One popular activity in Khobar is riding ATVs on the coast of the Arabian Gulf south of town. It's a lot of fun to run up and down the sand dunes or just along the beach in an ATV at 40 miles per hour. Most of the places where you can rent ATVs are managed by locals who do not speak English. While it is ideal to be accompanied by an Arabic-speaking companion, a visitor with a minimal level of cross-cultural communications skills will usually have no problem reaching an agreement. Prices vary depending on the operator and the size and quality of the ATVs. 80 to 120 Riyal an hour is usually considered a fair rate.
The coast south of Khobar along "Half-Moon Bay" also has numerous beaches. Many of these have shaded sitting areas, trash cans and showers. Closer to town most of the beaches are family only, but approximately 40 km south there are a number which are open to singles. Camping and campfires are permitted or at least tolerated. The water throughout this area is incredibly shallow and warm and their is little to no tide or wave action. That said, most of the beaches have decent sand, are large enough to get away from the crowds and are relatively clean.
The Rashid Mall and Mall of Dhahran are Khobar's 2 biggest malls and are comparable to those found in western countries. Both offer many stores you would find there, and both offer large food halls with well-known outlets as well as Middle Eastern versions and specialists. For those with families, both of these malls have amusement parks. when visiting these malls it is important to watch out for women and family only areas. While the women only section of Rashid Mall is clearly designated, the family only areas of the Mall of Dhahran are marked with fairly small signs hanging from the ceiling and are not that obvious due to their height above ground level.
For those unfamiliar with the Middle East, central Khobar, with it's traffic and crowded streets, may feel a bit intimidating. Generally speaking, the visitor will not feel unsafe but may feel somewhat alone on the streets. The downtown area, especially near the waterfront, is highly-developed and gentrified, with many name-brand and Western eateries, coffee-shops and retailers. It is a bustling area with magnificent local food and good buys on merchandise though quality may vary. Restaurant workers downtown will cater specially to Westerners. Prices vary, but tend to be reasonable - it is often possible to have a wonderful dinner downtown at a cafe of lamb, beef liver, chicken, rice, bread, falafel, veggies, and more for only the equivalent of $10 USD total for 4 people.
Other Fun place in Khobar is Golf World, a nice place to enjoy playing Golf with your Friends, Family and Kids. It is 4 screen golf rooms and a 3 Cushion Billiard table. The place is in Makkah St. Olaya Center- Olaya area Aqrrubiah Before Make reservation by calling 889-7078
