The village of Thuwal is KAUST’s closest neighbor, located immediately to the south of the KAUST community. Thuwal is a traditional Hijazi village and is well known for being a center for fishing and fish restaurants.
Thuwal Downtown
Thuwal is a short 10-minute drive from the KAUST community and has many restaurants and shops to explore. There are a variety of traditional restaurants as well as auto mechanics, stores for crafts, household goods, clothing, groceries, hardware and more. Most shops close for prayer times, so remember to check prayer times while planning a visit.
Thuwal Corniche
Here you will find a wide promenade, a marina for fishing, opportunities to buy freshly caught fish, and the popular Fish & Hook restaurant.
The Fish and Hook restaurant, located in a picturesque spot on the Corniche, features a variety of fresh local seafood with a traditional atmosphere.
Phone: +966(0)53-310-6663
To make your experience extra special, we recommend hiring one of our private boats to enjoy a business or personal dinner at the Fish and Hook restaurant or book a spot on the new weekly boat trip.
Getting to Thuwal on the Manta Boat
You can now book a boat trip every Monday to visit the Thuwal Corniche or to eat at the Thuwal Restaurants. The Boat will depart from the Al Marsa Marina at 5:30 p.m. and return from the Thuwal port at 7:30 p.m.
For booking, please email marinebookings@kaust.edu.sa or call 012-808-6634 or 012-808-6621.
Other transportation options are available including buses. They are scheduled every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday to Thuwal Downtown. To book your trip and check the exact timing, click here.