Panama,
When exactly have you been to Saudi?
Mutt,
I think he meant DHA.
seawings,
As for where to stay. The only new
hotel would be the Holiday Inn which is not far from the airport.
As for what to do, unless you know someone that lives in the area, not alot.
No real bargains in Khobar and no good places to eat. With the exception of some of the compounds, where again you need to know someone.
As has been said, if you can get an exit/re-entry visa, you should go to Bahrain (better to take a taxi @SR250 each way) and spend the time there.
But as mutt said: "When entering on a crew visa you will not be permitted to go to Bahrain."