Saudi Arabia is a country that has been known for its oil reserves and conservative values, but it is also a country that has a rich cultural heritage and a stunning landscape. My recent stop in Saudi Arabia on my cruise with MSC in the Persian Gulf was a pleasant surprise, as I got to experience the beauty of the country, its rich culture, and the warm hospitality of its people.
Off to the Al Ahsa Oasis
Our day-tour from Dammam to Al Ahsa Oasis was an incredible experience that gave us a glimpse into the traditional life of Saudi Arabia. On the way, we saw caravans of bedouins, who are nomadic people that have been living in the deserts of Arabia for centuries. It was fascinating to see how these people still maintain their traditional way of life, traveling with their camels and living in tents.
Our first stop was Al-Hofuf, which is the largest city in the Al-Ahsa oasis and one of the oldest settlements in the Arabian Peninsula. We visited the Alamiriah School, which is a historic school that was established in the early 20th century to educate girls in the region. It was inspiring to see how the school has been able to maintain its traditional architecture and its focus on educating girls, despite the changing times.
We then had lunch at Al Koot Heritage Hotel & Restaurant, which is a beautiful hotel that is located not far from the Ibrahim Palace. The hotel is known for its Hasawi cuisine, which is a local specialty that is made with fresh ingredients and traditional spices. The food was absolutely delicious, and it was a great opportunity to taste the local cuisine and experience the hospitality of the people.
Al Qarah Mountain
The highlight of our tour was the Al Qarah Mountain, which is located in the Al-Ahsa oasis and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The mountain is known for its stunning rock formations and its natural springs, which have been used by the locals for centuries. We were able to hike up the mountain and see the incredible views of the oasis and the surrounding desert. It was an unforgettable experience that gave us a deep appreciation for the beauty of the natural landscape in Saudi Arabia.
Overall, my stop in Saudi Arabia on my cruise in the Persian Gulf was a wonderful experience that opened my eyes to the richness and diversity of the country. The country has a lot to offer, from its beautiful natural landscapes to its rich cultural heritage and its warm hospitality. I was surprised to see how welcoming and friendly the people were, and how eager they were to share their culture and traditions with us.
My opinion on Saudi Arabia
One thing that really stood out to me was the role of women in Saudi society. Despite the conservative values that are often associated with the country, I was amazed to see how many women were involved in different aspects of society, from education to business. It was inspiring to see how they were able to navigate the cultural norms and create opportunities for themselves and others.
Another thing that surprised me was the incredible efforts that the country is making to preserve its cultural heritage and promote tourism. The Al-Ahsa oasis, for example, is a prime example of how the country is investing in its natural and cultural resources to create sustainable tourism opportunities. The preservation of historic sites like the Alamiriah School and the Al Qarah Mountain is a testament to the country’s commitment to preserving its heritage for future generations.
My stop in Saudi Arabia on my cruise in the Persian Gulf was a truly eye-opening experience that exceeded my expectations in every way. The country has so much to offer, from its rich cultural heritage to its stunning natural landscapes, and it is a destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. The warm hospitality of the people, the delicious food, and the incredible sights and sounds of the country will leave a lasting impression on anyone who visits. I can’t wait