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Eastern Province

The Eastern Province is the largest province in the country, with up to 36% of the total land area stretching across the entire Gulf coast as well as parts of the vast Empty Quarter. This easternmost part of Saudi Arabia used to be home to the ancient Dilmun civilization in pre-Arab times and was a thriving trade hub located at the crossroads of the Levant, Mesopotamia and Indian civilizations. Today it is one of the most economically important regions in the country with its oil and gas production and export operations. The three main cities - Dammam, Dhahran, and Khobar - are all tightly clustered together along the coast, while the UNESCO designated Al-Ahsa oasis sits just inland. A large part of the province is covered by the Empty Quarter, the largest sand desert in the world. 

Experiences

A handpicked selection of experiences endorsed by our experts. If you can’t see what you’re looking for, let us know, as our extensive network of local contacts can open many doors.

Dammam

The largest city in the eastern province, Dammam is a major administrative center for the Saudi oil industry, the main industry of the region. It sits along the Arabian Gulf and has many lush green parks, airy waterfronts, and sandy beaches. It also has a burgeoning arts, sports, and entertainment scene.

Al Ahsa Oasis

The largest oasis in the world with more than 2.5 million palm trees, Al Ahsa Oasis is a UNESCO-designated heritage site recognized for its oasis agriculture traditions, large cultural landscape that includes archaeological sites of early settlements, and is an outstanding example of how humans settled in a desert environment and adapted to the environment. This fertile land was a hub for traders and caravans crossing the ancient trade routes as well as a stop for early pilgrims en route to Mecca. Visitors can tour the verdant landscape and see the artesian springs, wells, and canals, as well as the commercial areas that offer handicrafts, dates and homemade products, and local cuisine.

Empty Quarter

Also known as Rub’ al Khali, this expansive sand desert encompasses most of the southern third of the Arabian Peninsula, stretching over Saudi Arabia, Oman, the UAE, and Yemen. A daunting landscape, the hyper arid climate and large swathes of virtually impassable wasteland make it almost uninhabitable, with exception of hardy tribal settlements that have connections to the area’s few water resources. The adventurous can head to this wild expanse for a day trip packed with thrilling off-road driving, sand dune bashing, camel riding, and sand boarding. It is also possible to camp overnight beneath the stars the way the Bedouins do.

Khobar

Al Khobar sits right on the coast of the Arabian Gulf and is one of the ‘Triplet Cities’ of Dammam metropolitan area, serving as the main residential district of the region. Starting out with small shops, eventually the city became a hotspot for shopping malls. In recent times, it has also grown into a resort town and hosts serval beaches, entertainment facilities, and beach resorts, with Half Moon Bay the primary area just south of the city.

Saudi Arabia Regions

Explore in-depth information, experiences and highlights by navigating to specific regions using the links below.

Al Koot Heritage Hotel

Al Koot Heritage Hotel

Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia

A boutique hotel, Al Koot Heritage Hotel offers a comfortable stay in Hufof with a selection of seven exclusive rooms arranged around a central courtyard. Each room is equipped with a double bed and basic amenities, and ensuite bathrooms feature a bathtub and toiletries. Arabic design and motifs from antiques, colorful chairs, carpets, and geometric patterns found throughout the hotel lend personality to the traditional decor, reminiscent of a Moroccan Riad. The signature restaurant serves Arabian favorites in the main dining room or outdoor patio. Other facilities and services include 24-hour front desk, laundry service, and a business center. The hotel is a 30-minute drive from Al Ahsa airport.
Sheraton Dammam

Sheraton Dammam

Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia

Located in the heart of the business district along the corniche just 10-minutes from the beach, the Sheraton Dammam is one of the city’s premier hotels. The property has 283 guest rooms, each furnished with the signature Sheraton Sweet Sleeper beds, modern technology and facilities, and comfortable work and relaxation spaces. The rooms also have panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf. There are five dining options: the signature all-day buffet restaurant Fayrouz which serves local and continental fare, Asahi is a Japanese-Chinese specialty restaurant, Da Vinci offers Italian cuisine, Vienna Cafe serves coffee and light bites, while Jar Al Qamar Social Lounge is ideal for drinks. Other facilities include a fitness room, two tennis courts, indoor and outdoor pools, and a wellness center with indoor heated hot tub and sauna. The Sheraton Dammam is a quick 30-minute drive from Dammam International airport.
Wyndham Garden Dammam

Wyndham Garden Dammam

Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia

The Wyndham Garden Dammam offers a convenient and premium stay at the heart of the city in the business district. Spacious guest rooms start at 50 sqm and feature modern tech, complimentary WiFi, and classic furnishings in neutral tones incorporated with fine fabrics. Select upgraded rooms feature additional work space, dining area, kitchenette, and balcony. Al Nakheel is the signature restaurant serving a breakfast buffet and continental a la carte menu for lunch and dinner service, as well as 24/7 room service. For light bites, Sun Shine Cafe is a casual lounge with a menu of pastry and beverage selection. Other facilities and services include 24-hour reception, dry cleaning and laundry services, a fitness center, indoor pool, spa and sauna.

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Travelogues

An Asia-focused magazine brought to you by Remote Lands - a platform for adventure, luxury, and authenticity from experts and explorers around the continent.

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