As the second largest island in the Persian Gulf after Qeshm island, Tarout Island is a significant tourist attraction in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. The island is considered as one of the oldest human settlements in the Arabian Peninsula. Due to its unique history and the presence of various empires, the island is rich in culture, heritage, and tradition. Tourists can find old houses and historic buildings in some towns and villages that reveal a lot about the place. On the island, various parks and amusement zones have been developed along with several beaches providing fantastic sea views.
History of Tarout Island
Tarout island was discovered in 5000 BC, which makes it one of the most ancient sites and oldest places inhabited by humans along the Arabian Peninsula. It was named after Ishtarut or Ashtaroot, which means God of Love and War. The Dilmun kingdom ruled the place in 3000 BC and played a significant role in the history of the region. Later, the region was ruled by various empires, including the Persian Empire, Islamic Empire, Portuguese Empire, and Ottoman Empire. The island was very crucial in terms of trade activity in the entire Persian Gulf region. The island served as the center of this trade route, which stretched from Mesopotamia to the coastal regions in the eastern part of the Arabian Peninsula.
Top 6 tourist attractions on Tarout Island
1. Tarout Castle
It is one of the most visited spots on the island, and an important historical site on the coast of the Gulf Sea. The castle is situated on top of a hill in the center of Tarout Island and offers a stunning view of the surrounding area. It comprises the four towers, one of which was destroyed during a battle. It was built by the Portuguese as a military base in the 16th century when they invaded the Persian Gulf region. They used the castle to protect themselves from the attack of the Turks.
Address: Az Zomorod, 7444،, Tarout
Timings: Friday, 4 pm to 9 pm
2. Archaeological Collections
Being a historical place and ruled by several kingdoms, various archeological collections are found on Tarout Island that are of high value. The most important thing found on the island was the golden statue of the goddess Ashtaroot. It was found under the ground in one of the palm groves. Another crucial statue found was of a naked man made of a dark gray stone in 1950, and the man in the statue is in an attentive posture with large eyes. Several other statues, pottery vessels and weapons found on the island are present at the Riyadh museum. The Fortress of Al-Sheikh Muhammad bin Abdul Wahhab Al Fehani, Abu Al-leaf and three mosques are also located on the island.
3. Dareen Corniche
Darin Corniche is an ideal destination for tourists to organize a picnic with family and friends. A park and a children’s playground are close to the sea, making it a perfect area to enjoy and relax. Children’s entertainment options and inflated slides are also available on the corniche. Tourists can enjoy the evening with a beautiful sunset eating delicious food sold by local vendors at the corniche. There is also a mosque near the corniche where people can offer prayers.
4. Deerah Town
The town has some of the old buildings dating back to as much as 5000 BC. Though most of the buildings are either damaged or destroyed, the remaining ones provide a glimpse into the ancient times of the island. Additionally, few locals can still be found living in the houses situated in the Deerah Town. Tourists can take photos while visiting this historic town and relive the past of this ancient town.
5. Dareen Port
Dareen Port is a well-known location that dates back to the Greek era. The port was the primary center for trade between the Arabian peninsula, China, India and Africa. A variety of products from other countries arrived here, including ivory from Africa, valuable stones, spices, perfumes, musk and wood from India, and fabrics made of silk from China. During the 1880s, the extraction of pearls made Dareen port famous in the Persian Gulf. Tourists can visit the port to understand more about the old trade routes and purchase some souvenirs for family and friends.
6. Traveling markets
Traveling markets are one of the unique things to experience on Tarout Island. During most weekdays, markets move from one town to another on the island. Visitors can buy various products they want, such as groceries, utensils, clothes, books, etc.
Locations of traveling markets:
- Sunday market is in the neighborhood of Alhawwami and Alvesel
- Monday market is in Sanabis
- Tuesday market is in the Alenjimh
- Wednesday market is in Alrobaieyah
- Friday Market is in Dakhl Al-Mahdod
Things to Keep Mind While Visiting Tarout Island
- Visitors to the island should dress appropriately, in accordance with the laws and with respect to Saudi Arabian culture
- Since Al Qatif is not a metropolis area booking a taxi online to Tarout Island might take some time
- Visitors should hire a tour guide if they want to learn more about Tarout Island’s history and various locations
- Visitors should visit the island between November to March because of the pleasant weather during this period
Best time to visit Tarout Island
Tarout island experiences long and sweltering summers with temperature reaching upto 45 degrees Celsius. Whereas, the temperature remains moderately cool during winters from November to March with avg high of 25 degrees Celsius. Hence, tourists are suggested to visit the island in winters for a more wholesome experience.
How to reach Tarout Island
Tarout Island is located near Al Qatif of the Eastern Province. Tourists can use public transport or rented taxis to reach Qatif from Dammam, Dhahran or Khobar to reach Al Qatif. From there they can book a cab to reach Tarout Island.
Tarout Island is undoubtedly a great place to experience the rich culture and history of Saudi Arabia. In addition to historical sites, there are other locations like Dareen Corniche where people may spend quality time with their loved ones. Dareen Corniche consists of a playground, parks and amusement rides for fun.
Suggested Read: 15 Places To Visit In Jubail: Beaches, Malls, Parks, And More
Tarout Island FAQs
Which are the top hotels nearby Tarout Island?
Golden Garden Al Corniche, Tripper Inn, Sea Club Resort and Howard Johnson Dammam hotel are some hotels nearby where visitors can stay while on their trip.
Is entry to Tarout castle free?
Yes, entry to Tarout castle is free.
Are traveling markets open every day on the island?
Traveling markets are only open on Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday.
Which is the best time to visit Tarout Island?
November to March is the best time to visit Tarout Island.
