Al-Khobar, located in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province, has become a major attraction for winter tourism, drawing over one million visitors as part of the ongoing Saudi Winter Program 2025/2026. This surge in interest highlights Al-Khobar’s rise as a global tourism destination.
The “Al-Khobar Season” festival has garnered strong interest from both regional and international visitors. Since its launch in November 2025, the festival has welcomed more than one million visitors, supported by collaboration with over 50 private-sector partners, including hotels, travel operators, airlines, and car rental companies. Through the Visit Saudi, visitors gain access to more than 20 curated locations and events, supported by an interactive digital map, guided excursions, and immersive cultural and entertainment experiences.
Investment and Development
Furthermore, Al-Khobar has seen accelerated investment momentum during the season, as a strategic agreement was signed to develop Ajdan Island, a major waterfront project on the Al-Khobar Corniche that will transform the iconic Al-Khobar Water Tower area into a comprehensive tourism destination featuring international dining concepts, cafés overlooking the sea, an open-air theater, entertainment venues, retail spaces, and a signature restaurant offering panoramic city views.
Additionally, development activity continues across the Eastern Province with several hospitality projects, including Dusit Country Resort, Avani Coastal Resort, Dana InterContinental Resort, Marjan Island, and Marriott Half Moon Bay Hotel, underway. The region also represents the largest share of projects approved by the Saudi Tourism Development Fund, with 651 tourism projects supported to date. Key developments include Al-Khobar Avenues, Ritz-Carlton Resort, Fairmont Hotels, Nobu Hotels, Rixos Resort, and Shahl Resort in the UNESCO-listed Al-Ahsa Oasis, the world’s largest palm oasis.
Saudi Winter Program 2025
Launched by the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA), the Saudi Winter 2025 program reflects Saudi Arabia’s transformation into a year-round global tourism destination. The program brings together infrastructure development, destination diversity, and private-sector collaboration, offering more than 1,200 tourism products and over 600 exclusive offers, including family-friendly packages, seasonal discounts, and tailored experiences designed for a wide range of international traveler profiles.
