An easy escape from Dammam that doesn’t involve a long car or bus journey is Marjan Island, visible from the Corniche and a favourite with locals in the evenings and weekends. In a city that is short on public space, it’s a popular haunt for families and those looking to enjoy the great outdoors without breaking the budget.
What is Marjan Island?
Marjan Island is a man-made island that sits in the Arabian Gulf just a short distance from the shores of Dammam. It was created in the 1990s as part of a government initiative to develop more green recreational areas in a city that was primarily an industrial hub, lacking space where locals could enjoy nature and relax.
The island was constructed by dredging sand from the seabed and piling it up to form new land. It took around 18 months to complete using hundreds of thousands of tons of sand for the foundations, and rock barriers to protect it from the sea and prevent erosion. One of the interesting challenges for engineers was ensuring that the island wouldn’t change shape or sink over time. Despite concerns about the effect on wildlife, the area around Marjan Island has actually seen an increase in marine life due to calm waters created by the island’s breakwaters.
What are the best things to do on Marjan Island?
Marjan Island is not the place to come for an action-packed day out – indeed, it was designed to provide what Dammam lacked: peace, tranquility, and a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. But there are various things to do and enjoy while you’re there.
Take a stroll or enjoy a picnic
The island is home to a large park that locals use to relax or a picnic with a view. A walking path meanders across the island, with lots of good places to spread out a blanket and enjoy a picnic while listening to the waves crash on the breakwater. The island is especially popular with families on the weekends, but at other times – like weekday mornings – you may have it to yourself.
Take a ferry ride around the island
Ferries circle the island and provide scenic views from the water as well as opportunities to observe some sea life, including dolphins if you’re lucky. The ferry runs hourly from 10am to 7pm, with more frequent trips during weekends and holidays. Tickets cost around SAR 10-15 per person for a round trip.
Go boating or fishing
There are boat rentals available from various docks on the island and if you’re feeling adventurous, you can take a short cruise around Marjan or even try your hand at fishing. Locals either use rods or cast their lines by hand. Although theoretically you could snag a barracuda, it is fair to say fishing is usually just for the sport and you’re unlikely to catch a full evening meal!
Snap some photos from the viewing platform
One of the highlights of Marjan Island is its viewing platform, offering panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf and Dammam's skyline. It's a popular spot for photography, particularly at sunrise and sunset. The platform is located near the centre of the island and is accessible via the main park pathways. It is open daily from 9am to 10pm and entry is free.
Is it easy to get to Marjan Island?
Marjan Island is easy to reach, but how you get there very much depends on your comfort level, which in turn depends on the time of year.
It is connected to the mainland by a short causeway, so you could technically walk. But in the summer heat, especially around midday, is not only very uncomfortable but potentially dangerous. If you plan to walk, go early in the morning or later in the evening when it’s cooler.
The island is only a 10-minute drive from downtown Dammam, and ride-hailing services like Uber and Careem are readily available. Parking is available both on the island and on the mainland if you decide to walk across the causeway.
Can you stay on Marjan Island?
No, Marjan Island doesn’t have any hotels or accommodation – it is strictly a day-trip destination. But there are plenty of hotels within a short drive of the island, ranging from budget-friendly options to high-end, and most are only 10 to 15 minutes away.
Places to eat on Marjan Island
You won’t find a lot of fancy restaurants on Marjan Island – or, indeed, any restaurants – so the best way to enjoy a meal is to bring your own picnic. The island has several designated picnic spots, complete with benches and tables, and even at busy times space is not at a premium.
During peak times, especially weekends or holidays, you might also come across food trucks offering quick snacks, drinks, and light meals. The options can be limited and timings unpredictable, so it’s a good idea to bring your own food just in case.
There’s no shortage of dining options back in Dammam, so if you’re looking for something more substantial, it might be best to head back to the city.
Best time to visit Marjan Island
The best time to visit Marjan Island is during the cooler months, typically from November to March, when the weather in Dammam is mild, perfect for picnicking, walking, or exploring the island’s parks.
In the summer, the weather in Dammam gets very hot, making it less comfortable to be outdoors, especially in the middle of the day. If you do visit in the hotter months, it’s best to plan your trip for the early morning or late afternoon when the temperature is lower.
Does Marjan Island have a beach?
Like most reclaimed land, the water around Marjan Island is effectively open sea, so it doesn’t have a designated swimming beach. The coastline around the island is mostly rocky breakwaters, where locals fish and take in the view but are not suitable for swimming.
Opening hours, ferry timings and practical information
Marjan Island is open 24/7 and is a public space, so entry is free and there are no formal opening or closing hours for most of the island’s attractions, including the park and the viewing platform.
