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.

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.

• Map
• Instagram
• Menu

Phone: +966(0)5331-06663

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 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 8086634 or 8086621.

Learn more

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.