ASD Middle School Students Explore Culture and History On AlHasa WOW Trip

American School Dhahran’s commitment to experiential learning and cultural connection was on full display during its first in-Kingdom WOW trip of the 2025–26 school year, organized in partnership with the Saudi Friendship Organization for middle school students.

The program brought 24 middle school students on an enriching journey to Al-Ahsa, beginning with a train ride that immediately set an energetic and engaging tone. Upon arrival at the organization’s headquarters, students participated in an interactive session focused on Saudi slang, enthusiastically exchanging expressions and drawing connections to languages spoken in their own homes.

Students then explored the historic Al-Ahsa souq, where narrow, winding alleys and traditional shops offered a glimpse into the region’s past. Many students took the opportunity to purchase gifts for their families, deepening their connection to the local culture. The group later visited Qasr Ibrahim, a 16th century Ottoman era fortress renowned for its blend of Islamic and military architecture and recognized as part of the UNESCO-listed Al-Ahsa Oasis.

Cultural immersion continued with a traditional majlis lunch featuring mandi, followed by a visit to the Al-Ahsa Date Festival, one of the trip’s highlights. Students sampled a wide variety of dates and date-based treats, including the popular date mojito, while learning how the area’s soil and climate have positioned Al-Ahsa as a center for date cultivation and trade.

On the second day, students visited Al-Qarah Mountain, a 75-meter-high mesa and UNESCO World Heritage site, where they explored naturally cool caves carved into the rock. The journey continued at the Heritage Academy, where students participated in a hands-on pottery workshop led by Ms. Zeina, creating their own pieces using a pottery wheel. A stop at the iconic Red Bakery, famous for its date filled bread topped with date molasses, concluded the cultural experience.

The trip ended with a return train journey, marking the conclusion of a memorable and meaningful learning experience that reflected ASD’s dedication to global minded education, cultural appreciation and learning beyond the classroom. The experience would not have been possible without the thoughtful organization and support of the chaperones, whose dedication helped make this trip truly unforgettable: Ms. Raazia Ahmed, Ms. Nida Ghanayem and Mr. Oscar Caldwell.