Overview of the City
Al Khobar, part of Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province, is a modern city known for its beautiful Corniche, thriving commercial areas, and close proximity to Dammam and Bahrain. It is home to a vibrant Indian expatriate community, enriched by cultural associations and community-driven initiatives from various states of India. With its excellent infrastructure, family-friendly environment, and strong community ties, Al Khobar is a popular destination for Indian professionals and families alike.
Housing : Affordable Neighborhoods
Al Khobar offers a variety of affordable and comfortable residential neighborhoods favored by Indian expatriates :
- Shamaliya Al Khobar : Also referred to as Al Khobar Al Shamaliyah, this neighborhood is known for its peaceful streets and spacious villas, making it ideal for families.
Rakah : A serene residential area that not only offers spacious apartments and villas but also hosts Indian schools, making it a preferred choice for families with children.
Al Aqrabiyah : Renowned for its affordability, Al Aqrabiyah provides easy access to shopping centers and Indian restaurants.
Thuqbah : A vibrant area near the city center, Thuqbah offers a mix of residential and commercial spaces suitable for various budgets.
Restaurants : Indian Food Spots
Al Khobar boasts a range of authentic Indian dining options, catering to diverse tastes and regional preferences :
- Maharaja by Vineet : Located on Prince Turkey Street, this upscale restaurant offers gourmet Indian dishes crafted by Michelin-starred chef Vineet Bhatia.
Classic Restaurant : Known for its South Indian specialties like Kerala thali in a casual dining setup.
- Queen of India : Situated in Villaggio Restaurant Village, this eatery serves a variety of North Indian classics.
These restaurants, along with Indian grocery stores like Lulu Hypermarket and Gulf Mart, ensure that Indian expatriates can enjoy the flavors of home.
Transportation : Public/Private Options
Al Khobar provides various transportation options to suit the needs of Indian expatriates :
- Public Transport: Affordable buses operated by SAPTCO connect Al Khobar with neighboring cities.
Ride-Hailing Services : Apps like Careem and Uber are widely available, offering reliable and transparent pricing.
Private Cars : Many expatriates choose to lease or purchase vehicles for greater flexibility. Leasing companies offer a variety of plans tailored to different budgets.
- Taxis : While traditional taxis are available, ride-hailing services are generally more convenient.
Walking and Cycling : The Corniche area offers well-maintained pathways, perfect for leisure activities.
Emergency Services: Clinics, Pharmacies, Police
Al Khobar provides robust emergency services to ensure the safety and well-being of its residents :
- Dr. Bakhsh Hospital : Offers comprehensive healthcare services with multilingual staff.
- Al Mana General Hospital :Â Known for its wide range of medical specialties and emergency care.
- Abeer Medical Group : A popular choice among expatriates for affordable healthcare.
- Nahdi Pharmacy : Operates 24/7 and offers a wide range of medications and health products.
- Al Dawaa Pharmacy :Â Known for its extensive inventory, including international brands.
- Emergency Numbers :
- Dial 999 for law enforcement assistance.
- Ambulance: Dial 997 for medical emergencies.
- Fire Services: Dial 998 for fire-related incidents.
The Indian Embassy and Consulate in Dammam also provide consular support and legal assistance for Indian nationals in the Eastern Province.
