As the centre of the oil industry in the Kingdom – and where billions of dollars worth of black gold sits beneath its very streets – Dammam may not be the first destination that springs to mind for travellers on a budget.
As with many cities in Saudi Arabia, hotels tend to be clustered around the very high-end – and very expensive – and the budget sector, which are more affordable but neither well located nor suitable for many travellers, particularly solo women and families.
If you are going to splurge on anything, make it your hotel, particularly in the summer months when you absolutely need rock solid air conditioning to survive the heat.
But when it comes to everything else, it is possible to visit Dammam without going bust. Strolling the Corniche on a cool evening is free, as is drinking in the beautiful views of the Arabian Gulf, and – like Jeddah and Riyadh – there are also myriad food options for those on a budget.
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1. Opt for budget carriers to find the cheapest flights
If you’re travelling to Dammam from elsewhere in the Gulf, consider the many budget airlines that now operate in the region. Dammam, Al Khobar and Dhahran are all business hubs and not everyone in the oil industry is a billionaire – it isn’t a case of business class or bust. If you are able to travel on weekends, during summer or just after Ramadan, you’ll also save a packet.
Airline enthusiasts may be interested to know that Dammam’s airport, King Fahd International Airport, is the biggest in the world – it’s actually bigger than the city of Mumbai.
2. Travel during the off-peak season
Similarly to the price of flights, hotel room rates tend to drop off a cliff in the summer months and are noticeably cheaper during the Saudi ‘shoulder’ months of April to June and September. Sure, the summer is incredibly hot – and incredibly humid – but consider that most of the places you'll spend time in will be air conditioned to the extent that you might find yourself reaching for an extra blanket.
Bear in mind that while it may be cheaper in the summer, July and August tends to see an exodus of both locals and expats who can afford to travel to cooler climes. As such, some hotels and other amenities may well be closed for the full eight weeks.
3. Use public transportation
Dammam’s buses are clean, safe (most have separate sections for women and men) and very cheap, with tickets costing around SAR 2-5 for local routes. They run regularly and connect key locations like the Corniche, malls and historical sites. For budget-conscious travellers, this is a great alternative to taxis or renting a car, which can be significantly more expensive.
Even if you don’t make a habit of it, consider taking the bus from the airport into the city or between cities (there’s also a regular train service between Dammam and Riyadh if you fancy extending your stay). Intercity and airport routes are reliable and significantly cheaper than taxis.
The problem with taxis in Dammam, as elsewhere in Saudi Arabia, is that tourists often find that drivers are reluctant to use their meters, which means haggling in a currency you’re not familiar with about routes through a city you don’t know. Even aside from this, taxi fares can add up and the constant bartering can be tiring.
Ride-share apps have changed the game here, allowing you to lock in a price and a destination before you get in the car. They tend to be cheaper too. The only caveat is that some visitors have found availability a struggle, as there are not as many drivers as regular cabs. Take refuge in a nearby mall or coffee shop to avoid a hot and sweaty wait.
5. Snap up delicious food for a low price
Dammam offers a range of affordable dining options that allow you to sample local cuisine without blowing your budget. Head to local restaurants and street food vendors to enjoy dishes like shawarma, falafel, and kebabs for as little as SAR 10-20. Popular spots like Al-Quds Falafel or Shawarma House provide delicious, budget-friendly meals. Get yours to go and enjoy a picnic along the Corniche as the sun sets.
6. Visit free or discounted attractions
Dammam has a number of free and discounted attractions that offer great experiences for travellers on a budget. The Dammam Corniche is a must-see and completely free to enjoy, with beautiful seaside views, walking paths, and picnic spots. Other budget-friendly options include the Heritage Village, which is also very good value, has a minimal entrance fee and offers a glimpse into Saudi Arabia’s past. Public parks, such as King Fahd Park are also free and are a wonderful option for families with kids.
7. Explore Dammam’s beaches for free
Public beaches in Dammam – like on the Red Sea coast – tend to be free, although without your own wheels they can be tricky to reach. You will also need to take food and drink with you as Half Moon Bay, by far the nicest stretch of coastline, is a long way from the city. There are also beaches on Marjan Island. Bear in mind that public beaches are separated into those for bachelors (solo men) and those for families and solo women.
8. Skip the malls and hit the souqs
Dammam’s traditional markets, or souqs, are great places to find souvenirs at reasonable prices. Dammam Souq is a bustling market where you can haggle for everything from spices to textiles – you’ll get better deals here than at the shopping malls. In Al Khobar, there are a cluster of local shops on Prince Nayef Street and the Alissa Mall. Haggling is expected but remember to always be polite and respectful – if the price is too high, just walk away.
9. Save with discount passes
Some attractions in Dammam offer discounts for students, families or groups, so be sure to ask about any available deals. Certain cultural and historical sites may also offer combo tickets, allowing you to visit multiple attractions at a reduced price. For example, museums or galleries sometimes offer combined entry tickets, which can help stretch your budget further.
10. Look for local events and festivals
Dammam hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, many of which are free or very affordable. The Sharqiyah Festival and Eid celebrations often feature cultural performances, food stalls, music, and family-friendly activities that won’t cost much to attend. Keep an eye on local event listings during your visit to catch any free events that align with your travel dates.
