Things To Do
in Al Khubar
Al Khubar is a modern coastal city on Saudi Arabia's Eastern Province shoreline along the Persian Gulf. It blends a vibrant corniche and waterfront parks with upscale shopping, cafés, and new hotel developments. The city sits alongside Dammam and Dhahran, forming part of a dynamic Gulf coast corridor with easy access to Bahrain via the nearby causeway.
Visitors will find a hospitable, cosmopolitan atmosphere that pairs beach life with urban exploration and family-friendly entertainment.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk along the Al Khubar Corniche, where the gentle breeze from the Arabian Gulf invigorates your senses. Stop by one of the local cafes for a traditional Saudi breakfast, savoring dishes like foul medames and fresh flatbreads. The vibrant flowers and palm trees lining the promenade create a picturesque setting, perfect for enjoying the early morning sun.
After breakfast, head to the nearby Al Khobar Mall for some shopping therapy, where you can find international brands and local handicrafts. Enjoy lunch at one of the mall's restaurants, sampling local seafood delicacies. As the afternoon progresses, visit the Al Khobar Water Tower for stunning panoramic views of the city and coastline.
As dusk settles, return to the Corniche to witness a breathtaking sunset over the Gulf. Choose a seaside restaurant for dinner, where you can indulge in grilled fish and traditional Arabian dishes while listening to the soothing sound of waves. Conclude your evening with a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, watching the city lights twinkle in the distance.
Begin your adventure at the Heritage Village, where you can immerse yourself in the rich cultural history of Saudi Arabia. Explore the traditional architecture and exhibits showcasing local crafts, textiles, and artifacts from various regions of the Kingdom. Engage with local artisans who are often present, sharing their skills in pottery and weaving.
Enjoy a traditional lunch at the village's restaurant, offering dishes made from authentic recipes passed down through generations. Afterward, participate in a workshop where you can learn about traditional Saudi cooking or handicrafts. The afternoon is perfect for wandering the village and taking photos of the unique, historic structures.
As evening approaches, attend a cultural performance featuring traditional music and dance, offering a glimpse into the vibrant heritage of Saudi Arabia. Enjoy a casual dinner at a nearby local eatery, where you can try out dishes like kabsa and shawarma. Wind down your day with a visit to a local coffee shop, indulging in Arabic coffee and dates.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🚗Taxi (1 km) | $1-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (1 night) | $60-120 |
| ☕Coffee/latte | $2-5 |
| 🍽️Dinner for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong Gulf coastline with easy access to beaches and waterfront dining
- Modern infrastructure, malls, and cultural venues like Ithra
- Alcohol-focused nightlife is minimal; expectations differ from Western cities
- Very hot summers; outdoor activities are seasonal
- "Marhaban" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Min fadlik" - Please
- "Afwan" - Excuse me / You're welcome
- "Kam thaman hadha?" - How much is this?
- "Ayna al-hammam?" - Where is the toilet?
- "Hal tatakallam al-Inglizia?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Al Khubar
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic waterfront promenade with palm-lined vistas, colorful sunsets, and view opportunities toward Bahrain across the gulf.
Architectural landmark offering striking cityscape shots, especially at dusk and night when illuminated.
Scenic vantage points along the Gulf coast for expansive horizon shots toward Bahrain on clear days.
Futuristic architecture and interior spaces perfect for exterior and interior photography, including the tower and gallery foyers.
Food in Al Khubar
Al Khubar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant rice dish cooked with meat (chicken, lamb, or camel) and a blend of Saudi spices; widely served in restaurants and family gatherings.
Must-Try!
Smoky, tender meat served over spiced rice, traditionally cooked in underground clay ovens; a staple at larger gatherings and coastal eateries.
Seafood rice dish featuring fish or shrimp with onions and spices; a coastal favorite near the Gulf.
Flatbread or bread-based dishes often paired with stews; common in home-style dining and casual restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Casual seaside stalls offering shawarma, falafel, grilled fish, and sweet treats with a Gulf breeze and sunset views.
Traditional market corners where you can sample dates, spices, nuts, and small bites typical of the Eastern Province.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress conservatively in public; shoulders and knees should be covered, particularly in more traditional settings and religious sites.
Respect local customs around gender interactions; avoid public displays of affection. Public behavior is generally conservative, especially during prayer times and Ramadan.
Ask permission before photographing people. Be mindful near religious sites and private properties.
Safety
Tipping in Al Khubar
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not obligatory. In sit-down restaurants, a 5-10% tip is common if service is not included. Taxi fares are often rounded up; hotel staff may appreciate a small gratuity for special service.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Cash in Saudi Riyals is still frequently used, especially at markets and smaller shops. Some places may accept mobile wallets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot and humid, with temperatures often above 40°C (104°F). Plan outdoor activity for early morning or late afternoon, stay hydrated, and seek shade. Evenings are cooler and good for waterfront strolls.
Mild and pleasant, with daytime temperatures typically in the 20s Celsius (70s Fahrenheit) and cooler nights. Great for outdoor sightseeing and dune visits.
Warm days with comfortable evenings; light layers recommended. Ideal for outdoor markets, parks, and coastal walks.
Similar to spring—moderate temperatures with breezy evenings; good for beach walks and city exploration.
Al Khubar at Night
Hiking in Al Khubar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hill and cave area about a couple of hours by car from Al Khubar; offers easier to moderate hikes and interesting geology with panoramic views of the oasis region.
Short desert treks and dune walks in the coastal desert area; suitable for a half-day excursion with sunset photography opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Al Khubar by plane.
Located near Dammam, ~30-60 minutes from central Al Khubar by highway; major international and domestic flights; taxis and car rentals available.
Located near Hofuf, about 1.5-2 hours by road; serves regional flights and is an option for certain routes or day trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Local residents who make up the administrative and cultural core of the city.
A diverse expatriate community contributing to business, education, and service sectors.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport region-wide; local leagues and informal pickup games are common.
Widely played in schools and public courts; available at clubs and community centers.
Kayaking, jet-skiing, and paddleboarding along the Corniche and Half Moon Bay when conditions permit.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Al Khubar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many veg options are available, including falafel, hummus, mutabbal, salads, and vegetable stews; ask for vegetable-based dishes and avoid meat-based stock. In many places you can customize rice and veggie plates.