavorful dish is a favorite amongst Saudis and can be easily found in most parts of the country. If you want to explore some new and traditional cuisine, flat dumplings are a great place to start!
Madfoon is a popular dish in Saudi Arabia that is usually made with meat, rice, and spices. It is cooked underground for hours, which gives the rice and meat a mild taste and smooth texture. Madfoon is comfort food for many Saudi households because the recipes have been passed down from generation to generation.
Qursan is a mouthwatering dish usually served as a side dish to complement the main course of lamb and vegetables. It includes thin layers of fresh bread dipped in gravy. This dish is filling and comforting food for many Saudi households. The rich flavors of this preparation make it a must-try dish!
One of the oldest recipes in the world, these ancient cookies are winning hearts all around Saudi. These date-filled cookies taste super fresh, and they, quite literally, first crumble and then melt in your mouth! Often served with tea/coffee in Saudi households, Maamoul is low in sugar but is known for its robust taste. So make sure you get your hands on these!
Although Dammam and Al Khobar, the oil-rich cities on the coast, are where most people go shopping in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province, there are other treasures to be found inland in the ancient oasis of Al Ahsa. Also, you can watch potters create traditional clay sculptures and purchase everything from mandi cooking pots to mabkhara incense burners.
The Share Al Hob market, which is located in Dammam and is comprised of a network of winding lanes and fountain-filled plazas, is the most atmospheric place to shop. It’s name comes from the abundance of gold and jewelry stores that line its outer streets. Nighttime brings the market to life as the aromas of spices and perfume fill the air.
Another fascinating local experience is the Dammam Souq, sometimes referred to as the women’s market. It is a 17,500 sq. m. collection of jewelry, handicraft, and clothing businesses, as well as traditional booths that are primarily run by women.
When it comes to contemporary commercial centers, Dammam and Al Khobar , its urban seaside neighbor, are adequately served.
Global retailers including H&M, Mango, and Next are located in the ship-shaped Al Othaim mall, which is also home to a large food court and a children’s amusement park.
The dining area of the circular, glassy Marina Mall offers views of the sea across the Dammam Corniche.
The Rashid Mall in Al Khobar is home to hip international fashion companies including Adidas and Dutch fashion label Scotch & Soda. It is designed around a beautiful central water feature.
The Souq Al Qaisariya, another historic market in Al Ahsa, occupies a 7,000 square meter space with clay-brick buildings and winding lanes that give the impression of a fortified palace. More than 400 wooden-shuttered stalls house vendors who sell a variety of items, including colorful teapots and chests, prayer beads, abayas, yashmak veils, incense, and freshly made blades from a street of blacksmiths.
The Al Said cafe at the northern end of the market sells one of the region’s favorite foods in addition to vacuum-packed dried fish and shrimp, which are frequently consumed with a spicy dip. While being largely accepted that the souq was constructed in 1822, some historians contend it actually dates back 600 years.
Holiday Inn & Suites Al Jubail, an IHG Hotel offers lodging with an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a fitness center, and a restaurant. It is located in Al Jubail and is 4.2 km from Deffi Park. One can stay a maximum of days here and each day had a different menu, so an extremely pleasant breakfast.
At Hafr Al Baten, the SAS Hotel offers a restaurant, fitness center, communal lounge, and terrace. There is a bar at this 4-star hotel.
The Grand Day features a bar and is located in Al Hofuf. Room service, a concierge service, free Internet throughout the hotel, and room service are just a few of the amenities offered at this establishment.
At Hafr Al Baten, Aber City Center offers free Internet and city views. The hotel includes accommodations for families. The hotel was brand-new, spotless, conveniently situated, and cozy.
Residence Inn by Marriott Dammam offers lodging with an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a fitness center, and a shared lounge. It is located in Dammam, 18 km from Dhahran Expo. The staff here is courteous and very helpful.
Dana Rayhaan by Rotana, located in Dammam, provides concierge services, allergy-free rooms, a patio, free WiFi access throughout the resort, and a restaurant, and is 18 km from Dhahran Expo. A great hotel with helpful personnel, and a great position.
Villa Misk Alkhobar offers air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, free private parking, and room service. It is conveniently located in the heart of Al Khobar.
Cloud 9 is a hotel in Hafr Al Baten that has a bar. A 24-hour front desk, room service, and free WiFi are just a few of the amenities offered at this establishment. Along with this, the hotel has a large smart TV in its rooms and a large refrigerator and a very cozy bed.
In advance of the formal debut in the near future, the Eastern Province Mayoralty began a trial run of the public transportation bus service in the area.
Buses for public transportation will run between Dammam, Al-Khobar, Dhahran, and Qatif. For the public transportation service, a total of 85 completely furnished and equipped modern buses will be used.
There will be daily journeys planned from 5:30 in the morning until 11:30 in the evening, lasting a total of 18 hours. The buses will travel a total of 400 kilometres over a network of connecting key railways. With 212 stations, the majority of the core areas in the four cities will be covered. The buses will hold 81 passengers and include unique accessibility features for those with impairments.
