Dammam, the capital of Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province, has a history that is as rich as the oil reserves beneath its sands. Once a quiet fishing village along the Persian Gulf, Dammam’s transformation into a bustling urban center is a testament to Saudi Arabia’s rapid modernization.
Before the discovery of oil, Dammam was a small settlement where pearl diving and fishing were the primary sources of livelihood. The Arabian Gulf’s warm waters provided an abundance of marine life, sustaining generations of families. The traditional dhows (wooden boats) dotted the coastline, and the rhythm of life was dictated by the tides.
Everything changed in 1938 when the first commercial oil well, Dammam No. 7, struck black gold. This discovery marked the beginning of Saudi Arabia’s rise as an energy superpower. The American company Aramco (now Saudi Aramco) established its headquarters in nearby Dhahran, bringing an influx of foreign workers and transforming Dammam into a cosmopolitan hub.
Modern Dammam is a fascinating blend of old and new. Skyscrapers tower over traditional souqs (markets), where the scent of spices mingles with the hum of construction cranes. The King Fahd Causeway, connecting Saudi Arabia to Bahrain, symbolizes the city’s role as a regional trade gateway.
Despite its rapid development, Dammam has retained its cultural roots. The Heritage Village offers a glimpse into pre-oil life, showcasing Bedouin tents, handicrafts, and traditional dances. Meanwhile, the Ithra (King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture) stands as a beacon of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, promoting arts and education in a futuristic setting.
As the headquarters of Saudi Aramco, Dammam sits at the heart of global energy politics. The 2022 oil price surge, driven by the Russia-Ukraine conflict, underscored the city’s strategic importance. Saudi Arabia’s decisions on production quotas—often made in Dhahran’s boardrooms—ripple through economies worldwide.
With climate change dominating global discourse, Dammam faces a paradox. While oil built the city, Saudi Arabia is now investing heavily in renewables. The NEOM megaproject and solar energy initiatives signal a shift, but Dammam’s identity remains tied to hydrocarbons. How the city navigates this transition will shape its future.
Dammam’s workforce is a mosaic of nationalities—Filipino nurses, Indian engineers, and American oil executives all call the city home. Yet, the kafala (sponsorship) system has drawn criticism for labor rights issues, a topic gaining traction amid global human rights debates.
Young Saudis in Dammam are pushing boundaries. From tech startups to underground art scenes, they are redefining what it means to be Saudi in the 21st century. Social media influencers from the city are challenging stereotypes, blending tradition with global trends.
From kabsa (spiced rice with meat) in alleyway eateries to gourmet dining in five-star hotels, Dammam’s culinary scene reflects its diversity. Don’t miss the Saudi coffee and dates—a symbol of Arabian generosity.
As Saudi Arabia diversifies its economy under Vision 2030, Dammam must reinvent itself. Will it become a green energy pioneer or remain an oil stronghold? One thing is certain: this city on the Gulf will continue to shape not just Saudi Arabia, but the world.