Dammam: The Jewel of Saudi Arabia's Eastern Province

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaban]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wadaeana]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [laa]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك/على الرحب والسعة
  [min fadlik/ala alrahb wasaeatan]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [aadhran]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kaifa haluk?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bikhair. waant?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatahadath al'inglizia?]
• I don't understandأنا لا أفهم
  [ana la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأود أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [awad 'an 'ara alqaimah, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [ana la akl allahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtik!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأريد أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [urid 'an 'adfa', min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [alnajdah!]
• Go away!انقلع!
  [anqalae!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [atassal bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [atassal bitabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت الطريق
  [laqad dalalet altariq]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أود أن أشتري...
  [awad 'an 'ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتفرج
  [ana faqat atfarij]
• How much is it?كم سعره؟
  [kam sairuh?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hadha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk khafd alsair?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam alsaa'ah?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [alsaa'ah alwahidah]
• Half past (10)النصف بعد (10)
  [alnusf baed (10)]
• Morningالصباح
  [alsaabah]
• Afternoonالمساء
  [almisae]
• Eveningالمساء
  [almisae]
• Yesterdayأمس
  [ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [alyawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [arbaa]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsah]
• 6ستة
  [sittah]
• 7سبعة
  [sabaa]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamania]
• 9تسعة
  [tisaa]
• 10عشرة
  [ashara]

• Where's a/the...?أين ...؟
  [ayn ...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma hu aluanaan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuk 'an tarini (ala alkhariata)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى يأتي الحافلة التالية؟
  [mata yati alhafilat altalea?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ....)
  [tazkirat (ila ....)]

Dammam's origins trace back to ancient times with its prime location on the Arabian Gulf, making it a hotspot for early settlers and traders. Archaeological evidence suggests that the area was inhabited as early as the Bronze Age, with early inhabitants engaging in fishing, pearl diving, and trading with neighboring regions.

In the 1920s, the Al-Dawasir tribe migrated to Dammam from Bahrain. This migration marked a significant cultural and demographic shift in the area. The Al-Dawasir tribe played a crucial role in shaping the modern identity of Dammam, contributing to the region's economic and social development.

The discovery of oil in Dammam in 1938 was a turning point in the city's history. The Dammam No. 7 well, also known as the 'Prosperity Well,' marked the beginning of Saudi Arabia's transformation into one of the world's leading oil producers. This discovery brought rapid industrialization and economic growth to the region.

In 1999, King Fahd International Airport was inaugurated, becoming one of the largest airports in the world by area. This development significantly boosted Dammam's connectivity with the rest of the world, fostering international trade and tourism.

Dammam has seen extensive modernization over the past few decades, with the development of cultural landmarks such as the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra), which opened in 2017. This iconic building serves as a hub for cultural events, exhibitions, and educational programs, highlighting Dammam's commitment to preserving and promoting its rich heritage.

Established in 1952, the Eastern Province Chamber of Commerce and Industry has played a pivotal role in the economic development of Dammam. The organization has been instrumental in attracting investments, supporting local businesses, and fostering a business-friendly environment, further solidifying Dammam's status as a key economic hub in Saudi Arabia.

Dammam is served by King Fahd International Airport (DMM), which is approximately 50 kilometers northwest of the city center. The airport is well-connected with major cities worldwide, including direct flights from Europe, Asia, and other parts of the Middle East. From the airport, you can take a taxi or use ride-hailing services to reach the city. Alternatively, there are shuttle buses that operate between the airport and various points in Dammam. For those traveling by land, Dammam is accessible via the King Fahd Causeway from Bahrain, and there are regular bus services from Riyadh and other Saudi cities.

Dammam has a well-developed transportation network. Taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked via apps like Uber and Careem. The city also has a reliable bus service operated by the Saudi Public Transport Company (SAPTCO), which covers major routes. For a more flexible option, car rentals are available at the airport and throughout the city. Be aware that traffic can be heavy during peak hours, so plan your travel accordingly.

The official currency in Saudi Arabia is the Saudi Riyal (SAR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger stores. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are plentiful in Dammam, and currency exchange services are available at banks and exchange bureaus. Always ensure you have enough cash for emergency situations.

Dammam is generally a safe city for tourists. However, like any urban area, it is important to stay vigilant. Avoid walking alone in isolated areas at night and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. The Corniche area is popular with tourists and generally safe, but it is always best to stay aware of your surroundings. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing can occur, so take standard precautions to safeguard your valuables.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The local police, fire department, and medical services are efficient and well-equipped. For medical emergencies, Dammam has several hospitals, including King Fahd Specialist Hospital and Dammam Medical Complex. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are widespread, and many are open 24/7, offering over-the-counter medications for minor health issues.

Fashion: Do dress modestly. Men should avoid wearing shorts, and women should wear abayas and cover their hair in public places. Religion: Do respect Islamic customs. During prayer times, avoid making noise near mosques. Public Transport: Do use designated seating areas. Avoid eating and drinking on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with 'As-salamu alaykum' (Peace be upon you). Handshakes are common, but only if initiated by the other person. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisines and accept food graciously when offered. Don't eat, drink, or smoke in public during the holy month of Ramadan from dawn to dusk.

To experience Dammam like a local, visit the Al-Shatee Souq, where you can find traditional goods and interact with locals. Spend time at the Dammam Corniche, a popular spot for families and friends to gather, especially during weekends. Don’t miss trying local dishes such as Kabsa and Mandi at traditional restaurants. For a unique experience, take a boat trip from the Half Moon Bay to explore the Persian Gulf. Engaging in conversations with locals can provide you with deeper insights into the culture and lifestyle of Dammam.