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Dammam

Saudi Arabia · Coast · SAR · 26.392700, 49.977700
Family friendly 7.8/10 · Rank 181 of 2 709
Best season: November-March

Best for

Suitable for families, couples, beach holidaymakers and water sports lovers

Best season

November-March

Daily budget
$105.00 (≈ 8 812 ₽ · ≈ 394 SAR)
For 7 days
$735.00 (≈ 61 681 ₽ · ≈ 2 756 SAR)
Dammam is the capital of the Eastern Province and a major port city on the coast of the Persian Gulf. It is an important business centre with a modern corniche, museums, and cultural centres, including the world-class Ithra centre. This small resort town on the Gulf coast offers excellent opportunities for waterfront relaxation and discovering Eastern culture.
Summer
44.0°C
Winter
11.0°C
Sea
34.0°C
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Description and atmosphere

Energy

moderate

Pace of life

moderate

Local character

Dammam residents are friendly, hospitable and traditional people proud of their city and its maritime traditions

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Beautiful beaches
  • Crystal clear water
  • Developed infrastructure
  • Excellent restaurants
  • Close to Bahrain

Cons

  • Very hot summer
  • Dry law
  • Limited nightlife
  • High prices
Climate
Summer Temperature
Average air temperature in June–August
36.0°C
Summer Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in June-August
42.0°C
Summer Max Temp
Maximum daytime temperature in summer months
44.0°C
Winter Temperature
Average air temperature in December–February
17.0°C
Winter Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in December-February
21.0°C
Winter Min Temp
Minimum temperature in winter months
11.0°C
Summer Water Temperature
Average sea temperature in the warm season
32.0°C
Water Max Temp
Maximum water temperature in warm season
34.0°C
Rainy Season
Months with the heaviest rainfall
November-April
Sea and beach
Sand Type
Type of beach surface
sand
Sand Color
Colour of the beach sand
white
Water Entry
Type of water entry
gradual
Waves
Level of waves
weak
Water Clarity
Clarity of the water
crystal
Best Beach
Name of the most popular beach
Half Moon Beach
Beach
Availability of a beach
Yes
Tides
Whether tides are noticeable
Yes
Rip Currents
Presence of dangerous rip currents
No
Sunbeds
Availability of sunbeds
Yes
Beach Cafe
Availability of a cafe or bar
Yes
Toilet / Shower
Availability of toilets and showers
Yes
Lifeguards
Presence of lifeguards
Yes
Safe for Swimming
Whether swimming is safe
Yes
Sea hazards
Sea Urchins
Presence of sea urchins
None
Corals / Reefs
Presence of corals or reefs
None
Jellyfish
Presence of jellyfish
Present
Sharks
Presence of sharks
None
Overall Danger
Overall danger rating
low
Note

Beaches are generally safe, jellyfish possible in the warm season

Sea urchins — details

  • Sea urchins in Dammam waters are represented by common Indo-Pacific species inhabiting coral reefs and seagrass beds. They do not pose a serious danger, but special swimming shoes are recommended
  • Fossil sea urchins have been discovered in the Dammam Formation, indicating their ancient presence in the region

Corals and reefs — details

  • Extensive and healthy coral reefs inhabit the waters off Dammam in the Persian Gulf, home to a wide variety of marine species, from angelfish and parrotfish to small sharks
  • Coral reefs are mostly concentrated around Half Moon Bay and the islands, where both hard and soft corals are found

Jellyfish — details

  • Jellyfish may appear in the warm season, especially in July-August
  • Moon jellyfish (Aurelia aurita) — most common species, stings are mild but unpleasant

Sharks — details

  • Various shark species inhabit the waters off Dammam, including the tiger shark (Galeocerdo cuvier), grey reef sharks and small reef sharks found on coral reefs
  • Sharks pose a potential danger, caution is recommended and follow local authorities' instructions
Attractions

Half Moon Beach

Scenic beach with white sand and crystal clear water, ideal for swimming and snorkelling

Dammam Corniche

Scenic waterfront along the Persian Gulf with parks, cafes and sculptures

Dammam Royal Centre

Modern shopping and entertainment complex with shops, restaurants and a cinema

Dammam National Museum

Museum with collections on the history and culture of the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia

Tarut Island

Scenic island with beaches and water sports opportunities

Best areas

Corniche

Coastal area with parks, restaurants and waterfront

City Centre

Business district with hotels, shops and restaurants

Half Moon

Area around the beach with hotels and villas

Must-try food

Kabsa

National dish of Saudi Arabia — rice with chicken or lamb and spices

Mandi

Traditional dish of rice and meat baked in an earth oven

Hummus

Chickpea paste with tahini, a popular appetiser

Shawarma

Traditional Arab shawarma with meat and vegetables

Where to go next

Hofuf

City with Al-Ahsa Oasis and historical attractions 1.5 hours away

Jubail

Industrial city with beaches and parks 1 hour away

Bahrain

Island nation with rich culture and nightlife, accessible by car

Family Friendly
Suitable for families with children
Yes
Nightlife
Level of nightlife
low
Getting there
Nearest airports
Международный аэропорт имени Короля Фахда (DMM).
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Visa
Visa requirements
e-visa
Best Season
Months with the most comfortable weather
November-March
Accommodation
Hostel (Dorm Bed)
Average price for a hostel dorm bed
$20.00
≈ 1 678 ₽ · ≈ 75 SAR
3-Star Hotel
Average price for a 3-star hotel room
$73.00
≈ 6 126 ₽ · ≈ 274 SAR
4-Star Hotel
Average price for a 4-star hotel room
$80.00
≈ 6 714 ₽ · ≈ 300 SAR
5-Star Hotel
Average price for a 5-star hotel room
$79.00
≈ 6 630 ₽ · ≈ 296 SAR
Villa / House
Average nightly rate for a villa or house
$150.00
≈ 12 588 ₽ · ≈ 563 SAR
Apartment
Average nightly rate for an apartment
$60.00
≈ 5 035 ₽ · ≈ 225 SAR
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Food and drinks
Lunch at a Cafe
Average price for lunch at a casual cafe
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 30 SAR
Dinner at a Restaurant
Average check for dinner at a nice restaurant
$20.00
≈ 1 678 ₽ · ≈ 75 SAR
Coffee (Cappuccino)
Average price for a cappuccino
$3.00
≈ 252 ₽ · ≈ 11 SAR
Beer (0.5L)
Average price for a 0.5L beer
$2.50
≈ 210 ₽ · ≈ 9 SAR
Water (1.5L)
Average price for a 1.5L bottle of water
$1.00
≈ 84 ₽ · ≈ 4 SAR
Pizza
Average price for a pizza
$9.00
≈ 755 ₽ · ≈ 34 SAR
Burger
Average price for a burger
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 30 SAR
Dessert
Average price for a dessert
$4.00
≈ 336 ₽ · ≈ 15 SAR
Fast Food Combo
Average price for a fast food combo
$7.00
≈ 587 ₽ · ≈ 26 SAR
Transport
Airport Taxi
Average taxi fare from the airport to the city centre
$25.00
≈ 2 098 ₽ · ≈ 94 SAR
Public Transport
Average price for a single public transport ticket
$1.50
≈ 126 ₽ · ≈ 6 SAR
Short Taxi Ride
Average fare for a short taxi ride
$5.00
≈ 420 ₽ · ≈ 19 SAR
Car Rental (per day)
Average daily rate for an economy car rental
$45.00
≈ 3 776 ₽ · ≈ 169 SAR
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Activities and rentals
Bike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a bike or scooter
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 38 SAR
Motorbike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a motorbike or scooter
$20.00
≈ 1 678 ₽ · ≈ 75 SAR
Excursion
Average price for an organised excursion
$40.00
≈ 3 357 ₽ · ≈ 150 SAR
Yacht / Boat Cruise
Average price for a boat cruise
$80.00
≈ 6 714 ₽ · ≈ 300 SAR
Tiqets — museums & landmarks Dammam Partner
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Shopping
Shopping
Average amount spent on shopping
$60.00
≈ 5 035 ₽ · ≈ 225 SAR
Souvenirs
Average amount spent on souvenirs
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽ · ≈ 56 SAR
Tourist SIM / Internet
Average price for a tourist SIM card
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 38 SAR
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Frequently asked questions
Dammam: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is November-March. At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Dammam: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +44.0°C, during the day — up to +42.0°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Dammam: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +11.0°C, during the day — up to +21.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Dammam: what is the sea temperature?
The sea near the resort warms up to an average of +34.0°C in the warm season. This water temperature is considered ideal for long swims — you can stay in the sea for hours without discomfort. The water is comfortable for both adults and children. If you want to know the exact temperature by month, use the match-by-month tool.
Dammam: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on November-April. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Dammam: what are the beaches like?
The beaches here are with a "sand" surface, white sand, crystal water. The most popular beaches: Half Moon Beach. The beaches have sunbeds and cafes and bars.
Dammam: is it safe to swim in the sea?
Swimming is allowed here, but standard precautions should be taken. The overall danger level in the sea is rated as low — you can swim and enjoy water sports without worry. Lifeguards are on duty on the beaches.
Dammam: what are the sea hazards?
The sea contains: jellyfish. Beaches are generally safe, jellyfish possible in the warm season. It is recommended to swim in special shoes and avoid contact with marine life.
Dammam: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $105.00 (≈ 8 812 ₽ · ≈ 394 SAR) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Dammam: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $20.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $73.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $80.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $79.00 per night, an apartment — $60.00 per night, a villa — $150.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Dammam: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $8.00, dinner at a restaurant — $20.00, a cup of cappuccino — $3.00, a 0.5L beer — $2.50, a 1.5L bottle of water — $1.00. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Dammam: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $25.00, a single public transport ticket — $1.50, a short taxi ride — $5.00, car rental — $45.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Dammam: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Half Moon Beach — Scenic beach with white sand and crystal clear water, ideal for swimming and snorkelling; Dammam Corniche — Scenic waterfront along the Persian Gulf with parks, cafes and sculptures; Dammam Royal Centre — Modern shopping and entertainment complex with shops, restaurants and a cinema; Dammam National Museum — Museum with collections on the history and culture of the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia; Tarut Island — Scenic island with beaches and water sports opportunities. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Dammam: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Kabsa — National dish of Saudi Arabia — rice with chicken or lamb and spices; Mandi — Traditional dish of rice and meat baked in an earth oven; Hummus — Chickpea paste with tahini, a popular appetiser; Shawarma — Traditional Arab shawarma with meat and vegetables. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Dammam: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: Corniche — Coastal area with parks, restaurants and waterfront; City Centre — Business district with hotels, shops and restaurants; Half Moon — Area around the beach with hotels and villas. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Dammam: is a visa required?
Visa: e-visa. Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Dammam: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Международный аэропорт имени Короля Фахда (code DMM). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $25.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Dammam: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — SAR. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $105.00 (≈ 8 812 ₽ · ≈ 394 SAR). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Dammam: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Dammam: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as low. There is not much nightlife, but the basics are available.
Dammam: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Hofuf — City with Al-Ahsa Oasis and historical attractions 1.5 hours away; Jubail — Industrial city with beaches and parks 1 hour away; Bahrain — Island nation with rich culture and nightlife, accessible by car. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.

Putivator rating

7.8/10
Overall rank: 181 of 2 709
Rank among coastal: 111

Best season

November-March

Useful information

Currency: SAR
Coordinates: 26.392700, 49.977700