Hafen
Dammam

OVERVIEW

Explore the wonders within the world’s largest natural oasis, a unique landscape with 2.5 million date palms and traces of settlements that date to the Neolithic period. The Al-Ahsa Oasis is so unusual and archaeologically important that UNESCO declared it a World Heritage site. It contains the remains of mosques, fortresses and canals that lend great insight into early human life. While traveling through the Qarah Hills within the sprawling oasis, you will visit an ancient cave, in which you will instantly notice and welcome its substantially cooler temperature. The town of Hofuf is also in Al-Ahsa and its landmarks add another layer of understanding to local Saudi history. You will see the Princes’ School, where the royals and elite Saudis were educated, and the 16th-century Ibrahim Castle, a fortress that combines Islamic and military architectures. Free time at the Quasariah Souq allows you to become even more immersed in the culture.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Explore the extraordinary landscape of the world’s largest natural oasis, including an ancient cave.
• Gain insight into early human settlements in the oasis that are thousands of years old.
• See landmarks in an oasis town that reflect privileged education and Islamic architecture.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress conservatively when going ashore.
• Wear sun protection and bring bottled water.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

While away the hours doing whatever you please at a beach club on one of the most spectacular stretches of sand on the Persian Gulf. The semi-enclosed waters of the gulf are saltier than you may expect and that high salinity will keep you more buoyant than in most other seas. The water couldn’t be more inviting for a refreshing swim or to just wade out into it and take in the gorgeous scenery. You might stroll along the shore, lie back on a lounge chair and bask in the sun and sit in the shade for a change of scenery. The beach will likely be uncrowded so you can easily find your own private oasis, a place in the sun that will suit your every need. The amenities of the beach club will be yours to enjoy at your leisure along with a classic beach lunch of burgers and fries.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Spend hours relaxing in the sun at an exclusive beach club on the Persian Gulf.
• Enjoy the high salinity of the water, which will keep you surprisingly buoyant.
• Dine on classic beach cuisine and take advantage of the beach club’s amenities.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress conservatively when going ashore.
• Wear sun protection and bring bottled water.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

View the most revealing attractions in Dammam and come away with a genuine feel for the local lifestyle. The city was a small fishing hamlet until 1938 when vast oil reserves were discovered, which fueled a boom economy that has never let up. Dammam is extraordinarily modern and most everything you see has been built since that discovery, including Share Al-Hob. Known locally as the Love Market – although that nickname is somewhat of a mystery – Share Al-Hob is a collection of shops featuring merchandise such as jewelry, hand-crafted carpets, art work and antiques. After browsing the marketplace, you will travel along Dammam’s coastal Corniche and stop along the way for photos of the landmarks. The waterfront promenade is exceptionally popular as it is lined with shops, restaurants and gardens. During the evening, chances are, you will see joggers, families picnicking and locals fishing along the sea wall. The setting presents an authentic slice of life you won’t soon forget.

HIGHLIGHTS

• See the highlights in modern Dammam, a city that boomed after oil was discovered in 1938.
• Browse the shops in the Share Al-Hob, a hub for exquisite and traditional merchandise.
• Drive along the picturesque waterfront Corniche and stop to snap photos of the landmarks.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress conservatively when going ashore.
• Wear sun protection and bring bottled water.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.