A predominantly Shi'ite town on the Persian Gulf, around 250 mi/400 km northeast of Riyadh, Qatif has a lovely market and friendly people. Many of its buildings date back 300-400 years, though some have been vandalized by souvenir hunters.
Because of the Shi'ite influence, demonstrations against the national government have been known to occur in the town, though not in recent years. Travelers are advised to stay clear of any such gathering.
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