Thuwal, a city on the Red Sea coast of Saudi Arabia, has a rich history dating back to its days as a fishing center.

• Fishing and Pearl Diving Heritage: Thuwal was historically known for its fishing industry, particularly during the reign of King Abdulaziz and King Saud. The city’s fishermen would embark on 2-9 month journeys to search for pearls and oysters.
• Commercial Center: Thuwal served as an important commercial center, receiving exports from ports in Eritrea and Sudan, such as Massawa and Suakin.
• Royal Saudi Navy Reconstruction: The Royal Saudi Navy played a significant role in reconstructing the village, transforming it into the thriving city it is today.
• Modern Development: Thuwal is now home to the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), a prestigious research university founded in 2009. The city is also experiencing growth due to its proximity to the King Abdullah Economic City.
• Cultural Significance: Thuwal’s strategic location and historical heritage make it a significant cultural and economic hub in the region.

Today, Thuwal attracts visitors with its seafood restaurants and historical landmarks, offering a unique blend of traditional and modern attractions

Top-Rated Seafood Restaurants in Thuwal

• Al Sayed Seafood Restaurant: Known for its economic prices and great taste, serving fresh fish with good spice. Try their grilled fish, fried shrimp, or mixed rice dishes.
  • Address: Old Mecca Road, Thuwal
  • Contact: +966 54 999 9430
• Barracuda Seafood: Offers seafood, barbecue, and grill options in a modern setting.
  • Address: Al-Madinah Al-Munawarah Road, Thuwal 23953, Saudi Arabia
  • Contact: +966 55 562 0023

Popular Seafood Dishes to Try

• Grilled Fish: Fresh fish grilled to perfection, often served with mixed rice or as part of a seafood platter.
• Fried Shrimp: Crispy fried shrimp, often served with mixed rice or as part of a seafood platter.
• Mixed Rice: A flavorful dish made with rice, seafood, and spices.
• Seafood Platters: A selection of seafood dishes, often including grilled fish, fried shrimp, and other seafood options.

Seafood Markets

• Yanbu Fish Market: A clean and organized market with a wide variety of fresh fish and seafood, located in Yanbu.
• Central Fish Market: A big and organized market with extensive seafood options, although prices might be higher than supermarkets.

Tips for Dining at Seafood Restaurants

• Check the menu: Seafood restaurants often have a wide variety of dishes, so be sure to check the menu before ordering.
• Ask for recommendations: If you’re new to seafood or unsure about what to order, ask your server for recommendations.
• Be prepared for freshness: Seafood is often served fresh, so be prepared for a flavorful and potentially messy meal.

Pakistani food in Thuwal, Saudi Arabia:

Pakistani Restaurant in Thuwal.

• Al Khaybar Pakistani Restaurant: This restaurant is a popular spot for traditional Pakistani cuisine in Thuwal. They offer a variety of dishes, including kebabs, biryani, and karahi. You can contact them at +966 59 876 0870 for more information or to make a reservation.

Popular Pakistani Dishes to Try

• Kebabs: Pakistani kebabs are a must-try, with options like:
  • Chapli kebabs: a type of kebab made with minced meat and spices
  • Tikka boti kebabs: marinated meat skewers grilled to perfection
  • Malai boti kebab: a creamy and flavorful kebab made with marinated meat
• Biryani: a flavorful rice dish made with marinated meat and spices, biryani is a staple in Pakistani cuisine. You can try:
  • Chicken biryani
  • Beef biryani
  • Mutton biryani
• Karahi: a spicy stew made with meat or vegetables, karahi is a popular dish in Pakistani restaurants. You can try:
  • Chicken karahi
  • Beef karahi
  • Mixed vegetable karahi
• Nihari: a slow-cooked stew made with meat and spices, nihari is a rich and flavorful dish.

Other Options in Nearby Cities

If you’re looking for more options, consider checking out Pakistani restaurants in nearby cities like Jeddah or Riyadh. Some popular options include:

• Quetta Grill: known for its authentic Pakistani grills and reasonable prices
• Shinwari: offers great food, scenic views, and fine dining options
• Spice Village: provides a wide variety of Pakistani and Indian dishes, including buffet options
• Zouq Mughal: offers a family-friendly atmosphere and a range of traditional Pakistani dishes

Tips for Dining at Pakistani Restaurants

• Check the menu: Pakistani restaurants often have a wide variety of dishes, so be sure to check the menu before ordering.
• Ask for recommendations: if you’re new to Pakistani cuisine, ask your server for recommendations on popular dishes.
• Be prepared for spicy food: Pakistani cuisine is known for its spicy flavors, so be prepared for a flavorful meal.