About Souq Al Qaisariah

Souq Al Qaisariah or Qaisariya Souk is a 200 years old, open-air traditional market in Saudi Arabia. The market has played a vital role in the economy of Al-Ahsa since the past, dated back to 1822. The market spreads over about 7,000 square meters and is home to around 420 shops. Located in the heart of Al-Hasa, the market is a summary of the history, culture, and economy of the country. Planning to explore this historical market for a day while visiting Hofuf is obviously a bliss to the tourists. Traditional Arabian items like spices, incense, baskets, garments, perfumes, and colorful teapots are the main attractions of the market. With the passage of time, the market has turned out as a cultural spot, not just a shopping venue. It is well-preserved to show ancient Arabian times and traditional Arabic architecture.

In the year 2000, Souq Al Qaisariah was unfortunately destroyed in a fire. However, the government renovated the whole area and was successful in retaining its old pattern. One of the remarkable features of the market is “Kabnaks.” It is a type of furniture, which can be found on the doors of the shops. The furniture consists of three parts. Two parts are set on the floor to sit on and store food. Another part is fixed on the wall above the shop owner. Weekdays except for Mondays, Tuesdays, and Saturdays in the afternoon are the best time to explore the market. Keep in mind the rich and conservative culture of Saudi Arabia while exploring the market and communicating with the shop owners. 

Must See

  • The historical shops at the market
  • Traditional souvenirs
  • The traditional culture of the shop owners
  • Authentic vintage Arabic jewelry
  • Intricate craftsmanship of carpets handwoven by the store owners

How to reach

By Car: A taxi from Al Hofuf to Qaisariah souq takes only a couple of minutes. The distance is 1.9 kilometers and the ride costs between 15 to 19 SAR

By Foot: It takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes to walk to the market from Al Hofuf city center

Tips

  • Try to avoid the busiest days of the week, namely Monday, Tuesday, and Saturday
  • Apply sun protection lotion before going out to avoid getting sunburnt
  • Best time to visit the market is during the afternoon
  • Try to learn some useful Arabic terms before visiting
  • Seek permission before taking photographs of local people
  • Check out “Kabnaks”, traditional furniture item of the region
  • Perfumes, spices, carpets, and jewelry are the best things to buy
  • Drink only bottled water
  • Do not litter 
  • Be polite to locals as well as other visitors

Visit Time

Sunday:                 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Monday:                 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Tuesday:                3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Wednesday:           3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Thursday:               3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Friday:                    3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Saturday:                3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

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Waiting Time

No

 

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Entrance Fee

No

 

Time you can spend Icon

Time you can spend

1 to 3 hours

 

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Weather

Clear Sky 34.15°C

 

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