About Qatif — Arabia's Ancient City
Qatif (Arabic: القطيف) is one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the Arabian Peninsula, with a history spanning more than 6,000 years. Located on the Arabian Gulf coast in Saudi Arabia's Eastern Province, the city is celebrated for its date palm gardens, traditional coral-stone architecture, vibrant heritage souqs, and the historic Tarout Island.
The city was mentioned in ancient records as a major port and trading centre during the Dilmun civilisation (3rd–1st millennium BC), through the Phoenician, Greek, and Islamic eras, to the Portuguese colonial period in the 16th century. Today Qatif preserves this extraordinary layered heritage while serving as a modern residential city for Eastern Province residents.
Qatif & Tarout Island — Key Attractions
Tarout Castle (Portuguese Fort)
A 16th-century Portuguese fort built on the ruins of much earlier civilisations on Tarout Island. The castle overlooks the sea and is surrounded by the old Qatif Souk. It is one of the best-preserved historical forts in the Eastern Province.
Dilmun Burial Mounds & Archaeological Sites
Tarout Island contains numerous burial mounds and artefacts from the ancient Dilmun civilisation (c. 3000 BC). Saudi Arabia has nominated the Dilmun burial mounds for UNESCO World Heritage status.
Tarout Traditional Fishing Harbour
A picturesque working harbour where traditional fishing boats dock alongside coral-stone warehouses. Fresh seafood is sold daily at the Tarout fish market — one of the most authentic seafood markets in the Eastern Province.
Qatif Corniche
A scenic waterfront promenade along the Arabian Gulf coast with parks, family seating areas, and views across to Tarout Island. Popular for evening walks and weekend gatherings.
Qatif Date Palm Gardens
Qatif has been famous for its high-quality Khalas dates for thousands of years. The city's date markets are especially active during the Ramadan and Eid seasons when the finest varieties are sold.
Qatif Old Town (Al Balad Al Qadim)
The historic old quarter of Qatif features traditional coral-stone houses with ornate wooden doorways and wind towers (barjeels) — a remarkable example of traditional Gulf architecture.
All Taxi Routes from Qatif
Frequently Asked Questions — Qatif Taxi
How far is Qatif from Dammam Airport?
55 km · 40–50 minutes. We provide direct airport-to-Qatif transfers with meet & greet at the arrivals hall and 60-minute free waiting from your landing time.
How do I get to Tarout Island from the airport?
Tarout Island is 55 km from DMM Airport — 45–55 minutes by private taxi. We deliver directly to Tarout Castle, the old souq, and all island locations.
Is Qatif worth visiting as a tourist?
Absolutely. Qatif and Tarout Island are among the Eastern Province's richest cultural destinations. Tarout Castle, Dilmun burial mounds, traditional date markets, and the Qatif Old Town offer a genuine Arabian heritage experience.
Can I visit Qatif as a day trip from Dammam or Khobar?
Yes. Qatif is 35 km from Dammam city (30 minutes) and 40 km from Al Khobar (35 minutes). It makes a perfect half-day or full-day cultural excursion from either city.