Saudi’s Eastern Treasures

📍 Riyadh - Al Ahsa/Hofuf (350 km): 2.20 mins by train

Heading east from the capital into the flat desert. Flat terrain is ideal for trains and the local semi-high speed line takes just over 2 hours to cover the 350 kilometres to Hofuf in the Al Ahsa oasis. Views are far and wide, unless an occasional dust storm passes. Troops of camels roam the lands, herded by a lone rider atop his camel or in a battered pickup truck.

Be welcomed in Al Ahsa, the world's largest oasis, by our local guide. A great contrast with the empty desert is the wholesale fruit and vegetable market, where bulks of onions, melons and herbs find their way from farmers to merchants. Over 3 million date palms form a large green space in the yellow desert as is clearly seen on Google Satellite view. There are over 30 types of dates grown in the region and many types of citrus. Visiting a farm to learn about the process is a must and a peaceful location for a local lunch too. Don’t forget to pick up a freshly baked flat bread made out of whole wheat flour and dates.

From the countryside to town. The old town is quite a small area, best explored on a walking tour. The biggest structure is Ibrahim Palace, a mud brick structure with thick walls that can hold a horse. It looks more like a fort with its armoury and of course a mosque. Surrounding streets are dedicated to all types of merchants; gold, abaya and ‘bisht’ which are types of local dress for ladies and men. Past the huge replica of a city gate is the old market which retains its ancient feel. Narrow alleys house small but well-stocked shops who often have been here for generations.

Overnight in Al Ahsa/Hofuf.

Inclusions:

🥘 Lunch

📍 Al Ahsa/Hofuf - Dammam (150km): 2hrs

Qarah Mountain with its highest point at 240 metres above sea level does not sound spectacular but in this flat terrain you can see it from miles away. It is more like a long flat limestone outcrop and over time water has eroded its sides. Judas Cave and many small canyons are the result and make a picturesque walk from the small museum at the entrance. The lime makes a great base for pottery and fine pieces come from the region. See it done in the small Dougha pottery workshop. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before leaving Hofuf.

After seeing the green of the oasis, let’s now look at the yellow, the Yellow Lake that is. Climb aboard an offroad vehicle and head out into the sands surrounding Al Ahsa. The water source in the oasis is so strong that a lake forms from redundant water. During the hot summers it is smaller but it is always there and home to birds and even fish. Enjoy a drink from atop a sand dune after the 4x4 makes its way up. The setting is ideal for a drink with a view!

Continue further East until the Arabian Gulf near Half Moon Bay. The coast running up to Al Khobar has several seaside resorts and is mostly popular with locals and those working in the oil and gas fields. To get a feel for what tomorrow brings, stop at an unexpected outburst of street art in a residential area near the sea. Young artists have been allowed to get creative and colourful murals line several streets. Onwards, Dammam is the big city of this part of The Kingdom, why not go for a stroll in the evening and meet the locals at the corniche or seafront esplanade.

Overnight in Dammam.

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch

📍 Dammam - Ithra complex via Al Khobar (45km): 1hr Ihtra complex - Dammam airport (35 km): 45 min

Today is dedicated to art and science. A building never to forget is Ithra; the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture, Saudi Arabia's leading cultural and creative destination. Sitting on a hilltop like a giant bunch of pebbles, it houses a theatre, a library, a movie theatre, a museum and exhibition space. The museum has 4 galleries that feature exhibitions of national and international contemporary art and Saudi and islamic cultural heritage. The whole site embodies innovation and knowledge.

On the grounds, the Aramco Energy Exhibit is aimed at sharing information about the oil and gas industry. How does it work, where is it happening, what are alternatives and large models and interactive displays help young and old discover.

Leisure time followed by transfer to the airport, concluding the services. Dammam International Airport offers a wide range of regional, domestic, and international flights. Alternatively, travel to Bahrain via the King Fahd Causeway.

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast