Situated on the Persian Gulf in eastern Saudi Arabia, and founded by the Al Dawasir tribe that migrated from Bahrain in 1923, Dammam is an important city of the Kingdom. It was a modest fishing village that later transformed into an important commercial port on the Arabian Gulf. Dammam Metropolitan is present at the crossroads that connect the Arabian Gulf states of Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Oman with Saudi Arabia. It is the capital of the Eastern Province and is also gaining a reputation as a hotspot for art, sports, and entertainment. Dammam has several lesser-known natural and historical places. From gorgeous islands to the unique Dolphin Village, Dammam has something for everyone.
The Best Things To Do In Dammam, Saudi Arabia
Dammam offers a wonderful culmination of history and large-scale modern development, allowing visitors to indulge in the best of both worlds. Check out the rundown of fun things to do in Dammam:
1. Visit Marjan Island
Marjan Island is an artificial archipelago made from four coral-shaped islands with hotels, resorts, and beaches. Marjan Island is a charming site for a picnic or family getaway, and thus attracts worldwide visitors. When visiting this island, tourists can go fishing, sunbathing, boating, or play on the pristine beaches. Indulging in a bonfire & barbecue night with family is also a great way to spend time on Marjan Island.
2. Buy souvenirs from Share Al-Hob Souk
Filled with the hustle and bustle, Share Al-Hob Souk, also known as “Love Market”, is the heart of Dammam. Its outer streets are dotted with jewelry stores where you can barter for gold. Most of the souk’s activity takes place down a central street. The market is flooded with heady scents of spices, perfumes, and kiosks selling everything from carpets and furniture to ceramics, incense, and fabrics. Share Al-Hob Souk’s streets come alive after dusk with street performers, live-sketch artists, and musicians, creating an infectious ambiance.
3. Explore Heritage Village Museum
Tourists can get a glimpse of the rich history and culture of Saudi Arabia at the Heritage Village. Exploring this place is one of the popular outdoor activities in Dammam. The 5 stories fortress-like structure offers travelers a sneak-peek into the past and present of the Saudi Arabian civilization. It houses some fascinating antiques of the past, including ancient weapons, jewelry, old photos, manuscripts, and numerous other priceless items. Heritage Village also has a restaurant that serves traditional Saudi food along with other cuisines.
4. Unwind at the King Fahd Park
King Fahd Park spans in 100 hectares offering everything from wide natural spaces to thrilling rides. Over 25 rides are available at the amusement park, including the most popular attraction – Cobra Ride. With three islands covered with palm trees and spaces to sit, Swan Lake can be found on the park’s eastern side. A plant nursery comprising shaded bushes and nurseries for plant growth is located in the park’s northeastern section. The park has various artificial lagoons, pools, artificial lakes, waterfalls and fountains. It is also home to over a hundred different tree, shrub, and plant species.
5. Watch the Dolphin Show at Dolphin Village
The sea lion and the dolphin at the dolphin show are trained to execute amazing tricks making it a terrific attraction for both the young and elderly. Spectators can take photographs with the dolphin after the show. The Dolphin Village also includes several sophisticated electric entertainment and water activities. A unique horror cave and an informative wildlife and aquarium museum are also part of the Dolphin Village.
6. Take a tour of the Dammam Regional Museum
Located on the SeaFront, Dammam Regional Museum takes visitors on a journey through the rich archaeological history of the Dammam region. It has remnants from prehistoric times. One can find archaeology professionals all over the museum explaining and guiding through the exhibits.
7. Relax at the Half Moon Beach
Half Moon Beach is a long, gorgeous crescent-shaped beach popular among the locals and international travelers. One can relax on the immaculate white sand, swim in the gulf, sunbathe on the vast beachfront, or ride a beach buggy across the dunes. Plus, there are lounging places and showers in the style of a cabana. The water at Half Moon Beach is clean, shallow, and tranquil throughout the area. The beach experiences low-lying waves, which are perfectly suitable for swimming and other water-related activities.
8. Spend an evening at the Dammam Corniche
With its stunning promenade and a lovely park, relaxing at Dammam Corniche is unquestionably one of the ideal outdoor activities in Dammam. It is heavenly to feel the cold sea wind brushing against the face while standing on the Corniche promenade. Tourists can also enjoy an evening stroll or watch the seagulls dive into the Persian Gulf’s azure seas. The Corniche is ideal for spending quality time in Dammam, with bustling cafes, carnival rides, and a relaxed environment.
Whether you’re traveling to this Saudi Arabian city for business or leisure, Dammam offers an ideal combination of adrenaline-pumping sports, long days at the beach, great cuisine, and bustling souks.
Things To Do In Dammam FAQs
Is there an airport in Dammam?
Yes, Dammam has an airport known as King Fahd International Airport.
Which is the best time to visit Dammam?
The best time to visit Dammam is between October and March, with the average temperature hovering between 17°C-37°C. During this time, the climate remains salubrious, providing an opportunity to explore Dammam conveniently.
Can I avail public transport service in Dammam?
Because Dammam lacks an intra-city public transportation system, private cars or cabs are preferred for sightseeing.
What is the approximate cost of traveling to Dammam?
A single traveler may expect to pay 2000 SAR for a 2 night, 3 day trip to Dammam, 3300 SAR for a couple, and 4300 SAR for a family of four.
Which are the top hotels in Dammam?
Top hotels in Dammam are Tripper Inn, Braira Dammam Hotel, Sheraton Dammam Hotel &, Convention Centre, Novotel Dammam Business Park, Naviti By Warwick Dammam, Golden, Tulip Dammam Corniche Hotel, Park Inn by Radisson Hotel & Apartments, Wyndham, Garden Dammam, Swiss International Al Hamra Hotel, Ramada by Wyndham Dammam Khaleej Road
What to do in Dammam as a tourist?
Tourists can organize picnic, indulge in water sports, and visit numerous tourist destinations in Dammam.
What is special about Dammam city of Saudi Arabia?
Dammam is known for some of the best beaches in Saudi Arabia.
What is the distance of Dammam from Riyadh?
Dammam is 409 km from Riyadh.
Where to go in Dammam as a tourist?
Tourists can visit Marjan Island, Heritage Village Museum, Dolphin Village, King Fahad Park, and Half Moon Beach in Dammam.
