Dammam

Dammam, Saudi Arabia

Though it might get overlooked in favour of larger, more glamorous cities, like Riyadh or nearby Doha, the discerning traveller will not want to pass up the opportunity to visit Dammam. As if the stunning desert scenery alone was not enough to enchant visitors, the city also offers heaps of fine dining, great shopping, and some of the most pleasant green spaces, parks and seaside walkways you are likely to find at a desert destination.

Population:

1,252,523 (2020)

Currency:

1 riyal (SAR) = 100 halalas

Emergency Numbers:

Police: 999
Fire: 998
Ambulance: 997

Opening Hours:

The working week is generally from Sun–Thu with some businesses open Sat morning. Government offices: 7:30am–2:30pm. Banks: 9:30am–4:30pm. Private businesses: 8am–12pm and 4–8pm.

Newspapers:

Saudi Gazette

The City

Though it might take the backseat to the more popular destination in the region, like Riyadh, Jeddah or the nearby Bahrain and Qatar, Dammam still has plenty to offer, not least in the stunning desert scenery that surrounds the city. The city itself also offers fantastic shopping opportunities and an increasing number of high-end international restaurants, making it a great place for business and pleasure. There is also a surprising amount of parks and green spaces where visitors and locals alike can find tranquility and enjoy the evening breeze.

The Dammam metropolitan area is actually a conglomeration of three cities: Dammam, Dhahran and Khobar, and also includes nearby areas such as Tarout Island. Tourists tend to prefer the Khobar area, as its seaside location, abundance of pedestrian walkways and amenities make it generally more pleasant than its neighbours, the Corniche being the highlight of the area. Restrictions on women (in terms of wearing a hijab) tend to be more relaxed there, as well.

Do & See

While the Dammam area offers many interesting and beautiful historical and cultural sights and museums (and be sure not to miss great monuments like the Tarout Castle), the city's wonderful outdoor life is what makes it stand out as a destination. With tons of parks and green spaces, it is a city to experience out in the open, when the sometimes stifling weather permits. Walk along the Corniche and breathe in the fresh sea air to understand what the city is all about.

Dining

There are plenty of places in Dammam where you can enjoy some of the typical foods of the country and region, such as shawarmas and falafel. But the city also offers an impressive selection of fine-dining options and international restaurants, and you are sure to find whatever kind of food tickles your fancy.

Cafes

Though traditionally preferring tea, Saudis have increasingly been embracing coffee and the coffee culture. Dammam is now home to many Western-style cafes and coffee houses, and visitors will not lack inviting places to relax, kick back, escape from the oppressive heat, and enjoy a delicious cup of fine roast coffee.