By Fariha Eshrat
Located in the Eastern Region of Saudi Arabia, Al-Ahsa is a historic location with a beautiful landscape. This oasis, a part of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network since December 2015, provides all the resources for an exciting weekend exploration of the rich cultural tapestry of Saudi Arabian heritage.
Named after the largest oasis in the world, Al-Ahsa is a land of serene green spaces and water springs located in the Eastern Province. The oasis stretches over an area of 20,000 hectares and includes a part of the vast Empty Quarter desert. Al-Ahsa Oasis is one of the largest and most famous natural oases in the world with over 30 million palm trees producing five tons of some of the finest dates. Al-Ahsa is a recognised World Heritage site and has been nominated as one of the seven wonders of the world. Al-Ahsa is also known for the warm welcome and generous hospitality of its locals.
The millions of date palm trees in the Al-Ahsa Oasis are irrigated by more than 60 artesian springs offering both hot and cold water. Excess water from the irrigation system ends up in the Al Asfar Lake (Yellow Lake) and Al Uyoun Lake making them both very important and a haven for fascinating wildlife and beautiful greenery.
Al-Ahsa has been inhabited since prehistoric times, due to its abundance of water in an otherwise arid region. Natural freshwater springs have existed in the oasis encouraging human habitation and agricultural efforts since prehistoric times. Nestled within the tranquil oasis are many archaeological sites showing the area’s significance historically.
Jawatha Mosque is believed to be one of the earliest mosques and is where the second Friday congregation prayer in Islam was offered; the first being held at the Prophet’s Mosque. Located in the center of Al-Ahsa National Park, the Jawatha Mosque was built in the seventh year of hijra, 629 AD and is still used for prayer today.
Jabl Qarah is one of the most famous natural attractions in Al-Ahsa. This flat-topped hill stands 732 ft (225 m) above sea level; thousands of years of water and wind have transformed it into a series of fascinating caves which provide a cool haven in the heat of summer and a warm escape in winter. It overlooks the largest expanse of palm trees and orchards.
Souq Al-Qasriyah in the center of Al-Ahsa you will find the oldest market in the Arabian Gulf, with a history dating back nearly six centuries. It was once of great social and economic importance and a forum of traditional handicrafts displaying the area’s prominent textiles industry. Shoppers can browse handmade garments, perfume, herbs, popular medicine and date trading shops. The beauty and diversity of the surrounding architecture is also a big draw for tourists.
Al-Uqair port is located on the Arabian Gulf, to the east of Saudi Arabia. It is the oldest historic port in the world dating back 1,500 years. Al-Uqair port boasts impressive architecture that attests to its wealth of history, making it the most famous historic port in the Kingdom. Although, it hasn’t received a single ship in more than half a century.
Al-Shu’ba Mountain is an area steeped in history and a perfect place for families to visit. It is also an ideal destination for practicing the hobby of drifting. Stand on the elevated historic stones and enjoy the beautiful views of the palm oasis and beaches surrounding it.
Qasr Sahood is a palace built during the Ottoman rule located in the Al-Hazem district of Al-Ahsa. Its name refers to the cannon which was stationed inside the palace called Sahood, to protect the city from the outsiders. It is one of the three remaining palaces in Al Ahsa. The Khuzam Palace, on the other hand, is located southwest of the ancient city in a desert area. It was built in 1932 for King Abdul Aziz and was also the home for King Saud.
The Princes’ Schools was one of the first schools in the Gulf region and it was opened in 1941. The school was attended by the urban elite and members of the royal family. It was recently renovated by the Heritage Foundation and is now a small museum that offers a window into the traditional teaching methods reserved for the brightest students.
As the country moves forward towards Vision 2030 with many exciting new changes and advancements, Al-Ahsa is working on their exciting projects for the future. The King Salman Energy Park called SPARK, is a megaproject designed to position Saudi Arabia as a global energy hub that furnishes a dynamic, enabling environment for foreign and domestic investment. The 50-square-kilometer energy city will be constructed between Dammam and Al-Ahsa, in the heart of the Saudi energy business.
Must-Visit Restaurants
● Visit Alkout Heritage Hotel, AlAhsa Heritage Village, or Intercontinental Al Ahsa for their restaurants and good food.
Must-Try Food
● Don’t leave Al-Ahsa without trying their dates, especially their famed Khalasah date, also known as khalas. It’s usually voted as the best date in the world.
Must-Visit Places
● The Ahsa National Museum is nice to visit. It contains a detailed record of the province’s rich history by collecting around 1400 antiquities, Islamic currencies, manuscripts, and pictures.
Local Products
● The textile industry has an economic importance in this region. Shoppers can peruse garments made of camel hair or wool and beautiful pieces of pottery, as well as wood and leather souvenirs.
