Dammam, a city in Saudi Arabia, is the third largest in the country. It's the capital of the Dammam Governorate and sits about 38 meters above sea level. The city covers an area of about 1,500 square kilometers. Dammam is known for its rich culture, historic homes, and museums.
For tourists, Dammam has a lot to offer. There are beautiful beaches, historical sites that share stories from the country's past, an international airport, and various hotels. You can enjoy water sports and shopping. One famous place is Abu Al-Feda House, which is one of the oldest houses in Dammam.
Here are a few points to add to your Dammam travel guide:
When in Saudi Arabia, follow these cultural guidelines to add to your Dammam travel guide:
Explore a variety of products, from stylish attire and accessories to perfumes and footwear. Dammam offers the perfect destination for weekend getaways with loved ones. Discover some of the city's renowned malls:
Othaim Mall:
Marina Mall:
Al Shatea Mall:
Al Zawiah Souq:
Dammam's nightlife offers a unique blend of entertainment, culture, and relaxation, making it a vibrant destination after sundown. While alcohol is not widely available, there are plenty of other options for a memorable night out.
Saudi Arabia uses the Saudi riyal (SAR) as its official currency. Visitors can exchange their local currency at airports upon arrival, with US dollars or euros being the preferred options. Riyals are available in notes of 5, 10, 50, 100, and 500, while coins come in 1 riyal and 2 riyal denominations. Riyals are further divided into halala, with coins with values of 50, 25, 10, 5, and 1. ATMs are conveniently located in airports and shopping malls.
A 5 percent VAT is applied to goods and services. While some restaurants and department stores include VAT in their prices, others do not. It's advisable to inquire about the VAT policy when making significant purchases.
Dammam, situated in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia along the Arabian Gulf, has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. Historically, it was a small fishing village and a center for pearl diving, profiting from the region's abundant marine resources.
The transformation of Dammam began with the discovery of oil in the region in the 1930s, which led to rapid urbanization and economic development. Dammam played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Kingdom's oil industry, serving as a crucial port for oil exports.
The city's history is closely tied to the Kingdom's overall development, and it has witnessed significant modernization and infrastructure growth over the years. Today, Dammam is a major economic and industrial hub in Saudi Arabia, hosting various oil and petrochemical industries.
With its strategic location and historical significance in the oil industry, Dammam remains a vital city in Saudi Arabia, connecting the Kingdom to the global energy market and contributing to the country's continued growth and prosperity.
In Saudi Arabia, the official language is Arabic, and tourists who don't speak Arabic need not be overly concerned, as many Saudis are proficient in English to some extent. Road signs are typically in both Arabic and English, facilitating navigation for foreigners. While English-speaking visitors can manage without Arabic, a few key phrases can endear them to locals in Dammam tourism.
Dammam, like the rest of Saudi Arabia, is predominantly Islamic. Islam plays a central role in daily life, with the city's culture and traditions deeply influenced by religious practices. Mosques are significant landmarks, and Islamic festivals and rituals are observed with great reverence, reflecting the devout faith of the local population.
Dammam may not have as many famous religious sites as other Saudi cities, but there are a few noteworthy places of worship:
Planning your budget for Dammam tourism is essential to make the most of your visit. Here's an approximate daily budget per person for Dammam tourism:
Accommodation:
Food:
Transportation:
Activities:
Miscellaneous:
Total Daily Budget Range:
Here is a suggested 7-day itinerary for Dammam tourism:
Day 1: Arrival in Dammam
Day 2: Exploring Dammam
Day 3: Day Trip to Al Khobar
Day 4: Historical Sites
Day 5: Day Trip to Dhahran
Day 6: Shopping and Souvenirs
Day 7: Relaxation and Departure
Dammam, a significant city in Saudi Arabia, offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From beautiful beaches and rich heritage sites to vibrant souks and family-friendly malls, Dammam provides an array of experiences for travelers. As you explore its streets and partake in local customs, you'll discover the heart of this city and create lasting memories of your journey.
Whether strolling along the corniche, shopping for unique souvenirs, or engaging in its cultural tapestry, Dammam's diverse attractions await your discovery, making it a fascinating destination for an enriching vacation.
A. Dammam is most enjoyable from October to March, during the winter season when the desert city experiences pleasant and cool weather.
A. Dammam is famous as Saudi Arabia's oil hub, with a thriving oil industry.
It's the sixth most populous city in the country, after Riyadh, Jeddah, Mecca, Medina, and Khamis Mushait.
Dammam is renowned for its coastal tourism, historical sites, and beautiful promenades by the sea.
A. No, Dammam is a budget-friendly tourist destination that offers great value. A trip to Dammam typically costs between $1,000 to $1,250 per person, covering accommodations, meals, and guided tours around the city.
A. Absolutely, Dammam offers a selection of beautiful beaches where you can enjoy the endless views of glistening waters. Popular options include Sadaf Beach, Half Moon Beach, Pearl Beach, and more.
A. In Dammam, you have a range of options, including scuba diving, shopping, watching dolphin shows, visiting amusement parks, exploring tourist attractions, and much more.