At 12km across, Sabkhat Umm Hishah is one of the largest lakes in the region and a great place for relaxing around the water’s edge and spending a night camped around a fire. As you zigzag around the lake, there are plenty of places for you to stop and enjoy the view. A seasonal pop-up café can be found on its shores during the cooler months.

Sabkhat Umm Hishah

Also known as Yellow Lake and Al Asfar Lake, Sabkhat Umm Hishah is a nature reserve located on the outskirts of Al Hufuf city. It was formed by the runoff from 22,000 farms in the Al Ahsa region, one of the world’s largest oases. The shoreline varies between being wet, moist, semi-dry and dry throughout the year. These diverse conditions lead to a surprisingly large variety of plant species growing in the area. Sabkhat Umm Hishah is a real treat for enthusiastic birdwatchers as it attracts migratory birds. The winter is a particularly good time to visit as birds stop at the lake to breed.

Lake View

Driving along the lake’s shoreline, you’ll find several vantage points to admire the lake and nearby hills. Make sure you take a picnic, do some exploring and enjoy the sun setting over the water. If you have a sandboard, park at the summit of a dune and slide your way towards the water’s edge.

RESPECT THE ENVIRONMENT

Remember to pay extra attention and proceed with caution when driving near plants. The desert is a unique ecosystem, home to a variety of wildlife fighting to survive. It is crucial to practice responsible off-road driving so that you can minimise your environmental impact.