Tarout Island
Island Historic island in the Persian Gulf with ancient settlements
Near the Saudi Gulf coast, Tarout Island hosts one of the region’s oldest settlements with fortifications, mosques and seaside markets; visitors explore historical streets, local seafood and views across the Eastern Province.
Tarout Island is an island in the Persian Gulf off the eastern coast of Saudi Arabia, within the Eastern Province. It is one of the historical islands in the Qatif area and has long been occupied for fishing, trade and settlement.
The island contains an old town with traditional architecture, local markets and archaeological remains including older structures and burial sites that attest to long-term habitation. It functions today as a local residential and commercial centre for the surrounding Gulf coast.
Archaeological finds and the island’s historic port role indicate continuous settlement and regional trade contacts across antiquity and the medieval period. Local livelihoods have been based on fishing, date cultivation and small-scale trade.
Tarout sits close to the Saudi mainland near the city of Qatif in the Eastern Province, in the shallow waters of the Persian Gulf.
- Location and character: Located off the coast of the Qatif area in Saudi Arabia's Eastern Province, it has a long local history as a fishing and trading settlement.
How to Get to Tarout Island #
Tarout Island is reachable by causeway/bridge from the Saudi mainland near Qatif; drive from Dammam or nearby cities. Local roads connect points of interest on the island.
Tips for Visiting Tarout Island #
- Explore Tarout Castle for layered history and good views over the inner island.
- Visit the local souq to see daily life and local seafood specialties.
- Respect local customs - conservative dress and behavior are expected in public spaces.
Best Time to Visit Tarout Island #
Best visited in winter months for comfortable temperatures and outdoor exploring.
Weather & Climate near Tarout Island #
Tarout Island's climate is classified as Hot Desert - Hot Desert climate with very hot summers (peaking in July) and mild winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 11°C to 41°C. Very dry conditions with minimal rainfall with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 19°C and lows of 11°C. Light rainfall.
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February
February is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 12°C. Light rainfall.
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March
March is mild with highs of 25°C and lows of 15°C. Light rainfall.
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April
April is warm with highs of 31°C and lows of 20°C. Almost no rain and partly cloudy skies.
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May
May is hot, feeling like 30°C. The driest month with just 0 mm.
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June
June is hot with highs of 40°C and lows of 27°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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July
July is the hottest month with highs of 41°C and lows of 29°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and mostly sunny skies.
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August
August is hot, feeling like 38°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and mostly sunny skies.
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September
September is hot, feeling like 34°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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October
October is hot, feeling like 29°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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November
November is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 18°C. Almost no rain and mostly sunny skies.
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December
December is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 13°C. Almost no rain.
