Dammam Saudi Arabia

Welcome to Dammam, Saudi Arabia: A Travel Guide

Dammam is a coastal city located in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. It’s a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and vibrant culture. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you plan your trip to Dammam:

Places to Visit

  1. Dammam Corniche: A 12-kilometer-long waterfront promenade that offers stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. Take a leisurely walk or cycle along the corniche and enjoy the sunset.
  2. King Fahd Park: A large public park that features a beautiful lake, walking trails, and plenty of green spaces. It’s a great place to relax and unwind.
  3. Dammam Museum: A museum that showcases the city’s history and culture. Exhibits include artifacts from ancient civilizations, traditional Saudi architecture, and modern art.
  4. Al-Ahsa Water Springs: A natural spring located about 30 kilometers from Dammam. The water is said to have healing properties and is a popular destination for tourists.
  5. Dammam Beach: A beautiful beach that offers a range of activities including swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Activities

  1. Snorkeling or Scuba Diving: Explore the underwater world of the Arabian Gulf and spot marine life such as dolphins and sea turtles.
  2. Cycling: Rent a bike and cycle along the corniche or through one of the city’s many parks.
  3. Shopping: Visit the city’s many shopping centers, including the Dammam Mall and the Al-Ahsa Mall.
  4. Food Tours: Take a guided tour to sample the city’s delicious cuisine, which includes traditional Saudi dishes such as kebabs and shawarma.
  5. Fishing: Try your hand at deep-sea fishing or take a leisurely boat trip along the coast.

Where to Eat

  1. Al-Mahma: A popular restaurant that serves traditional Saudi cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
  2. Kababji: A chain of restaurants that specializes in Middle Eastern cuisine, including kebabs and shawarma.
  3. Dammam Cafe: A casual cafe that serves a range of international dishes, including breakfast options and sandwiches.
  4. Fish Market Restaurant: A seafood restaurant that offers a wide range of fresh fish and seafood dishes.
  5. KFC: A popular fast-food chain that serves fried chicken and other American-style cuisine.

Where to Stay

  1. Dammam Hotel: A 5-star hotel located in the heart of the city, with comfortable rooms and excellent service.
  2. Corniche Hotel: A 4-star hotel located on the corniche, with stunning views of the Arabian Gulf.
  3. Al-Ahsa Hotel: A 3-star hotel located near the Al-Ahsa Water Springs, with comfortable rooms and a relaxing atmosphere.
  4. Dammam Inn: A budget-friendly option that offers simple but clean and comfortable rooms.
  5. Airbnb: Consider renting an apartment or house through Airbnb for a more local experience.

Things to Know

  1. Respect Local Culture: Dammam is a conservative city, so be sure to dress modestly and respect local customs.
  2. Language: Arabic is the official language, but many locals speak English, especially in tourist areas.
  3. Currency: The Saudi Riyal (SAR) is the local currency, but US dollars are widely accepted.
  4. Weather: Dammam has a hot desert climate, with very little rainfall throughout the year.
  5. Safety: Dammam is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Transportation

  1. Taxi: Taxis are widely available and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance through a taxi app.
  2. Uber: Uber operates in Dammam and is a convenient way to get around the city.
  3. Public Transportation: The city has a public transportation system that includes buses and a metro line, but it’s not as comprehensive as in larger cities like Riyadh.
  4. Rental Car: Consider renting a car for greater flexibility and freedom to explore the surrounding area.

Tips

  1. Haggling is expected: When shopping at markets or from vendors, be prepared to haggle over prices.
  2. Don’t drink tap water: Stick to bottled or filtered water to avoid any health issues.
  3. Be respectful of local customs: Dress modestly and respect local traditions, especially when visiting mosques or other cultural sites.
  4. Try local cuisine: Dammam has a delicious and unique cuisine that’s worth trying, so be adventurous and sample some local dishes.
  5. Stay hydrated: The desert climate can be intense, so make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day.

Other Tips

  1. Learn some Arabic phrases: While many locals speak English, learning a few basic Arabic phrases like “as-salamu alaykum” (hello) and “shukran” (thank you) can go a long way in showing respect for the local culture.
  2. Bring sunscreen: The sun’s rays can be intense, so don’t forget to pack sunscreen or other protective gear.
  3. Respect local dress codes: While Dammam is a relatively liberal city, it’s still important to dress modestly and respect local customs, especially when visiting mosques or other cultural sites.

We hope this guide has been helpful in planning your trip to Dammam, Saudi Arabia! With its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and vibrant culture, there’s something for everyone in this amazing city. Enjoy your stay!