From views of the sea to cultural and culinary experiences, the Eastern Province is waiting to be discovered.
Saudi Arabia has been making waves in the world of tourism, and it’s not holding back. With some of the world’s biggest events happening across the Kingdom, Saudi Arabia is fast becoming a top tourist destination. While AlUla, Jeddah and Riyadh have seen the most footfall, don’t overlook the Eastern Province. With cities like Dammam, Dhahran, and Khobar seamlessly connected, it’s the ideal spot for a quick weekend getaway.
The Eastern region holds a special place in the hearts of locals. Residents from Riyadh often hit the road for a weekend coastal getaway, and you can spot these weekend warriors on Thursday evenings as they rush to escape the hustle and bustle of the capital.
Here’s our curated Eastern Province itinerary featuring food, arts, culture and tourist attractions.
Where to stay
Just like Riyadh and Jeddah, the Eastern Province boasts some of the best hospitality brands for a comfortable stay. The enormous Grand Hyatt Al Khobar Hotel & Residences, conveniently linked to Rashid Mall, is perfect for families. Additionally, Le Méridien Al Khobar, InterContinental Al Khobar, and voco Al Khobar are all close to prime entertainment spots, ensuring easy accessibility, especially if you’re keen on avoiding traffic. Plus, with Nobu Hotel Al Khobar and The Ritz-Carlton Khobar opening soon, the Eastern Province will likely become a firm favourite — if it isn’t one already.
Where to eat
For a sushi lover’s paradise, make a beeline for the FACT award-winning Nozomi. It’s where Japanese cuisine reaches its peak. Just nearby, Hellenika sets the stage for a delightful Greek dining experience that feels like a Mediterranean escape. But that’s not all – brace yourself for a sea-view dining adventure at Oriya, where the waves dance to your meal. If you crave a fusion of Asian flavours, Takara is the spot you don’t want to miss. And for all Instagram enthusiasts, Rosalie Cafe, nestled within the Grand Hyatt Al Khobar Hotel and Residences, is a visual feast.
Head over to Ajdan Walk, which is Khobar’s answer to Dubai’s City Walk. Here, you’ll stumble upon a food lover’s paradise with an abundance of dining options and cosy coffee shops to satisfy your every craving. An Em Sherif Cafe will open here very soon, giving you another reason to visit this beautiful waterfront locale.
Things to do
There’s no shortage of things to do in the Eastern region. Spend your day at the beach, followed by a barbecue in the park. Explore the Heritage Village in Dammam, a prominent tourist attraction that offers insights into Saudi civilisation, both past and present.
Alternatively, immerse yourself in culture and creativity at Ithra, the King Abdulaziz Centre for World Culture. With a museum, theatre, library, idea lab, cinema, academy, and dining spots such as the FACT award-winning Jon & Vinny’s, you might not want to leave. Don’t forget to bring a book. You can exchange it for a new one at Ithra’s kiosks, free of charge.
Day trips
While day trips to nearby cities or villages are common, did you know that another country is just a 30-minute drive away? That’s right, the Kingdom of Bahrain is connected to Al Khobar via a 25-kilometre causeway, making for a quick and easy day trip due to its small size.
When to visit
If you’re seeking beachside fun, plan your visit during the summer months. But consider visiting in late October through November for a more comfortable and enjoyable experience. The weather is cooler during this time, and you can relish the sea breeze without breaking a sweat. Chilly sunrises and sunsets add a touch of magic to your stay.
Getting there
From the UAE, several flights go to Dammam’s King Fahd International Airport, including Emirates, flydubai, flynas, and Saudia Airlines, offering daily travel options. If you prefer road trips, Dammam is just an eight-hour drive from Dubai or a four-hour journey from Riyadh.
Getting around
Given the limited public transportation options, we recommend either taking a taxi, Bolt, Careem, Uber or renting a car for convenient travel within the region.
Whether you seek relaxation on the beach, cultural enrichment, or delightful dining experiences, Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province has it all.
GO: Visit www.visitsaudi.com for more information.