Dammam Saudi Arabia 5 Day Itinerary

Dammam, Saudi Arabia 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and City Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at King Fahd International Airport (DMM) and take a taxi or Uber to your hotel.
  • Hotel: Stay at the luxurious Radisson Blu Hotel, Dammam or the budget-friendly Ibis Dammam.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Dammam Museum (Saturday to Thursday, 8 am - 2 pm) to learn about the region’s history and culture.
  • Evening: Explore the Al Shati District, a vibrant area with shops, restaurants, and cafes. Try some local street food at Shawarma Corner or enjoy a meal at Assaraya Turkish Restaurant.

Day 2: Beaches and Water Activities

  • Morning: Head to Half Moon Bay (open 24/7), a scenic beach with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Dammam Marina, where you can take a boat tour or rent a yacht for a few hours. Don’t miss the stunning views of the city skyline!
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at The Fish Market Restaurant, serving fresh seafood dishes.

Day 3: Historical Landmarks

  • Morning: Visit the Al Moraiya Castle (Saturday to Thursday, 8 am - 2 pm), a historic fort that dates back to the 18th century.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Tarout Island, a small island with archaeological sites and scenic views. Take a ferry from the Dammam Marina to reach the island.
  • Evening: Try some traditional Saudi cuisine at Najd Village Restaurant.

Day 4: Shopping and Entertainment

  • Morning: Visit the Dammam Mall (Saturday to Thursday, 9 am - 12 pm), one of the largest shopping centers in the city. Find international brands, restaurants, and entertainment options.
  • Afternoon: Head to the King Fahd Park (open 24/7), a large public park with walking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds for kids.
  • Evening: Catch a movie at VOX Cinemas Dammam Mall or enjoy some coffee and shisha at Café Arabica.

Day 5: Departure

  • Morning: Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or exploring any last-minute attractions.
  • Afternoon: Head back to King Fahd International Airport (DMM) for your departure flight.

Things to Know

  • Visa requirements: Check the Saudi Arabian government’s visa policy for tourists.
  • Dress code: Respect local customs and dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees.
  • Language: Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken.
  • Currency: Saudi Riyal (SAR) is the local currency.

Transportation

  • Taxis: Available at the airport and around the city.
  • Uber: Operates in Dammam.
  • Car rental: Companies like Sixt, Europcar, and Hertz have offices at the airport.

Tips

  • Respect local culture: Avoid public displays of affection, and respect prayer times.
  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially during outdoor activities.
  • Bargain: When shopping at traditional markets, be prepared to negotiate prices.
  • Learn some Arabic phrases: Show respect for the local culture by learning basic phrases like “hello” (مرحبا - Marhaba), “thank you” (شكرا - Shukraan), and “goodbye” (مع السلامة - Ma’a al-salaama).

Other Things of Interest

  • Desert safari: Book a guided tour to explore the surrounding desert landscape.
  • Scuba diving: Discover the Red Sea’s marine life with a certified dive operator.
  • Festivals and events: Check the local calendar for festivals like the Dammam Festival or the Saudi International Motor Show.

Enjoy your trip to Dammam, Saudi Arabia!