Al-Khobar

A coastal city in the Eastern Province on the Arabian Gulf, known for its beaches and modern amenities. It serves as a major commercial and leisure destination for residents and visitors.

Things to do

• Half Moon Beach — A popular sandy beach with calm waters ideal for swimming, water sports, and relaxing by the Gulf.
• Corniche Promenade — A scenic waterfront walkway stretching along the coast with parks, restaurants, and sunset views over the Arabian Gulf.
• Al-Khobar Water Front Mall — A modern shopping and dining complex directly on the waterfront offering retail, restaurants, and leisure facilities.
• Tarout Island — An archaeological site accessible via causeway featuring ancient ruins, a historic castle, and views of traditional Gulf architecture.
• Al-Nakheel Mall — A major shopping destination with local and international brands, entertainment options, and traditional Arabian restaurants.
• Khobar Bike Path — A dedicated cycling and jogging path running along the coastline, popular for morning and evening recreation.

Food to try

• Kabsa — A fragrant rice dish cooked with meat, aromatic spices, and topped with fresh vegetables and almonds, a Gulf staple.
• Grilled Hammour — Fresh Gulf grouper fish seasoned with Arabic spices and grilled, often served with rice and hummus at waterfront restaurants.
• Shawarma — Marinated meat cooked on a rotating spit, served in flatbread with tahini and fresh vegetables, widely available throughout the city.
• Majboos — A spiced meat and rice dish similar to kabsa but with distinct local seasoning preferences unique to the Eastern Province.
• Fresh Gulf Seafood — The corniche offers numerous restaurants serving daily catches including prawns, crab, and various fish preparations.

Local customs & good to know

• Dress Code Respect — Women should wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees, and men should avoid shorts and sleeveless shirts in public areas outside beaches.
• Prayer Times — Many businesses close during the five daily prayer times; plan shopping and activities accordingly, particularly during Friday prayers.
• Ramadan Observance — During the holy month, eating, drinking, and smoking in public during daylight hours is prohibited; restaurants cater to evening dining after sunset.
• Arabic Greetings — Learning basic Arabic phrases like 'Assalamu alaikum' (peace be upon you) and 'Shukran' (thank you) is appreciated by locals.