6 Spectacular Things That Will Convince You to Visit Al Ahsa Right Now!

The jewel of the East Kingdom, Al Ahsa, is a verdant landscape, blessed with the bounty of date palm groves, divine natural springs and beautiful farmlands. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Al Ahsa features one of the world’s largest natural oases; it is also dotted with rich historical sites that date back to the Neolithic age. A green belt amid an otherwise desert country, Al Ahsa is a paradise for those seeking the treasure trove of nature. Here is your travel guide to all the great things you can do here.

1. Lounging on the Shores of the Uqair Beach

If you can hear the seaside calling, then take an excursion to the lovely Uqair Beach. Walk along the shoreline and let the salty air wash away all your fatigue. Revel in the dusky spectacle of the sunset, picnic away with loved ones, indulge in water sports, enjoy a camel ride and snap some wonderful memories on your lens.

2. Visiting the Natural Reservoirs

Take a refreshing dip and heal away in the natural springs of Al Ahsa. Popular ones being the Um Sabah, Al Khodud, Al Jawhariah and Al – Harah among the many. The springs are known to have a healing effect, thanks to the high concentration of minerals in them. Splash away in the soothing waters and relax your senses! If you’d like to further soak in the wonder of some more natural water bodies, drive to the outskirts of the city to visit the sparkling Yellow Lake. Nestled away amidst the mighty dunes, the Yellow Lake hides like a gem, giving way to spectacular views of nature. Walk along the lakeshore or bring out your picnic basket! Take a seat and breathe in serenity as you relish the sight and the amazing local wildlife.

3. Trekking to the Al Qarah Mountains

Take a trip to see the limestone hills of Al Qarah that sit at a height of 200 m. Unleash the adventure junkie in you and embark on a climb to savour the striking views of the region and take your time to admire the vistas. Before the climb, explore the caves and the alleys that are cut into the rock and are well-lit. You could also check out the other sites like the museum and the mosque that sit in the vicinity. Post your expedition, you can grab a bite at the café or tour the gift shops. Wheelchair accessibility is also there in some parts of the cave.

4. Experiencing Local Pottery 

For an experiential activity, get your hands dirty at the Dougha Handmade Pottery Factory where local potters have been crafting excellent pottery works for many generations. One of the oldest pottery centres of the country, it was started 150 years ago by Al Garash who was a trained potter. When here, let the potters guide you around the factory as they acquaint you with the history of the place. Try your hands at the pottery wheel and make an art of your own! Else, bag away some clay souvenirs, ranging from pots, flasks to vessels and vases, tagged as low as SAR 20. 

5. Shopping at Souq Al Qaisariya 

Welcome to the oldest markets of Saudi Arabia! An open-air market, Souq Al Qaisariya finds its oldest mentions in the diaries of the travellers who trudged its lands, way back in 1822, almost 200 years ago! The souk that spans across 7000 sq m, is home to hundreds of houses. Clay bricks that keep the ethos cool, line the blocks, as you stroll through the streets. Purchase everything under the sun, from oils, spices, perfumes to carpets, jewellery, clothes, vintage crockery and many more items. Keep in mind that the souk is an expensive tourist attraction and may be shopping for rare items that one may like is a good tip, to begin with. Do check out the Al-Said tea and the coffee shop here where you can experience the regional hospitality while sipping aromatic Arabic coffee.

6. Devouring the Dates

Block a date in the land of 2 million date palms! A trip to Al Ahsa is incomplete without tasting some delicious dates. You can taste many dates that come from an array of varieties. The Khalasah date in particular is much sought after and is considered to be one of the best in the world! Readily available with street sellers and some luxury stores, be sure to grab your date(s). Pair your dates with an Arabic coffee or dig into the Hezawi bread that is unique to Al Ahsa and is cooked with dates, mixed in the dough to make it sweet. You can eat it with cheese to balance the sweet taste with some saltiness!

So that was your go-to guide for all exciting things to do in Al Ahsa! Do add this destination to your itinerary for Saudi Arabia and experience something different. Bon, voyage!