QATIF, AL-

also spelled Katif, town and oasis, northeastern Saudi Arabia. It lies along the Persian Gulf, over Al-Qatif petroleum field. Since the development of the oil fields in the late 1940s, Al-Qatif has lost its status as an important port to Ad-Dammam. In addition to several oil wells, Al-Qatif has oil-gas separator plants, pipelines, and large residential quarters for workers. A major irrigation project (completed 1964) transformed the oasis into one of the largest agricultural areas in Saudi Arabia, producing dates, alfalfa, rice, fruits, and vegetables. Pop. (1963 est.) 11,795.