Tarout Island

Tarout lies in the bay at Qatif, joined to the mainland by causeways, and it is one of the longest continuously inhabited places in the Gulf: excavation on the tell under the castle has produced material going back to the fifth millennium BC, and the island is associated with Dilmun and with early trade between Mesopotamia and the Indus. The castle itself is a ruin of uncertain date, probably Portuguese-period work on much older foundations, standing on the mound above the Tarout spring. Around it the old Deira quarter holds coral-stone and mud houses with carved doors, many derelict, and Bin Jumaa house has been restored. Date gardens fill the island's interior.

What you actually see

• Tarout castle - the ruined fort on the ancient tell.
• The Deira quarter - the old coral and mud houses around the castle.
• Bin Jumaa house - the restored merchant house on the island.
• The date gardens - the palm plantations across the interior.

When to go

November to March; the Eastern Province is hot and humid in summer. Mornings are best for the old quarter. The site is open access with no fixed hours.

Honest expectations

The castle is a ruin with limited stabilisation and access to parts is fenced. Much of the old quarter is derelict and unsafe. There is no interpretation on site. Qatif traffic and parking are difficult.

Nearby

Qatif lies across the causeway; Dammam is south.