Geographic Location

Al-Ahsa (whose capital is the city of Al-Hofuf) lies in the southern part of the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia, about 328 km east of Riyadh. Al-Ahsa Governorate is the largest governorate in the Kingdom by area.

The Largest Natural Oasis in the World

The Al-Ahsa Oasis forms the backbone of the region's identity. According to Guinness World Records, it is the largest natural palm oasis on Earth, home to more than 2.5 million date palms (some local sources cite even higher figures, up to nearly 4 million) spread across an area exceeding 85 km². The oasis is fed by more than 280 hot, warm, and cold springs.

A World Heritage Site

In June 2018, UNESCO inscribed the "Al-Ahsa Oasis: an Evolving Cultural Landscape" on its World Heritage List, making it the fifth Saudi site to receive this designation.

Climate

Al-Ahsa has a hot desert continental climate, with summer temperatures often exceeding 45–51°C, while winters are mild to relatively cool at night.

Economy

  • Agriculture and Dates: Al-Ahsa is renowned for producing premium Khalas dates, alongside other varieties.
  • Historic Trade and Pearl Diving: Al-Ahsa has historical ties to trade routes through the old Al-Uqair port.
  • Oil: Al-Ahsa lies close to the Ghawar field, the largest onshore oil field in the world.

Why Visit Al-Ahsa?

  • Oasis Gardens and Palm Farms: Wander among freshwater pools and dense groves of palm trees.
  • Qaisariah Historic Souq: One of the oldest and largest covered markets in the Arabian Gulf.
  • Jabal Al-Qarah: A network of naturally cool limestone caves east of Al-Hofuf.
  • Qasr Ibrahim and Jawatha Mosque: Storied historical and Islamic landmarks.