The Sea, The Sights and… The Seafood? Discover Saudi’s East Coast
If you talk to those in the know, you’ll probably hear that Saudi’s East Coast powered Saudi Arabia into the modern world — and yeah, that’s true. But this place is so much more than industry. We’re talking dreamy beaches, chill seafronts, the biggest palm oasis on Earth, and reddish dunes straight out of sci-fi (shoutout to the Empty Quarter). Oh, and the food? Absolute fire.
Officially called the Eastern Province, it’s the largest of Saudi’s 13 provinces and home to four of its biggest cities. It’s also sits between the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman, while facing the Arabian Gulf, making it one of the Kingdom’s most visited and diverse regions. Long before skyscrapers and espresso bars, the fertile land and easy access to Asia made this area a hub of trade and farming. Archeologists have the receipts, too, with evidence of human settlement dating all the way back to the Stone Age!
The sights
The beating heart of the Saudi East Coast lies between Dammam and Al Khobar, two big cities with some protagonist energy. About as big as San Diego or Liverpool, these urban hubs are rich in cultural identity, with young, diverse populations and booming economies, and landscapes, culture, and coastline like no other:
- Al Ahsa Oasis – The World’s Biggest Palm Oasis
Near the city of Al Hofuf, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a lush paradise in the heart of the desert, home to over 2.5 million date palms and a dazzling network of natural springs. The farmland here has sustained civilizations for thousands of years, making it one of the most culturally rich parts of the country.
- Al Qarah Mountain – A Natural Wonder
Rising from the Al Ahsa landscape, Al Qarah Mountain is famous for its unique rock formations and cool limestone caves, which have offered shelter since prehistoric times. A climb to the top pays off with panoramic views of Al Ahsa Oasis below.
- Ithra – Culture Meets the Cutting Edge
A symbol of Saudi Arabia’s urban design glow up, Ithra is a hub for art, history, and creativity. Its striking architecture houses a world-class museum, library, theater, and ever-evolving exhibitions from Saudi and around the world. Ithra really is an architectural love letter to science, culture, and progress. You can read more about Ithra and other Saudi museums here.
- Half Moon Bay – An East Coast Gem
A favorite seaside escape less than forty minutes’ drive from Al Khobar. Half Moon Bay is known for its soft golden sands and calm, crescent-shaped waters. Perfect for swimming, jet skiing, and family get-togethers, it’s been a great place to kick back for generations.
- Al Khobar Sea Front – The Beating Heart
The Khobar Corniche has stunning Gulf views with chill cafés, walking trails, and plenty of grassy spots to picnic. Whether you’re taking a sunset stroll or enjoying fresh seafood by the waves, this waterfront promenade is a must-visit.
Pro tip: Catch the sunset with the super-famous duck and cat duo, a friendship for the ages!
The tastes
You already know Saudi cuisine slaps, but the East Coast puts its own spin on things — mostly by throwing in top-tier seafood. Here’s the short list of stuff you’ve got to try:
- Hassawi rice – Rare, red rice from Al Ahsa Oasis that’ll put a bit of dent in your wallet. Lowkey bougie, but you only live once
- Balaleet – Sweet and savory noodles topped with an omelet. Different? Yes. Delicious? Also, yes
- Muhammar – Molasses rice and spiced fried fish = chef’s kiss
- Saloona – Cozy, curry-like stew that hits different on cooler days
Getting there
Moving around? Easy. You’ve got rideshare apps, regular taxis, and a sweet railway line that gets you from Riyadh to Dammam in about four hours (with a must-do stop in Al Hofuf if you’re all about that Al-Ahsa Oasis). And if you’re on the other side of the country (hey, Jeddah!), just hop on a quick flight. They run super often and won’t wreck your wallet.
The sights, the food, the places, but most importantly the people, are what make the Saudi East Coast one of the most interesting places in the Kingdom. Just a stone’s throw from the Gulf and the Indian Ocean, it’s also a great place to start an even more epic journey.
