09
Al Ahsa Oasis
496km
30km
Driving EASY, PAVED ROADS
Best for AN ACTION-PACKED WEEKEND
Recommended for A BIT OF EVERYTHING
A vast underground aquifer flows under this area, which has defined its history. Inhabited since prehistoric times due to this abundance of water, growing can take place all year round in a region that would otherwise be desert. Today, this ancient water source supports the production of over 100,000 tonnes of dates every year.
This route takes you on paved roads and easy off-road tracks to the cultural highlights of Al Ahsa Oasis. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2018, there are a variety of projects aimed at preserving and showcasing the history and culture of the area. With multiple stops, it’s recommended you take two days on this route to allow ample time for sightseeing.
Mount Four
A great place to end your day, the base of these four impressive peaks is an excellent spot to watch the sun go down and spend the night camping. In the winter, the area can become quite busy, and a pop-up café serves thirsty off-roaders
Al Nassla Rock
If you are eager to get back into the desert, this striking rock south-east of Al Hufuf is the perfect place to head. Rising out of the desert, evidence of two old watchtowers can be seen perched on its surface.
Al Qarah Mountain & Land of Civilizations
Just east of Al Hufuf, Al Qarah Mountain has been lovingly developed into a tourist attraction. You can drive around its wide base and then head out on an easy hike to its summit where you can admire views over Al Ahsa Oasis.
On the eastern side of the mountain is the Land of Civilizations, an immaculately renovated open-air museum which opens daily from 8am to 11pm. Entrance costs SAR 50 and the exhibition showcases the area’s ancient history and impact of the oasis. The entrance fee also includes admission to a cave complex which has been outfitted with lights and walkways for easy access.
HEARTLAND OF ISLAM
The birthplace of Islam, the second most widely practised religion in the world, Saudi Arabia’s culture and development has been deeply influenced by this faith. Considered a way of life, Islam is rooted in five pillars: Shahadah, the profession of faith; Salah, commitment to daily prayer; Zakat, the responsibility of almsgiving; Sawm, fasting during the holy month of Ramadan and Hajj, the pilgrimage to Makkah.
Dougha Handmade Pottery Factory
If you drive to the western side of Al Qarah Mountain, you will find a pottery factory which has been operating for over 150 years. Established by Dougha Al Gabash, the shop was set up in one of Al Qarah’s caverns to keep him cool and his mountain clay moist. Today the factory is run by his grandsons who are still using traditional potting methods. The site is now a large open-air factory where tourists are free to roam amongst the pots and purchase authentic local ceramics.
Mount Abu Hsas Altoithir
Just north of Al Qarah Mountain, unlike its larger neighbour, Mount Abu Hsas Altoithir has not been developed into a tourist site. A quieter option for a hike, extensive erosion of the rocks has left them craggy and undulating, perfect for a scramble to the summit.
Al Ahsa National Park
This national park is popular among locals for its sandy off-roading and shady barbecue areas. With lots of trees, low-lying rock formations for climbing and a children’s playground, this is a nice stop for families with younger off-roaders in tow.
Jawatha Mosque & Park
Originally built in the 7th century CE, Jawatha Mosque is believed to be the first mosque in eastern Arabia. Unfortunately, over the years much of the original structure had been destroyed. However, the mosque recently underwent restoration and is now the site of regular Friday prayers. Next to the mosque is a scenic park where visitors can stroll along the walkway by a lake and enjoy a cup of coffee from one of the local shops.
NEAR THE SOUQ YOU WILL NOTICE SOMETHING THAT LOOKS LIKE A LONG WATERING TROUGH. THIS IS ACTUALLY AN OPEN DRAIN THAT TRANSPORTS WASTEWATER FROM LOCAL FARMS.
Ibrahim Palace
Nestled in the Al Hufuf neighbourhood of Al Kout, Ibrahim Palace was the main centre for governance in historic Al Ahsa. The area houses a mosque, lounge area and weapons warehouse.
Souq al Qaisariya
A bustling souq has operated in this area for centuries. Destroyed by fire in 2001, the souq has been restored in a classical Arabic style. Shops are nestled under columned canopies, their merchandise spilling out onto the expansive pedestrianised walkway. Ornate scrollwork is carved into some of the larger arches, and traditional wooden shutters cover the windows and doors. Spanning over 7,000km2, this lively market sells a wide range of local products including handmade leather sandals and dates from surrounding farms.
BELOW THE SURFACE
While it may seem like there’s nothing but sand as far as the eye can see, the desert in this area hides a valuable treasure buried beneath its surface – the world’s largest conventional oil field, called Ghawar Oil Field. Oil comes from dead microorganisms trapped where oxygen is insufficient, safeguarding them from decomposition. This, combined with time, heat and pressure, eventually creates oil. Thanks to the tectonic movement that formed the Arabian Peninsula millions of years ago, diverse microorganisms and marine species rapidly evolved in the area. This enriched the ground with the organic carbon necessary to facilitate this process.
DESERT GREENERY
It’s no surprise to see a wide array of plants across the country’s various terrains. Even in locations where you think vegetation could not possibly survive, you might just encounter the resilient firemaker bush, desert camping or ghaf tree. If you’re ever unsure of what type of wildlife you’ve discovered, go to the ‘Natural World’ section to get a better idea.
