Joanna James
Once a humble Gulf fishing village, now transformed into a thriving port metropolis with avant-garde allurements, Al Khobar is an exotic blend of culture, history, nature, and innovation. Here are some must-have experiences in this commercial oasis city.
While it's iconic for being the site of Arabia's lucrative 'black gold' and now sports a sculpted skyline of state-of-the-art glamour, Al Khobar does not forfeit its nature-kissed appeal either. From the breathtaking Al Qarah Mountain caves and Loopagoon Water Park nestled on the gorgeous beach to scuba diving at Half Moon Bay and quad biking through the unique Wadi Al-Baida terrain, Al Khobar and its precincts host a myriad of sensational outdoorsy activities to fill up your itinerary. However, for a quick nature fix within this fascinating city of quirky museums, luxurious boulevards, and futuristic edutainment centres, head over to the refreshing seaside promenade dramatically dubbed 'The Corniche'. Here, you can indulge in the blend of lush green spaces and lyrical ocean walks while enjoying a spectacular Gulf sunset, playground picnicking with the kids, or slipping in a picturesque couple's jog. While you're there, do yourself a favour and try out the seafood grill and buffet at The Blue Restaurant!
For the most phenomenal science lessons that will pull you into an immersive and entertaining experience from the get-go, visit Al Khobar's iconic Science and Technology Centre. Whether you and your kids are passionate about the solar system, human anatomy, or marine ecosystems, the visual galleries and theatrical displays at SciTech are a great way to revive the child-like wonder at the world around us and its marvels. If your kids are at the more playful stage, the 'secret' play area at the Discovery Oasis is rich in fun diversions, as your older kids experiment with technology.
Whether your shopping taste runs towards bougie or budget-conscious, this spacious state-of-the-art shopper's haven contains a myriad of well-known brands and native boutiques of both mid-range and luxury pricing points. If you're on the hunt for an apartment for rent in Khobar strategically located near the city's best enticements, venture no further than Somerset Downtown Al Khobar.
A blend of eye-catching architecture, crystalline pools, vibrant playgrounds, and massive palm-lined promenades, these princely stomping grounds is ideal for spending quality time with your loved ones in a clean, green, and attractive space with a plentiful supply of drinks and snacks to cool off.
Dubbed as the historic 'Jewel of Arabia's Eastern Province', this off-the-beaten-path destination is a must for history and culture buffs to feast their eyes and stimulate their imagination. The ancient fortress, with its nooks and crannies displaying old-world jewellery, weaponry, crafts, and manuscripts, not to mention classic car models belonging to bygone royalty, will portal you back in time.
Floating off The Corniche into the Red Sea is a dreamy island of just 2000 square metres, complete with stunning architecture, lush greenery, splash-worthy attractions, and high-end cafés. Don't forget to enjoy an exotic bite at Brasa de Brazil, most celebrated for its designer salads and artisan bakes.
Another testament to the native visionary flair in engineering, this innovative structure is a multi-purpose three-storey masterpiece situated north of the Khobar Corniche. If you would fancy a gourmet meal atop a tower on the jewel-toned Gulf with a spectacular view of the city, sign yourself up for this one-of-a-kind landmark.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
