Al-Ahsa Airport

Al-Ahsa International Airport (HOF) is not merely an air gateway, but the starting point for a journey into the heart of one of the world's largest and oldest oases, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in the city of Al-Hofuf, this airport serves as a vital transport hub for the entire Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. Following a massive reconstruction completed in 2024, the airport has been significantly modernized to offer travelers contemporary comfort and a high level of service, combining these with a design inspired by local culture.

The main asset of Al-Ahsa Airport is its recent transformation. As part of the development project launched in 2024, two new international halls were built, and the total number of boarding gates reached ten. This allowed for a significant increase in capacity and reduced waiting times for passengers on both domestic and international flights. Additionally, the number of check-in counters and passport control desks was increased, making pre-flight formalities faster and more convenient.

Various services are available at the airport for the convenience of travelers. Here you can rent a car to explore the region on your own or use taxi services, with stands located at the terminal exit. Travelers arriving by private transport can use the parking lot, designed for more than 400 spaces. Inside the terminal, there are cafes and restaurants where you can grab a bite before your flight, tasting both international dishes and local delicacies.

If you need to contact representatives of Al-Ahsa International Airport (HOF), please use the following contact information. Note that the airport is managed by the Dammam Airports Company (DACO), so some contacts may lead to the management company's resources.

• Official Website: Current information about the airport's operations can be found on the Dammam Airports Company (DACO) website — www.daco.sa.
• Information Desk Phone: For general information, you can call: +966 9200 11135.
• Airport Address: Al-Ahsa International Airport (HOF), Al-Hofuf, Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia.
• Email: For general inquiries, you can use the management company's email address: info@daco.sa.
• Social Media: News and updates can be followed on DACO's official social media pages, for example, on X (formerly Twitter) — @DACO_SA.
• Lost Luggage Information: In case of loss or damage to luggage, you should first contact your airline's representative at the airport. Airline staff will provide all necessary assistance.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For questions related to service at the airport, you can contact the general information desk phone number.

Getting to Al-Ahsa International Airport (HOF) from the city of Al-Hofuf in Saudi Arabia is quite simple, as it is located just 17 kilometers southwest of the city center. The main modes of transport are taxis and rental cars, as public transport is not well developed.

Taxi and Transfer. This is the most convenient and popular way to get to the airport. You can use official city taxis or order a car via mobile apps popular in the country, such as Uber or Careem. The trip from the center of Al-Hofuf usually takes about 20-30 minutes depending on traffic conditions. The estimated cost of the trip is 50-70 Saudi Riyals. For greater convenience, you can book a private transfer in advance, especially if you are traveling with a lot of luggage or in a group.

Car Rental. If you prefer independence in your movements, car rental is an excellent option. Offices of both international and local rental companies operate in Al-Hofuf. You can rent a car in the city and return it at the company's representative office right at the airport before departure. This is particularly convenient for those planning to explore the Al-Ahsa Oasis and its surroundings.

Airport Parking. Parking is provided for those arriving at the airport in their own or rented vehicles. Usually, both short-term and long-term parking spaces are available. This is a convenient option if someone is seeing you off or if you are leaving your car for the duration of a short trip.

Public Transport. Direct public transport routes, such as buses or trains, from the city center to Al-Ahsa Airport are currently unavailable or their operation is extremely limited. Therefore, travelers are advised to rely on taxis or private transport to arrive on time for their flight.

For travelers seeking a wider choice of international destinations, it is worth considering larger airports in the region. Among them are King Fahd International Airport (DMM) in Dammam, located approximately 135 km away, and Bahrain International Airport (BAH) at a distance of about 159 km. Also within reach are Hamad International Airport (DOH) in Doha and King Khalid International Airport (RUH) in Riyadh.

Al-Ahsa Airport (HOF) is a modern and compact aviation hub distinguished by a simple and clear structure. The airport operates one passenger terminal, which serves both domestic and international flights. This significantly simplifies navigation for travelers, as there is no need to move between different buildings.

The terminal layout is intuitive. The building is divided into two main zones: departures and arrivals. Upon entering the terminal, passengers find themselves in a general hall where airline check-in counters are located. After receiving a boarding pass and checking in luggage, the security screening area follows. For international flights, passport control is additionally provided.

The departure zone is a comfortable waiting hall with sufficient seating. The boarding gates are also located here. Despite its modest size, the terminal has basic amenities, including small cafes and shops. The arrival zone is located separately and includes baggage claim belts and customs control for passengers arriving from abroad.

Completing all pre-flight formalities at Al-Ahsa Airport usually takes little time thanks to its compactness and the efficient work of services. On average, check-in and screening take from 30 to 60 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport in advance: 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international one, to avoid potential delays.

To navigate the terminal, simply follow the signs, which are in Arabic and English. The logical layout and absence of complex passageways make orientation in the space as simple as possible, even for those here for the first time. All key zones — from check-in to boarding gates — are within walking distance of each other.

The history of Al-Ahsa International Airport (HOF) in the city of Al-Hofuf is closely linked to the development of the entire Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. Originally established as a military base in the mid-20th century, it eventually began serving civilian flights as well. For a long time, the airport functioned exclusively as a domestic hub, providing air connections to major cities in the country, such as Riyadh and Jeddah, and playing an important role in logistics for oil industry workers.

A key moment in the airport's history was 2011, when, by decree of King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz, the decision was made to grant it international status. This step was dictated by growing economic needs and the large population of the Al-Ahsa region. By 2013, the airport received its first international flight, opening a new chapter in its development and making travel abroad significantly easier for local residents.

Obtaining international status led to massive modernization. Works were carried out to expand the passenger terminal, upgrade the runway, and install modern navigation equipment. Customs and passport control zones, necessary for servicing international flights, were established. These changes transformed the airport into a modern air gateway, ready to welcome tourists from all over the world wishing to visit the famous Al-Ahsa Oasis, included in the UNESCO World Heritage list.

Today, Al-Ahsa Airport is not just a transport hub, but an important infrastructure element contributing to economic growth and tourism development in the region. It continues to develop within the framework of the national Saudi Vision 2030 strategy, which envisages further improvement of the country's aviation industry. Despite its relatively recent international history, the airport has already proven its significance, becoming a convenient access point to one of the most unique cultural and natural regions of Saudi Arabia.

Al-Ahsa International Airport (HOF) offers passengers all necessary amenities for a comfortable wait for their flight. In the terminal, you will find several cafes and restaurants where you can have a snack with local or international cuisine or drink coffee before your flight. For those wishing to shop, there are stores, including Duty Free, offering a range of perfumes, cosmetics, sweets, and souvenirs.

For a more comfortable wait, the airport has a VIP lounge offering a secluded atmosphere, snacks, drinks, and fresh press. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and special stands and sockets for charging electronic devices are located in the waiting halls, so you can always stay connected.

For financial matters, ATMs and currency exchange points are provided at the airport. In case of need, a medical point operates in the terminal building, where qualified personnel are ready to provide first aid.

Travelers with children can use the mother and child room, equipped with everything necessary for baby care. The airport is also fully adapted for passengers with reduced mobility: there are ramps, specially equipped restrooms, and an assistance service is available, which is recommended to be booked in advance through the airline.

Although there are no hotels directly on the airport grounds, many accommodation options can be found in the nearby city of Al-Hofuf, which is easily accessible by taxi. There, in major hotels, conference halls and business centers are available for business travelers. Al-Ahsa Airport is an important regional transport hub serving both domestic and international flights in Saudi Arabia.

Al-Ahsa Airport (HOF), serving the city of Al-Hofuf and its surroundings, offers passengers basic but convenient options for a snack before departure. It is important to understand that this is a small regional airport, so the choice of establishments here is not as wide as in major international hubs. Nevertheless, you will be able to find everything necessary to refresh yourself or have a coffee while waiting for your flight.

The majority of dining establishments are located in the departure zone, after passing passport control and security screening (airside). As a rule, these are cozy coffee shops and small cafes where you can relax before boarding. In the public zone (landside), the choice may be more limited, so if you want a snack, it is better to do so in the "secure" zone. Establishments usually operate according to the flight schedule, opening a few hours before the first departure and closing after the last departure.

What you can find on the menu:

• For a quick snack: Local cafes will offer you a standard set: fresh pastries, sandwiches, salads, packaged snacks, as well as hot and cold drinks, including tea and several types of coffee.
• For a full meal: Options for a hearty lunch are limited. It is recommended to plan your main meal before arriving at the airport. However, in some cafes, you can find more substantial dishes, such as pasta or hot sandwiches.
• Local flavor: To experience the taste of Saudi Arabia, look for traditional Arabic coffee and date-based sweets, which are often offered in local coffee shops.

Regarding special dietary needs, all food at the airport is Halal by default. Vegetarians will be able to find salads or meat-free sandwiches. However, for travelers with strict restrictions, such as a vegan or gluten-free diet, the choice will be extremely small. In this case, it is safer to bring food with you. Prices for food and drinks correspond to the average level for airports, meaning they are slightly higher than in the city.

To ensure your journey through Al-Ahsa Airport in the city of Al-Hofuf goes smoothly and without unnecessary stress, use these helpful tips. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2-3 hours before international flights and 1.5-2 hours before domestic ones. This will give you enough time for all pre-flight formalities without rushing.

To save time, use online check-in if your airline provides this option. This will allow you to avoid queues at the check-in counters. Security screening procedures at the airport are standard but can be quite thorough. Prepare liquids (in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag) and electronic devices in advance to speed up the process.

When choosing a seat on the plane, be guided by your preferences. A window seat offers beautiful views during takeoff and landing, while an aisle seat offers more legroom and the ability to stand up freely without disturbing neighbors. Seats in emergency exit rows usually offer extra space but may require an additional fee.

You are allowed to take personal items, electronics, and liquids in limited volume in your carry-on luggage. Sharp objects, flammable substances, and weapons are strictly prohibited. Always check your airline's rules, as different carriers may have their own restrictions on the weight and dimensions of carry-on luggage.

When planning a trip to Saudi Arabia, pay special attention to customs regulations. The import of alcohol, pork and pork products, as well as materials that may be considered contrary to local cultural and religious norms, is strictly prohibited. If you are in doubt whether a particular item can be imported, it is better to declare it or clarify the rules in advance.

If you have a connecting flight, clarify in advance whether you will need to collect and re-check your luggage. Leave a sufficient time margin between flights, especially if you are flying with different airlines. This will save you from unpleasant surprises in case of a delay on the first flight.

To save money, book flight tickets and airport transfers in advance. Prices for food and drinks at the airport are generally higher, so you can bring permitted snacks with you. Use a reusable water bottle, which can be filled after passing security screening.

In case of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline's counter for current information. Learn about your rights: depending on the length of the delay, you may be provided with drinks, meals, or even hotel accommodation. Having travel insurance will help compensate for unforeseen expenses.