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Ad-Dammam

Saudi Arabia COUNTRY
1,500,000 CITY POPULATION
Municipal GOVERNMENT TYPE

Contents

Dammam City

Dammam, officially known as Ad-Dammam, is a vibrant and rapidly developing city in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. Serving as the capital of the province, Dammam holds a significant position as one of the Kingdom’s largest cities and a vital centre for commerce, industry, and culture. Its location on the Arabian Gulf gives it strategic importance, with its thriving port playing a key role in the region’s maritime trade and economy.

dammam

The city is part of a larger metropolitan area that includes Dhahran and Al Khobar, forming a bustling urban network. Dammam is well-known for being the heart of Saudi Arabia’s oil and gas industry. It is home to major oil companies and industrial zones, making it a vital contributor to the national economy. Beyond oil, the city is diversifying into sectors such as technology, manufacturing, and logistics, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.

Dammam seamlessly blends modern urban life with cultural heritage. The city features iconic landmarks, including Half Moon Bay, which is popular for its picturesque beaches, and King Fahd Park, one of the largest parks in the Kingdom. Cultural sites such as the Heritage Village showcase Saudi Arabia’s rich history and traditions, while contemporary attractions like the Dammam Corniche offer stunning waterfront views and recreational spaces.

Infrastructure development has been a key focus for Dammam, enhancing its connectivity and quality of life. King Fahd International Airport, located northwest of the city, is one of the world’s largest airports by area and serves as a major gateway for domestic and international travellers. The road network in Dammam is highly developed, connecting the city to other parts of the Kingdom and neighbouring Gulf countries. Public transportation systems are also expanding to accommodate the city’s growing population.

Education and healthcare are other prominent sectors in Dammam. The city hosts several universities, including Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, which offers diverse academic programmes. Healthcare facilities are state-of-the-art, with numerous hospitals and clinics providing high-quality services.

Dammam’s climate is characterised by its desert environment, with hot summers and mild winters. The city receives minimal rainfall annually, and its coastal location occasionally brings humidity. Despite the challenging climate, the city’s urban planning includes green spaces and shaded areas to improve liveability.

In recent years, Dammam has become a symbol of progress in Saudi Arabia. With its rapid urbanisation, economic diversification, and commitment to sustainability, the city is poised to continue its growth and prominence in the region. As a centre of innovation and tradition, Dammam represents the dynamic spirit of the Kingdom.

Dammam Population

Dammam is home to a diverse and steadily growing population, which exceeds 1.5 million people as of recent estimates. It is one of the most populous cities in Saudi Arabia, reflecting its importance as a hub for commerce, industry, and employment opportunities. The city’s demographic is a mix of Saudi nationals and expatriates from various countries, contributing to its multicultural environment.

The population in Dammam includes a large number of expatriates, many of whom are professionals working in the oil and gas sector, construction, technology, and service industries. This diversity enriches the city’s cultural fabric and supports its economic development. Saudi nationals in Dammam form a young and dynamic population, with many families benefiting from the city’s advanced educational and healthcare facilities.

Dammam’s population has grown significantly due to the city’s economic opportunities and urbanisation. The government has invested in housing projects and infrastructure to support this growth, ensuring a high quality of life for residents. With its mix of cultures and its position as a regional centre, Dammam continues to attract people seeking better career prospects and a modern lifestyle.

Data and Facts about Ad-Dammam

  • Location: Ad-Dammam is situated east of Riyadh, at coordinates 26°26′N 50°07′E.
  • Distance from Riyadh: Approximately 400 km (250 miles) east of the capital city, Riyadh.
  • Area: The city covers about 800 square kilometres (310 square miles).
  • Population: As of 2022, Ad-Dammam has a population of approximately 1,532,300, making it the fourth-most populous city in Saudi Arabia.
  • Airport: King Fahd International Airport, serving Ad-Dammam, opened on 28 November 1999.
  • Seaport: The city is home to King Abdul Aziz Seaport, the largest port on the Persian Gulf and the second-largest in Saudi Arabia, after Jeddah Islamic Port on the Red Sea

Administration

Ad-Dammam, located in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia, is managed by a structured and efficient administrative system that focuses on maintaining the city’s growth and providing quality services to its residents. The city is governed by the Eastern Province Municipality, which is responsible for urban planning, infrastructure, and public services. It works closely with the Eastern Province Governorate to implement national policies and ensure the smooth operation of various sectors, aiming to enhance the quality of life in the city.

The administration oversees the development and maintenance of essential services such as waste management, water supply, electricity, and sanitation. Roads and public transportation systems are also managed to ensure smooth movement within the city. Ad-Dammam’s districts are divided into smaller administrative units, allowing for efficient management of resources and quicker responses to local needs. These units address specific community issues, including neighbourhood security, traffic control, and public amenities.

Transportation is a significant focus of Ad-Dammam’s administration, as the city serves as a major hub for trade and travel. King Fahd International Airport and King Abdul Aziz Seaport are critical infrastructures managed under the administration’s supervision. These facilities are maintained to ensure efficient operations and to support the city’s economy. The public transport system, including buses and taxis, is regulated to meet the needs of residents and visitors.

Economic growth is actively supported by the administration, with a strong emphasis on industries like oil and gas, manufacturing, and international trade. Industrial zones are managed to promote investment while ensuring environmental sustainability. The city’s strategic location on the Persian Gulf is leveraged to boost trade and infrastructure development is prioritised to attract businesses and investors.

The administration also takes responsibility for education and healthcare services, ensuring residents have access to quality schools, universities, and medical facilities. Continuous improvements in these sectors are pursued to accommodate the city’s growing population. Environmental initiatives, including waste management, pollution control, and the creation of green spaces, are also given importance, with public awareness campaigns encouraging eco-friendly practices.

Law and order are maintained through close coordination with police and security forces. Advanced technology and surveillance systems are used to ensure public safety and reduce crime rates. The administration also seeks to involve the community in decision-making processes, gathering feedback from residents through surveys and consultations to address their concerns and implement improvements.

Economy

Ad-Dammam is the capital of the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia and serves as the epicentre for oil production and natural gas reserves. The city plays a vital role in the country’s economy due to its rich petroleum resources, which form the backbone of its industrial and financial activities.

The economy of Ad-Dammam is heavily reliant on the petroleum industry, with Saudi Aramco being the central organisation overseeing oil and gas production in the region. Saudi Aramco, the world's largest oil producer, manages vast oil fields and reserves, contributing significantly to the city’s and the nation’s revenue. A substantial portion of Ad-Dammam’s population is employed by Saudi Aramco, making the petroleum sector the primary source of income for residents.

In addition to oil and gas, Ad-Dammam also supports related industries such as petrochemicals, logistics, and transportation. The presence of King Abdul Aziz Seaport facilitates the import and export of goods, enhancing trade activities and creating jobs in the shipping and logistics sectors. These industries play a supplementary role in boosting the city's economic landscape.

The government’s focus on diversifying the economy under Vision 2030 has also encouraged investments in non-oil sectors, including manufacturing, construction, and services. However, petroleum continues to dominate Ad-Dammam’s economic activities, contributing to the city’s status as a key economic hub in Saudi Arabia.

Ad-Dammam’s strategic location near major oil fields and its advanced infrastructure have made it a hub for energy production and trade. The city’s reliance on the petroleum industry underscores its importance not only within Saudi Arabia but also on the global stage as a critical supplier of oil and natural gas.

Business Environment

Ad-Dammam, once a modest coastal town reliant on fishing, has transformed into a bustling urban centre following the discovery of substantial oil and natural gas reserves in the 1940s. This pivotal event spurred rapid industrialisation and urbanisation, leading to the amalgamation of Ad-Dammam with the neighbouring cities of Al-Khobar and Dhahran. Today, this unified region is known as the Dammam Metropolitan Area (DMA), serving as a vital economic hub in Saudi Arabia.

As of 2024, the DMA continues to experience significant economic growth and diversification. The services sector has expanded notably, with the entry of five major global services firms contributing to a 71% growth in this area. This development has propelled Dammam to achieve a 19-rank increase in the "Business Activity" dimension of Kearney’s 2024 Global Cities Index, underscoring the city's enhanced global competitiveness.

The King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam has also played a crucial role in the city's economic advancement. In the first half of 2024, the port reported a 37.4% year-on-year increase in container handling, managing 1.53 million standard units. This surge indicates robust growth in the maritime sector and reinforces Dammam's position as a key gateway for international trade and investment.

In line with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, Dammam has been focusing on diversifying its economy beyond oil and gas. The city has seen developments in various sectors, including logistics, manufacturing, and services, contributing to a more balanced and sustainable economic environment. The establishment of new industrial zones and the enhancement of infrastructure have attracted both domestic and international investments, further bolstering the city's economic landscape.

Infrastructure

Ad-Dammam, a key city in Saudi Arabia's Eastern Province, boasts a well-developed infrastructure that supports its role as a major economic and industrial hub.

Transportation

  • Air: King Fahd International Airport, located approximately 31 km northwest of the city centre, is the primary airport serving Ad-Dammam. It is the largest airport in the world by land area and offers connections to numerous international destinations.
  • Sea: King Abdul Aziz Port, situated on the Persian Gulf, is the largest port in the Gulf region and the second-largest in Saudi Arabia. It serves as a crucial gateway for imports and exports, handling a significant portion of the nation's cargo traffic.
  • Road: Ad-Dammam is connected to major cities such as Riyadh, Jeddah, and Bahrain through an extensive network of highways, including Highway 40 and the King Fahd Causeway. These routes facilitate efficient movement of goods and people across the region.
  • Rail: The city is served by the Saudi Railways Organization, with a passenger terminal established in 1981. Ad-Dammam is also a key junction in the proposed Gulf Railway project, which aims to connect all six Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states.

Public Transport: Efforts to enhance public transportation include the approval of an integrated system featuring light rail, bus rapid transit, and feeder buses. The Dammam Metro project, part of this initiative, is expected to improve urban mobility upon completion.

Utilities and Services: The city is equipped with modern utilities, including reliable electricity and water supply systems. Healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and recreational areas are well-established, contributing to a high quality of life for residents.

Industrial Infrastructure: Ad-Dammam hosts several industrial zones, such as the Second Industrial City, which accommodate a variety of manufacturing and service industries. These zones are supported by robust infrastructure, including roads, utilities, and communication networks, fostering economic growth and diversification.

Social Wellness and Human Resources

The government of Saudi Arabia envisions transforming its economy by reducing dependence on oil revenues and promoting diversified development across the country, including the Eastern Province and Ad-Dammam. Social wellness and human resources play a pivotal role in achieving this vision.

Ad-Dammam is central to the government’s initiatives for enhancing social infrastructure and creating entertainment hubs. Several large-scale projects are underway to improve the quality of life for residents and attract tourists. These include the construction of amusement parks, theatres, and other recreational facilities. These developments aim to provide residents with a vibrant social environment while contributing to the city’s economic diversification.

One of the major developments in the region is the King Salman Energy Park, which is planned between Dammam and Al-Ahsa. This massive project will cover an area of 50 square kilometres and serve as a centre for energy-related industries. The park is expected to create thousands of jobs, improve economic opportunities, and serve as a hub for innovation and technology.

Football remains a key aspect of social life in Ad-Dammam, reflecting its status as the national sport of Saudi Arabia. The Prince Mohammad Bin Fahad Stadium, a prominent landmark in the city, serves as the primary venue for football matches. It is home to major football clubs such as Ettifaq FC and Al Nahda Club, which have contributed significantly to the country’s football scene. The stadium also hosts national and regional tournaments, fostering community spirit and encouraging youth participation in sports.

These efforts align with the broader goals of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to enhance human resources by providing more opportunities for recreation, employment, and cultural engagement. Through these initiatives, Ad-Dammam is becoming a hub for social wellness and human development, paving the way for a more sustainable and inclusive future.

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Country
 Saudi Arabia
Province
Eastern Province
First settled
1923
Founded by
TheDawasir
Government
Body
Municipality of Dammam (امانة الدمام)
Mayor
Fahad Al-Jubair
Provincial Governor
Saud bin Nayef Al Saud
Area
Regionalcapital city
800 km2(300 sq mi)
Land
800 km2(300 sq mi)
Urban
800 km2(300 sq mi)
Metro
1,471 km2(568 sq mi)
Elevation
10 m (30 ft)
Population
 (2012)
Regionalcapital city
1,033,597[1]
Estimate 
(2020)
1,252,523
Urban
903,000[2]
Time zone
UTC+3(AST)
Postal Code
324XX
Area code(s)
013
Website
www.eamana.gov.sa
Sourced by wikipedia