Living in Dammam: the ultimate expat guide
Everything you need to know for a successful life in Dammam.
Dammam is the capital of Saudi Arabia's Eastern Province and the kingdom's sixth-largest city, with a population of approximately 1.5 million. Situated on the Persian Gulf coast, the city serves as the administrative and commercial hub for the region that produces most of Saudi Arabia's oil wealth. The Greater Dammam metropolitan area, which includes neighboring Al Khobar and Dhahran, forms a connected urban zone offering diverse living and working options for expatriates.
Unlike the capital Riyadh, Dammam provides a more relaxed coastal lifestyle while maintaining access to excellent employment opportunities in the energy sector. The city has undergone significant development under Vision 2030, with improved infrastructure, entertainment options, and public spaces. Its proximity to Bahrain via the King Fahd Causeway (approximately 25 kilometers) adds an extra dimension for weekend getaways.
Five Reasons to Consider Dammam
- Tax-free income – Saudi Arabia does not levy personal income tax, allowing expatriates to maximize their earnings.
- Lower cost of living – Rent and daily expenses are 25-30% lower than in Riyadh, making it easier to save.
- Coastal lifestyle – The Corniche, beaches, and waterfront dining offer a quality of life uncommon in the Gulf region.
- Strategic location – Easy access to Bahrain and other Eastern Province cities, plus international connectivity via King Fahd International Airport.
- Career opportunities – The oil and gas sector, along with growing logistics and trade industries, provides stable employment for skilled professionals.
Working in Dammam: Employment and Career Prospects
Dammam's economy is built on oil, gas, and petrochemicals, with Saudi Aramco headquartered in nearby Dhahran. The Eastern Province accounts for the majority of Saudi Arabia's petroleum production, creating strong demand for engineers, technicians, and project managers. Beyond energy, the city has growing sectors in logistics, healthcare, education, and retail.
Key Industries and Employers
The dominant employers include Saudi Aramco, SABIC, and various international oil service companies such as Schlumberger, Halliburton, and Baker Hughes. The King Abdulaziz Port, one of the largest in the Gulf, supports a thriving logistics and shipping sector. Healthcare facilities like Dammam Medical Complex and private hospitals recruit international medical professionals.
Work Permits and Visas
Foreign nationals require an Employment Visa and subsequent Iqama (residence permit) to work legally in Saudi Arabia. The process is employer-driven: your Saudi sponsor initiates the application through the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development. As of 2025, work permits are classified into three skill-based categories: High-Skilled, Skilled, and Basic. The Iqama costs approximately SAR 650 (USD 175) annually for issuance, while work permit fees are typically covered by employers.
The following table summarizes key employment indicators for Dammam:
Unemployment rate (Eastern Province) | 5.8% |
Average monthly salary (net) | SAR 7,250 (USD 1,930) |
Main sectors hiring expatriates | Oil & gas, engineering, healthcare, IT, education |
Sources: Numbeo 2025, General Authority for Statistics
Working in Dammam
Dammam, the Eastern province's capital city, is a very dynamic city in Saudi Arabia, almost as much as Khobar. It is the 6th largest city in ...
Higher Education in Dammam: Universities and Programs
Dammam is home to Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University (IAU), one of Saudi Arabia's leading research institutions. The university offers programs across 21 colleges and enrolls over 45,000 students, including international scholars. For expatriates considering further education or those with university-age children, understanding the local higher education landscape is essential.
Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University
Established in 1975 and achieving independent university status in 2009, IAU is ranked among the top 500 universities globally according to QS World University Rankings 2026. The university specializes in medicine, engineering, architecture, and health sciences. International students typically pay tuition fees starting at approximately SAR 68,000 (USD 18,100) per year, though scholarships covering tuition, accommodation, and monthly stipends are available for qualified candidates.
Admission and Recognition
International applicants must provide attested academic transcripts and demonstrate English proficiency for programs taught in English. Degree recognition for foreign qualifications is managed through the Ministry of Education, with most Western and Asian degrees accepted subject to verification. Professional fields such as engineering and medicine may require additional licensing examinations.
Other higher education options in the Greater Dammam area include technical colleges under the Technical and Vocational Training Corporation (TVTC) and Prince Mohammad Bin Fahd University in Al Khobar.
Sources: Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, QS World University Rankings
Schools for Expatriate Children in Dammam
Families relocating to Dammam will find a range of international schools offering curricula from different countries. The Eastern Province has a well-established expatriate education infrastructure, though demand often exceeds supply at top-rated institutions. Early application is advisable, particularly for the academic year starting in September.
International School Options
ISG Dammam (International Schools Group) offers an American curriculum from Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12. The school is accredited by the Middle States Association and provides AP Capstone courses for high school students. Annual tuition ranges from SAR 23,050 to SAR 48,400 (USD 6,100–12,900) depending on grade level. ISG operates as a not-for-profit organization.
Al-Majd International School follows the British curriculum and serves students from early years through secondary level. Other options include various Indian curriculum schools (CBSE) and Pakistani schools serving those communities.
Enrollment and Fees
Most international schools require the following for enrollment: copies of passports, previous school records, immunization records, and passport-sized photographs. Some schools conduct placement assessments. Fees are typically paid annually or in three installments.
ISG Dammam (American curriculum) | SAR 23,050–48,400/year |
International primary school (average) | SAR 29,800/year |
Private preschool/kindergarten | SAR 1,670/month |
Sources: International Schools Group, Numbeo 2025
Finding Housing in Dammam: Neighborhoods and Rentals
Dammam offers varied housing options, from modern apartments in the city center to spacious villas in residential compounds. Rental prices are notably lower than in Riyadh or Jeddah, making it possible to secure quality accommodation within moderate budgets. Many expatriates choose to live in neighboring Al Khobar, which is approximately 20 minutes away and known for its more modern urban planning.
Popular Neighborhoods for Expatriates
Al Shati Al Sharqi (Eastern Corniche) is the most upscale area, featuring seafront villas, luxury apartments, and proximity to restaurants and entertainment. Al Rayan offers spacious family homes near hospitals and schools. Al Firdous and Al Rawdah are well-connected residential districts with a mix of apartments and villas, popular among working professionals. Al Adama and Al Rakah provide more affordable options and are home to many South Asian expatriates.
Rental Prices and Procedures
Leases in Saudi Arabia are typically annual, with rent often paid in one to four installments via post-dated checks. Landlords may request proof of employment and a copy of your Iqama. Furnished apartments are available for short-term stays, particularly useful during the initial relocation period.
1-bedroom apartment (city center) | SAR 2,000/month (USD 535) |
1-bedroom apartment (outside center) | SAR 1,460/month (USD 390) |
3-bedroom apartment (city center) | SAR 3,620/month (USD 965) |
3-bedroom apartment (outside center) | SAR 2,470/month (USD 660) |
Sources: Numbeo 2025
Accommodation in Dammam
Dammam is the capital city of the Eastern Province, which is made up of smaller cities that, together, form the Greater Dammam Area, or Dammam ...
Leisure and Culture: Things to Do in Dammam
Dammam has developed considerably as a leisure destination in recent years, with waterfront attractions, cultural venues, and family entertainment options. The city's coastal location provides opportunities for beach activities, while modern shopping malls and restaurants cater to diverse tastes.
Outdoor and Coastal Activities
The Dammam Corniche stretches along the Arabian Gulf, offering walking paths, playgrounds, and cafes with sea views. Marjan Island (Coral Island), connected by a causeway from the Corniche, is popular for picnics, pedal boating, and watching the sunset from its lighthouse. Half Moon Bay, about 40 kilometers south of the city, features a crescent-shaped beach ideal for swimming, camping, and water sports.
Cultural Attractions
The Heritage Village on the Corniche showcases traditional Saudi architecture, crafts, and historical artifacts across five floors. Entry costs approximately SAR 20 (USD 5), with subsequent visits free. The Dammam Regional Museum, currently being expanded, houses archaeological finds from the Eastern Province. Approximately 30 minutes away, the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) in Dhahran is a world-class facility featuring museums, theaters, a library, and art exhibitions.
Entertainment and Dining
King Fahd Park, spanning over 100 hectares, includes artificial lakes, gardens, and amusement rides. Dolphin Village on Marjan Island offers marine shows and water park attractions. For shopping and dining, Marina Mall, Al Shatea Mall, and Othaim Mall provide a range of international brands and restaurants. The proximity to Bahrain via the King Fahd Causeway allows for weekend trips, as Bahrain offers additional entertainment options.
Sources: Visit Saudi, TripAdvisor
Daily Life in Dammam: Transport, Climate, and Lifestyle
Life in Dammam follows the rhythm of the Saudi work week, which runs Sunday to Thursday, with Friday and Saturday as the weekend. The city experiences a hot desert climate with summer temperatures frequently exceeding 45°C (113°F) from June to August. Winters are mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59–77°F), making November to March the ideal period for outdoor activities.
Getting Around
Most residents rely on private cars for daily transportation, and traffic can be congested during peak hours. Ride-hailing apps Uber and Careem operate throughout the city and are widely used by expatriates without vehicles. The SAPTCO public bus network connects Dammam with Al Khobar, Dhahran, and Qatif, with tickets costing just SAR 3.45 (USD 0.92). Buses run from 5:30 AM to 11:30 PM daily, with departures every 10 minutes on main routes.
Practical Considerations
Banking is straightforward once you have an Iqama, with Al Rajhi Bank, SABB, and Riyad Bank among the popular choices. Mobile phone plans are available from STC, Mobily, and Zain, with monthly packages starting around SAR 117 (USD 31) for data and calls. Utilities for a standard apartment average SAR 450 (USD 120) monthly, though air conditioning during summer significantly increases electricity costs.
Saudi Arabia maintains conservative social norms based on Islamic principles. While reforms under Vision 2030 have opened entertainment venues and relaxed some dress codes, expatriates should remain respectful of local customs. Alcohol is strictly prohibited throughout the Kingdom.
Cost of Living in Dammam: Budgeting for Your Move
Dammam offers one of the more affordable cost-of-living options among major Saudi cities. According to Numbeo data, the city is approximately 42% less expensive than major American cities and 25% cheaper than Riyadh when factoring in rent. The absence of income tax means that take-home pay goes further than in most Western countries.
Monthly Budget for a Single Person
The following table outlines estimated monthly expenses for a single expatriate living in Dammam:
Rent (1-bedroom, city center) | SAR 2,000 |
Utilities (electricity, water, internet) | SAR 680 |
Groceries | SAR 1,000 |
Transportation (fuel or ride-hailing) | SAR 400 |
Dining out and entertainment | SAR 600 |
Total (single person) | SAR 4,680 (USD 1,250) |
Monthly Budget for a Family of Four
Rent (3-bedroom apartment) | SAR 3,600 |
Utilities | SAR 900 |
Groceries | SAR 2,800 |
Transportation | SAR 700 |
International school (one child) | SAR 3,000 |
Health insurance (family) | SAR 500 |
Dining and leisure | SAR 1,200 |
Total (family of four) | SAR 12,700 (USD 3,385) |
Sources: Numbeo 2025, ISG Tuition Fees
In Short
Dammam offers expatriates a practical combination of career opportunities, affordable living costs, and a coastal lifestyle that sets it apart from other Saudi cities. The tax-free salaries in the oil and gas sector, combined with lower rent and expenses compared to Riyadh, allow for significant savings. The city's ongoing development under Vision 2030 continues to improve infrastructure, entertainment options, and quality of life.
The Eastern Province's established expatriate community and proximity to Bahrain add social and recreational dimensions that make long-term stays more comfortable. While summers are intensely hot and social norms require adjustment, the overall proposition for professionals in energy, engineering, and healthcare is compelling. To connect with others who have made the move and to get practical advice, join the Dammam forum on Expat.com.
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