Hofuf

DESTINATIONS saudi arabia hofuf

Hofuf

Nestled within the lush Al-Ahsa Oasis in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia, the city of Al Hofuf (also known as Al-Ahsa or Al-Hasa) sprawls over the palm-tree covered lands inhabited since prehistoric times. Al Hofuf is packed with historic sites, architectural monuments, and natural wonders, from forts and palaces to the whimsical Qara Mountain Caves and natural springs.

The City

Al-Ahsa Oasis containing the city of Hofuf boasts a staggering estimate of one and a half million date palm trees, which has turned Hofuf into a leading producer of dates worldwide. The abundance of this sweet fruit isn't its only pride - Al-Ahsa has been inhabited from time immemorial due to its relatively favorable climate and abundance of natural water springs (Al-Jawhariah, Al-Khodoud and Um Sabah, as well as the Al-Harah hot springs), and traces of ancient life can still be seen in the archaeological sites scattered throughout the oasis. Some of the area's main attractions include the mysterious mountain caves of Qara, Ibrahim Palace (the province's main administrative center and architectural monument), the historic Al-Qaisariyah Market (one of the finest souks in the Kingdom) and Al-Ahsa National Park. Hofuf is located only an hour-long train ride away from the coastal town of Uqair known for its pristine beach, which makes for a perfect weekend seaside getaway.

Do & See Dining Cafes Bars & Nightlife Shopping Tourist Information

Do & See

The Al-Ahsa Oasis (Asia's largest) is an attraction of its own - the area has recently been nominated to officially become one of the Seven Wonders of the World due to its unique position at the crossroads of historic trade routes and natural diversity. A great way to get a bird's eye view of the oasis is to climb the Qara Mountain (do not miss the famous Qara Caves en route), from where the incredible sight of hundreds of thousands of date palms unfolds. In Hofuf, the must-dos are the authentic, well-preserved Qaisariah Souq, Ibrahim Palace and (for history buffs) the Al-Ahsa Museum for Antiquities and Heritage.

Qaisariah Souq

The Qaisariah Souq is a cultural attraction just as much as a shopping venue - the souq is well-preserved to reflect the spirit of ancient times, Arabic architecture and traditional markets. Vendors sell all manner of things (fabrics, crafts, spices, etc.) in the unique, old-time atmosphere of the …

Al Ahsa National Park

The National Park is a beautiful green oasis located in the area of Umran, in close proximity to the Qara Mountain. Originally planned to prevent desert sands being blown into the city of Umran, the park has now transformed into a family-friendly green destination. The park welcomes visitors to its green spaces, playgrounds, recreation …

Uqair Beach

An hour long train ride east from the Hofuf railway station is the ancient fort of Uqair and Uqair Beach - a stretch of land perfectly fit for a beach day trip from Hofuf. There is little infrastructure in the area, so prepare everything you may need in advance - including swimming gear and …

Al-Qara Caves

The extraordinary rock formations and caves of Al-Qara are, perhaps, the most prominent landmark of the region and deserve a day trip of their own. Wandering through the maze is pleasant any time of year - the caves stay cool during summer, warm throughout the winter months and the mountaintop offer unobstructed views of …

Ibrahim Palace

A monument of Ottoman architecture, the palace is an ancient fort with walls built from then-common materials of mud and straw. There is a small museum of Ottoman artifacts and a mosque on its premises, and the palace is open to visitors all days of the …

Dining

Grains such as wheat or rice and meats, such as chicken or lamb constitute the bulk of Saudi cuisine--pork is not normally served in the country, as its consumption is forbidden by Islam. Yoghurt is often used in local cooking, and dates constitute a dessert staple. A "Kabsa" dish made up of rice, fish, and shrimp is typical of the area. There is no shortage of restaurants serving all kinds of cuisines in Hofuf; most have separate designated areas for families and singles.

Topaz

Hofuf is not a city distinguished by a huge variety of fine dining establishments, and Topaz would certainly be a good choice for those looking to visit a higher-end establishment. The menu is extensive and varied, and it includes Middle Eastern and international …

Bharat Restaurant Indian Kitchen

Bharat is a celebrated local restaurant that serves Indian classics and is hailed as the best Indian restaurant in town. The extensive menu includes a variety of vegetarian and meat-based dishes (do not miss the "biryani"). The seating area ambience is pleasant, …

Amore's

The restaurant's menu, albeit international, is heavily inspired by Italian cuisine, which shows through even in the local interpretations of the Italian classics. The interior is elegant and understated, and a special emphasis is made on the food …

Cafes

Dates reign king in foods typical of the Eastern Province, and dishes served at Hofuf's cafes are no exception. Molasses extracted from dates are used for preparing porridge (a local diet staple). Menus of most establishments (from small locales to international chains) feature date-based desserts. Much as elsewhere in Saudi Arabia, fruit juices and smoothies are also very popular.

Bayt Jaddi

Located not far from Hofuf Mall (at the crossing of Abu Baka as Siddiq and Kind Abdulayiy Road), this eatery is a locals' darling. The place serves tapas-style Middle Eastern dishes and snack foods and is a popular choice for breakfast--cheese-stuffed omelettes are a big …

La Terrasse Cafe

Expect a short wait to be sated at this upscale cafe, for there is often a line of repeat customers at the door. The menu is Italian-inspired, with "risotto balls" being held in high regard by customers. Desserts are decadent--try the chocolate or date …

Vitamin Palace

Vitamin Palace attracts visitors with its enticing display of fresh colourful fruit and offers a large variety of fruit juices and smoothies. The cafe also offers a few meal options--traditional Arabic shawarma, sandwiches, and other dishes are available to …

Bars & Nightlife

The cultural environment in Saudi Arabia is highly conservative. Religious law forbids the sale or consumption of alcohol throughout Saudi Arabia, so there are no bars or nightclubs. Instead, evening social activities are centred on shopping or dining out in one of the city’s many restaurants or cafés whilst indulging in a delicious mocktail (a mix of fresh fruit juices) or a strong cup of Arabic coffee.

Shopping

From one of Saudi Arabia's most famous historic souks to high-rise modern malls - there is no shortage of shopping opportunities in Hofuf. Locally produced products include, of course, dates and their derivatives, as well as clothing and textiles, coffee pots and jewelry. Please mind that some stores allow entry to women or families only (a sign will normally be displayed in the front window).