Between the Corniche, the parks, Ithra and wandering the souqs and malls, visitors will have no problem keeping busy on a trip to Dammam. But the city is also a gateway to a region rich in history, natural beauty and adventure, and visitors with the time should try to see as much of it as they can.
Born out of the region’s oil boom in the 20th century, Dammam, Al Khobar, and Dhahran are relatively modern cities, but the surrounding Eastern Province is home to some of Saudi Arabia’s oldest and most significant historical and cultural sites.
Whether you’re looking to explore ancient ruins, wander through palm-dotted oases or relax on remote beaches, the following day trips offer a welcome break from the bustling city.
1. Uncover ancient history at Qatif
One of the oldest continuously inhabited areas in Saudi Arabia, Qatif has a history that dates back to the Bronze Age. Despite the rapid modernisation of the Eastern Province, Qatif has retained much of its historical charm, even as some of its most iconic landmarks, like Qatif Castle, have been lost to time.
Visitors can explore the town’s old souq, which is both an authentic shopping experience and a window into traditional Arabian life. Tarout Castle, situated on Tarout Island, is inaccessible to the public but its two remaining towers, believed to have been built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, are visible and serve as a reminder of the island’s long history. The island itself has archaeological evidence dating back to 4,300BCE.
Qatif is located about 30 kilometres from Dammam, making it an easy 30-minute drive. It’s best to drive or hire a taxi as public transport options are limited. If you plan on staying over, Dana Bay Resort is located just a short drive from Qatif and offers beachfront villas and amenities for families or couples looking to unwind after a day of exploring.
2. Explore the oasis of Al-Ahsa
For a day trip that combines natural beauty and historical significance, Al-Ahsa Oasis will fit the bill. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Al-Ahsa is home to over 2.5 million palm trees, sustained by an ancient irrigation system that has fed the area for millennia. The oasis includes the cities of Hofuf and Al Mubarraz, along with several smaller villages.
Qasr Ibrahim, a fortress that dates back to the Ottoman period and features a mosque from the 1500s, has been recently restored and is worth a visit. Visitors can also explore the surrounding date farms and learn about the cultivation of one of Saudi Arabia’s most prized exports.
Al-Ahsa is located around 150 kilometres southwest of Dammam, and the drive takes about 90 minutes. Alternatively, there are regular train services from Dammam to Hofuf, taking about an hour and a half. If you want to stick around, the Al-Ahsa Intercontinental Hotel, in Hofuf, offers comfortable rooms within reach of Qasr Ibrahim and other historic sites.
3. Step back in time at Uqair
A short drive from Dammam will take you to the coastal town of Uqair, home to a Roman theatre built in the 2nd century CE (although sadly neglected and in some state of disrepair), and a mudbrick fort. Uqair itself was once believed to be the location of the ancient city of Gerrha, a powerful trading hub that dominated the region in pre-Islamic times. The town also played a significant role in Saudi Arabia’s modern history, serving as the venue for important discussions between the nation’s founder, Abdulaziz bin Abdul Rahman, and foreign diplomats in the early 20th century.
Uqair is located around 85 kilometres from Dammam, and the drive takes approximately one hour. Due to the lack of public transport options, driving is the most practical way to visit. If you want to stay the night, the Radisson Blu Resort, at Al Khobar Half Moon Bay is a relatively easy hop by car to Uqair.
4. Discover Jubail’s natural beauty and beaches
Jubail, known primarily as an industrial hub, also boasts some of the best beaches along the Saudi Arabian coast. Al Nakheel Beach and Fanateer Beach are popular destinations, offering pristine shorelines and recreational areas perfect for swimming, picnicking, and water sports. Jubail’s Corniche is well-maintained and provides scenic walks by the sea. Jubail is also home to the Jubail Mangrove Forest, a haven for birdwatching and walking.
Jubail is located about 100 kilometres north of Dammam, and the drive takes approximately one hour. There are also bus services between Dammam and Jubail, making it accessible for those without a car. If you want to stay over, the Crown Tower Hotel Jubail is close to the city’s main beaches.
5. Admire the Saudi Arabia’s second-oldest mosque
Jawatha Mosque in Hofuf is believed to be the second oldest in the world after the Prophet’s mosque in Medina, dating back to the 7th century CE. Still in use today, Jawatha Mosque has been carefully restored, and the surrounding area – dotted with palm groves and traditional villages – makes for an interesting day out away from the city.
Jawatha Mosque is located around 150 kilometres from Dammam, and the drive takes about 90 minutes. Public transport options are limited. Somewhere Hotel Al Ahsa, in Hofuf, is a great option if you fancy extending your stay overnight.
6. Discover Manama, Bahrain
A short drive across the King Fahd Causeway will take you to Bahrain's capital, Manama, a bustling city that blends modernity with rich history. As well as shopping and historical sites such as the Bahrain National Museum and the ancient Bahrain Fort, Bahrain is an interesting spot for fans of motorsports. Visitors can take a trip to the Bahrain International Circuit, home to the Bahrain Grand Prix.
The nation is linked to Saudi Arabia by a land bridge that is almost worth the visit in itself. It costs SAR20 to cross the King Fahd Causeway by car, and while the causeway is open 24 hours, bear in mind that traffic can be heavy during holidays. If you are a GCC resident, you won’t need a visa. However, visitors from outside the GCC may need a visa, which can often be obtained online or upon arrival at the causeway. The Bahrain eVisa costs around 5 BHD.
If you don’t have a car you can take the bus, with services provided by SAPTCO taking about three hours including border checks. Driving yourself or taking a taxi will take just over an hour.
