Looking for a quick escape from the city without taking time off work? Dammam is near beaches, deserts, and heritage towns. Here, you can enjoy a refreshing change of scenery over the weekend. So, if you're planning a peaceful day at the beach or a quiet drive into the desert, our guide will show you where to go, what to expect, and how renting a car in Saudi Arabia can make your weekend road trips even better.
If you are a foreign visitor, it’s best to land at King Fahd International Airport. Many car rental companies have pick-up locations here. You just have to book online in advance. Dammam is surrounded by places that offer natural beauty, cultural interest, and quiet relaxation—all within a few hours’ drive.
Public transport options are limited outside the city. There are no regular buses or trains going to most beaches, parks, or desert trails. Taxis are available in Dammam, but they can be expensive and hard to find in remote areas. Relying on ride apps also isn’t ideal once you leave the city.
This is why renting a car is the best choice for short road trips from Dammam. With your own vehicle, you can drive to places like Half Moon Bay, Al-Ahsa Oasis, or Jubail Mangrove Park. You can stop for fresh seafood in Qatif, take a break in Dhahran Hills Park, or watch the sunset at Khobar Corniche. There's no need to rush or follow someone else's schedule. You decide when to leave, where to stop, and how long to stay without worrying about finding a taxi or getting stranded far from the city.
If you're wondering where to drive from Dammam for a peaceful weekend escape, there are plenty of great options just a short distance away. In each destination, you can either swim, explore, or relax in nature.
Distance from Damman Airport: 73 km (1 hour drive)
If you're planning a quiet weekend by the sea, Half Moon Bay is one of the best places to visit near Dammam. The beach stretches over 15 kilometers and forms a natural crescent, which keeps the water calm and shallow. It’s perfect if you’re bringing children. There are no strong waves or deep drop-offs. You can let the kids wade, splash, or float without worry. The sand is soft and clean, so you can easily set up a picnic area or just relax while watching the sea.
You’ll find that it’s a very family-friendly spot. There are shaded shelters and some picnic tables along the beach, but most families bring their own chairs, tents, and food for the day. You can pack a barbecue grill and enjoy lunch with a sea view. The beach is open and wide, so even on busier weekends, you’ll have space to spread out. In certain areas, there are restrooms available, and during peak hours you might find vendors selling snacks or drinks nearby.
If your kids like being active, you can rent a kayak or hop on a small boat for a short ride along the bay. There’s also a paved walking path by the Corniche if you want to take a sunset stroll. The best time to visit is from November to March, when the temperature stays between 20°C and 25°C, which is cool enough to enjoy the outdoors without the summer heat.
Distance from Damman Airport: 163 km (2 hour drive)
If you're looking for a peaceful escape, Al-Ahsa Oasis is a perfect choice. It’s the largest oasis in the world, with over 2.5 million date palms spread across desert land. The area is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you walk through palm groves and explore ancient sites.
You can visit Al Qarah Mountain, where the caves stay cool even in summer. These natural formations are easy to walk through and safe for children. The nearby village has small shops that sell local crafts, snacks, and fresh dates. Another must-see is the historic town of Al Hofuf, where you’ll find the old souq, traditional mud-brick houses, and Ibrahim Palace, a fortress built in the Ottoman period.
The oasis also has natural springs, small canals, and farms where you can see how traditional irrigation systems work. You’ll love seeing the flowing water and spotting birds among the trees. If you visit during winter or early spring, the weather is pleasant, with daytime temperatures around 20°C.
Distance from Damman Airport: 36 km (31 minute drive)
If you're interested in history and seaside views, Qatif and Tarout Island is a great short trip from Dammam. These neighboring areas are among the oldest settlements in the region, with roots that go back over 5,000 years. You’ll find historic forts, coastal paths, and traditional markets. The drive is short and easy, making it ideal for a family day out. The coastal air is cooler here, and the views of the Arabian Gulf are peaceful and refreshing.
One of the highlights is Tarout Castle, located in the center of the island. It was built over ancient ruins and offers views across the sea and town. You will enjoy exploring the castle’s stone walls and towers. Nearby, you can stroll through quiet streets lined with old coral-stone houses and visit small cafes or shops selling local crafts. The island is also known for its fishing community, so you might see colorful wooden boats docked along the shore. Qatif is just next to the island. You can visit the Qatif Central Fish Market, one of the largest in the Eastern Province, where fresh seafood is sold daily.
Distance from Damman Airport: 82 km (1 hour drive)
If you love outdoor adventures, Abqaiq Desert Trails is a fun and quiet getaway into the desert. The desert landscape is untouched, with rolling dunes and rocky patches that are ideal for light hikes, desert drives, or watching the sunset.You can walk short trails, climb small dunes, or spot animal tracks in the sand. The best time to visit is from November to March, when the temperatures are cooler and the air is crisp. There are no shops or public restrooms in the area, so bring enough water, snacks, and sun protection.
Families often come here for simple activities like kite flying and sandboarding. A regular sedan can get you close to the main spots, but a 4x4 is better if you want to drive off-road. Abqaiq Desert Trails give you space to relax, explore, and enjoy time with nature, all within reach of the city.
Distance from Damman Airport: 131 km (1 hour and 25 minute drive)
Uqair Beach is a 2.5 km-long strip of soft white sand that sits on a shallow, gently sloping shoreline. The bay is about 70 meters wide, so there’s plenty of room to spread out. You’ll find public restrooms, a playground, and even stone picnic shelters under trees, which is perfect for a BBQ or light lunch. Fishing and beachcombing are favorites here, and the mild waves mean the kids can splash safely.
You’ll notice the beach runs along the site of the historic Uqair Fort and ancient ruins. The sand even "squeaks" when you walk. There are few shops on site, so bring your own drinks and snacks. Beyond the sand, you can explore more of Uqair’s past. There are old stone buildings, a mosque, a caravanserai, and coastal ruins rising just off the beach. The nearby Continent Hotel Al Uqayr has a children’s pool and café if you need a break from the sun.
Distance from Damman Airport: 151 km (2 hour drive)
When you visit Al Qarah Mountain, you're stepping into a geological wonder in the heart of Al‑Ahsa Oasis. This flat‑topped mesa rises about 75 meters above the surrounding terrain and peaks near 205 m above sea level. It’s made of Miocene‑age sandstone, marl, and limestone layers, shaped by erosion into stunning cliffs, hoodoo rocks, and caves. You'll see fractures that form linear cave corridors and massive chambers.
You can walk through a maze of around 28 caves stretching over 1.5 km. The trails range from easy paths to narrow passages where you may need to crouch or squeeze. You will find it exciting, but keep an eye when terrain tightens. Nearby, there's a small visitor center, cafés, restrooms, picnic spots, and souvenir shops to make your outing comfortable. Don’t miss the “Land of Civilizations” lighting in the main cave. Bring water, wear good shoes, and enjoy exploring this natural treasure.
Distance from Damman Airport: 51 km (34 minute drive)
If you are looking for a relaxed seaside day, Ras Tanura Beach is ideal. You’ll find soft white sand, calm and shallow water, and plenty of green spaces framed by palm trees. The beach is open 24/7, with free parking, restrooms, and designated picnic areas so you can set up under shade without crowds.
Kids can swim safely where the water stays shallow and clear, or try beach volleyball in a marked area. Many families come with fishing gear, so you might see them casting lines off the rocky edges. There’s also space nearby for kite flying or casual off-roading in the dunes behind the beach. If you visit later in the day, don’t miss the stunning sunset. It’s often quiet and cool enough for a full family stroll.
Besides swimming and paddling, you can explore more of Ras Tanura’s local character. The town itself grew around a major Aramco oil port and refinery complex, which is visible off the coast with giant tankers docked offshore . Afterwards, take a walk along the corniche, lined with cafes and playgrounds.
Distance from Damman Airport: 40 min (51 km)
Dhahran Hills Park is a beautifully maintained, family-friendly green space. You'll find lush lawns, vibrant flower beds, and shady trees. The park covers several hectares and has benches and ponds to sit beside. These are great spots for chats or watching the ducks glide by.
If you brought your kids, they will love the colorful playgrounds, with slides, swings, and climbing frames. The park is also wheelchair-friendly, with ramps and paved routes so everyone can join in. You'll find picnic areas under trees and even seasonal pop-up cafes and food stalls that open in cooler months.
In the evening, the park lights up with solar-powered butterfly lights. The paths are wide, about 3 m across, and the gardens get weekly care to stay green year-round. You can also run or bike along the designated tracks, and sometimes you’ll catch community events or walks organized here.
You don’t need to plan a big vacation to feel recharged. A short drive to a quiet beach or desert trail can be more than enough. Whether you’re taking the family to Half Moon Bay, exploring the old streets of Qatif, or walking through caves at Al Qarah Mountain, having your own car means fewer limits and more control over your time.
Final Rentals offers a simple, reliable way to rent a car in Saudi Arabia. You can book online in minutes, choose from economy to SUV, and pick up your car right at Dammam Airport. No stress, no hidden fees. Just clear prices and the freedom to drive wherever your weekend takes you.
