"The East... The Kingdom's maritime gateway and the world's energy capital"

From the shores of the Arabian Gulf to the green oases, the east of the Kingdom blends authentic heritage and industrial development in unique harmony

Eastern Region Information

240+

meters above sea level

540,000 كم²

Area size

11

Province

3700+

Tourist site
About the Eastern Region (Eastern Province)
The Eastern Region is located on the coast of the Arabian Gulf, and is considered the eastern maritime gateway of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the capital of the global oil and energy industry. The region is characterized by its ancient history and diverse terrain between green oases, extended coasts, and sand dunes. It covers an area of more than 540,000 square kilometers and is famous for its modern cities, industrial centers, and commercial ports, in addition to its distinguished historical, heritage, and tourist sites.
Discover the magic of the Kingdom's east
Civilization in the East

Civilization in the East

The Eastern Region is home to ancient civilizations dating back thousands of years, as evidenced by historical sites such as Tarout Island and Thaj. It features a unique blend of ancient past and developed present, hosting industrial cities and global commercial centers. The East witnessed a major civilizational transformation with the discovery of oil, making it a model for rapid economic and urban development.

Clothing in the East

Clothing in the East

Traditional clothing in the Eastern Region is influenced by maritime culture and trade with the Gulf. Men wear white thobe and white ghutra or red shemagh, with the Gulf bisht embroidered with gold threads for occasions. Women wear clothes decorated with maritime embroidery, makhamer and draas adorned with zari, with traditional bukhnuq and gold jewelry of Gulf character.

Customs in the East

Customs in the East

The Eastern Region is famous for its traditions related to both the sea and the desert. Its people are distinguished by generous hospitality and serving Arabic coffee, dates, and Gulf sweets. Folk arts are rich in Gulf arts such as Ardah, Samri, and Liwa, and maritime festivals and traditional camel and horse races are held. Families inherit traditional crafts related to diving, fishing, and shipbuilding.

Food in the East

Food in the East

Famous for diverse dishes combining seafood and land food, such as Mutabbaq, Murabian, Muqalqal, and Haris. Rich seafood like shrimp, hamour, and safi, and popular sweets like Khabisa, Sago, and Asida. Eastern cuisines are characterized by a blend of Gulf flavors and local spices, with influences from Indian and Persian cuisines due to trade exchange across the Gulf.

Tourist Landmarks

Tourist Landmarks

Dammam and Khobar Corniche, King Abdullah Economic City, Jubail Islands and Tarout Island. Landmarks vary between beaches, marine parks, popular markets, and modern shopping centers. Green oases in Al-Ahsa (Al-Ahsa Oasis registered in UNESCO) and ancient water springs form distinctive tourist destinations. The region witnesses major development projects such as NEOM project which extends to parts of it.

Architecture in the East (Gulf Architecture)

Architecture in the East (Gulf Architecture)

Traditional mud and stone houses with wind towers for natural ventilation and spacious inner courtyards. Historical forts such as Qatif Fort and Al-Qashla Fort, and heritage palaces such as Al-Bayah House in Al-Thuqbah. Modern architecture features skyscrapers and glass buildings that reflect the region's economic and technological development.