From exhilarating rides at the Loopagoon Water Park to learning about oil drilling processes at the Energy Exhibit, there are many things to do in Dhahran. King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture created by Saudi Aramco is a beacon of the city’s transformation and a portal to Dhahran tourism.
Dhahran Tourism
Dhahran, along with the surrounding towns of Dammam and Khobar, is part of the Dammam Metropolitan Area located in the Emirate of the Eastern Province in Saudi Arabia. It has been the headquarters of Saudi Aramco, the world’s largest oil firm with the highest number of oil reserves in the world, for the past 80 years. Dhahran may not be as well-known as other Saudi Arabian towns, but it is a charming tourist destination. It has a variety of sites that help boost tourism in Saudi Arabia and draw visitors from both inside and outside the country.
Dhahran Weather
The best time of the year is in the winter months. Generally, summers in Dhahran are lengthy, hot, humid, and desert; winters are cool, dry, and windy; and the weather is typically clear all year. Mid-October to mid-February are the ideal months to visit Dhahran. The temperature in Dhahran ranges from 17°C to 28°C during this time.
Where is Dhahran located
Dhahran is a key city in the Eastern province of Saudi Arabia. Along with Khobar and Dammam, it makes up the Dammam Metropolitan Area. On the east, Dhahran is surrounded by Persian Gulf and is only 34 km from Dammam city center. Most tourist places are easily accessible by cabs. Taxis are also preferred for intercity travel. King Fahd International Airport is the nearest airport for those coming in from far/another country. Stay options are plenty and diverse. From budget stays to sprawling resorts, there is enough choice for all pockets.
Fun Things to do in Dhahran
1. Visit King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture
The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture is a symbol of change and a doorway to Dhahran tourism. Saudi Aramco Oil Company built the center to foster cultural growth within Saudi Arabia. Idea Lab, Library, Ithra Theater, Cinema, Ithra Museum, Children’s Museum, Energy Exhibit, Archives, The Great Hall, and the Knowledge Tower are some of the facilities at this site to offer entertaining and groundbreaking experiences. The library, in particular, is a massive learning center with over 2,00,000 books. The museum and archival facilities, on the other hand, connect the center’s lively cultural activity to the past and to the fundamental roots of the society from which it arose. The center was named as one of Time magazine’s top 100 places to visit globally. Consequently, it welcomed one million visitors in 2019.
2. Enjoy at Loopagoon Water Park
Located on the lovely Dana Bay, Loopagoon Water Park is the world’s first women’s water park. It features 11 unique state-of-the-art rides, slides, and attractions, as well as a variety of shopping and food options. The 14-meter-wide Tornado offers riders a zero-gravity experience as they nearly free fall. The ride is excellent for people who appreciate speed. Loopagoon Water Park has FlowRider, a 10-meter-wide continuously flowing sheet of water that offers bodyboarding options. The space is surrounded by tall, attractive walls ensuring that female guests have complete privacy. In addition, Loopagoon Water Park has lovely Mediterranean themes, landscape, and architecture, all of which contribute to a very immersive experience for visitors.
Ticket price for Loopagoon Water Park
Children 0-3: Free, Age 4-12: SAR 125 ($33.32), Age 13+: SAR 230 ($61.31)
3. Shop at the Mall of Dhahran
Mall of Dhahran is a one-story shopping center. Dhahran Mall shops include more than 400 retail stores with international brands and home-grown labels. People can eat at over 60+ restaurants and cafés ready to provide everything from pizza, burgers, and soda to coffee, cakes, and cold beverages. Besides, the mall also has a variety of entertainment alternatives, such as Billy Beez and Sparky’s. Billy Beez is one of Saudi Arabia’s largest indoor playgrounds and a must-visit spot for children. Whereas, Sparky’s is the perfect recreational center for the entire family. Visitors may enjoy thrilling rides, arcade games, an indoor ice rink, a large soft play area, and much more at Sparky’s. Overall, Mall of Dhahran is a lovely spot to enjoy luxury shopping, delicious cuisine, and fantastic entertainment with family and friends.
Dhahran mall opening hours: Saturday to Thursday: 9:30 am – 11 pm; on Friday 2 pm – 11 pm
4. Watch a movie at Dhahran Mall
The Mall of Dhahran is not just famous for the lavish international stores and activity centers. Dhahran Mall cinema has the franchise of Muvi Cinema boasting 13 cinema halls that show movies from different parts of the world. The halls combined can accommodate around 2,300 individuals. Spectators can choose from Dolby Cinemas, Samsung Onyx, Screen X, and Muvi Suites, each providing unique experiences while watching movies at Dhahran Mall. To enhance the experience to next levels these halls are equipped with advanced technology and sound system. Further, visitors can buy snacks during intervals of the movies at the concession center near the halls.
5. Explore the Energy Exhibit
The Energy Exhibit is a part of the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture complex. It offers a hands-on, immersive experience that uses multimedia to explore the world of petroleum, its sciences, energy, and technology. From exploration, drilling, and production through refining and transportation, the 25,000 square-foot exhibit brings Saudi Aramco’s efforts to life. The exhibit takes visitors on an entertaining and instructive journey. They learn the harvesting of natural resources and alternative types of energy. Interactive exhibits, workshops, and a 3D theatre are among the three main attractions of the exhibit. The exhibit’s purpose is to pique youth’s interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
6. Dine at ChillinG Moment
ChillinG Moment is a fantastic fine-dining restaurant with unrivaled ambiance and soothing background music. It is a small hidden gem and the town’s most unique eatery. Balsamic Quinoa Salad, Tarragon Chicken, Pepper Chicken, Mozzarella Sticks, Cheesy Mushroom, Chilling Steak, Chilling Pasta, and Tiramisu are some of the most popular dishes at the restaurant.
Dhahran is a great place to visit for a weekend getaway. It provides the right combination of entertainment, cuisine, science exhibits, and cultural displays. Take a cue from the list and plan a visit to Dhahran to make it a trip to remember.
Suggested Read: 6 Exciting Places To Visit In Dhahran For Tourists And Locals
Things to do in Dhahran FAQs
Does Dhahran have an airport?
Yes, Dhahran has an airport, namely King Fahd International Airport. It has two runways, 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) long, and consists of 3 terminals. Famous airlines like Emirates, Etihad Airways, Lufthansa, and Qatar Airways mainly cater to King Fahd International Airport.
How to dress in Dhahran?
Both men and women have to adhere to particular dress regulations in public areas. Shorts and sleeveless clothing are prohibited for men, while abayas and headscarves are required.
Which are the top 10 restaurants in Dhahran?
Top restaurants are Steak House, Brasa, Applebee Dhahran, Al-Sanbok Seafood Restaurant, Outback Steakhouse, Madeleine French Bakery & Brasserie, and Marrakesh Restaurant.
Can I avail myself of public transport service in Dhahran?
While public transportation is only available in a limited capacity, taxi services are becoming increasingly popular, both affordable and extensively available.
Is Dhahran a part of Dammam Metropolitan Area?
Yes, Dhahran is a part of the Dammam Metropolitan Area, which comprises the triplet cities of Dammam, Khobar, and Dhahran.
