Uqair Port is the oldest seaport in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and one of the most significant historical landmarks reflecting the beginnings of trade in the Arabian Peninsula. The name Uqair originates from the ancient tribe of Ujair, which inhabited the region as early as the first millennium B.C. Since then, the port has stood as a timeless symbol of Al-Ahsa’s maritime and commercial heritage.
Before the discovery of oil, Uqair Port served as the main commercial gateway to the Eastern Province, playing a pivotal role in trade routes connecting Najd, the Gulf, and India. It was a bustling hub where caravans and ships exchanged goods, linking inland markets with seafaring trade networks across the Arabian Gulf. Over the centuries, Uqair became a cornerstone of regional commerce and cultural exchange.
Architecturally, the port showcases the essence of traditional coastal Saudi design. Its structures were built using coral stone, gypsum, and local wood, offering natural insulation against the region’s heat and humidity. Visitors can still explore the historic Uqair Fortress, the defensive walls, watchtowers, and the old Uqair Mosque, which once welcomed travelers and sailors seeking rest and prayer during their journeys.
Today, Uqair Port remains a living testament to the rich maritime history of Al-Ahsa, attracting visitors from across Saudi Arabia and beyond. Its serene atmosphere, golden shores, and preserved ruins offer a window into the ancient world of Arabian trade and exploration.
With Wadi Trip, you can visit Uqair Port as part of our curated heritage tours in Al-Ahsa, where history, architecture, and the spirit of discovery merge to tell the story of one of Saudi Arabia’s earliest and most iconic ports.
