The Al-Hassa oasis: the largest oasis in the world

AUNESCO World Heritage Site, the Al-Hassa palm grove is a paradise in the middle of arid lands. Surrounded by the plains of the Rub Al Khali, which means "Quarter of the Emptiness", the oasis had and continues to have a real function in the daily lives of the region's inhabitants. This shady passage has been used for thousands of years as a trade route. Merchants and their caravans, filled with valuables and other resources, would come here for a break. As a result, this fertile land became the beating heart of the Arabian Peninsula, linking the country's cities. Pilgrims on their way to Mecca also stop here.

The millions of palm trees are irrigated by a system of canals, wells and other natural water sources. The taming of this very dry environment is thought to date back to the Neolithic period, as traces of human occupation have also been found! In short, this oasis is nothing new. This kind of nature reserve management is a real example to follow.

The date palms are pampered by the entire oasis team. Pampered all year round, they produce delicious dates. The Saudi government has ensured that the surplus dates harvested each year are donated to the United Nations Food Programme.

The mountains that border the Al-Hassa park and oasis are also a marvel to behold. The rocky massifs are actually a series of limestone caves that owe their shape to a process of weathering. It's an enjoyable visit for all the family. The ambient temperature varies between 20 and 24 degrees throughout the year. So if you're a little chilly, pack a jacket in your rucksack.

The formation of the rocks is unique in the world. Their shapes are a leap into the past, testifying to the millions of years it took for water to gradually dissolve these stones.

Virtually all the caves are open to the public, the best known being Al Nashab, Bu Saleh, Al Eid, An Naqa, Al Mua'adhamah and Al Maheub. Other caves are of great interest to cavers and explorers, and are currently being renovated to make them more accessible to tourists.

The best known,Eid, is also the largest. The villagers of Al-Qarah used to meet in this one to pray during Eid. Other discreet meetings were held here, out of sight. The atmosphere of the cave is special: it is naturally lit by a ray of sunlight that passes through its cracks. It's still an important meeting place for the locals, as weddings are celebrated here from time to time!

The "Land of Civilisations" museum is also a fun activity to do with the whole family. You'll find an account of the legends and stories that give this place so much magic, and a more in-depth explanation of the geology of the Al-Qarah rocks.

The caves are also used for pottery workshops.

TheAl-Hassa Oasis is a place steeped in history: ancestral caves, the world's largest palm grove, vestiges of ancient civilisations... the list goes on. So it comes as no surprise to learn that the former palace of the founder of the Saudi monarchy is located here!

The Ibrahim Palace, built in 1521 under the Ottoman Empire, is a real gem of Saudi architecture. You can also visit King Abdelaziz's bedroom and part of the Al-Mulla House. They are overflowing with treasures, period clothing and other valuable objects. A real feast for the eyes.

This residence, with its high walls and seven defensive towers, was used to house the soldiers of the Ottoman army. Over the years, the palace expanded and became a fortress, then a prison, before being opened to the public and tourists. With its mosque and Turkish baths, the palace occupies 1.6 hectares!