The origin of Dammam can be traced back to two thousand years back since there are some remnants of tombs indicating human habitations. However, there is no strong evidence since most of the areas were buried by the encroaching desert sands. This is one reason why only a brief history of Dammam is available.
It was in 1923 that Dammam was founded as a city by the Al Dawasir tribe that migrated from Bahrain. Upon the order of King Abdul Aziz, they settled within the area and established what we call today as Dammam. Initially, the tribe settled near Al Khobar, but later they created a larger city.
The modern history of Dammam as a city began in the early 20th century when the discovery of oil in the region brought a large number of workers and engineers to the area. In 1933, the Saudi government officially established the city of Dammam as the administrative center of the Eastern Province.
During the following decades, Dammam grew rapidly as a result of the oil industry and the influx of people coming to work in the area. This growth was further accelerated by a series of infrastructure projects, including the construction of a large port and airport, as well as the expansion of the road and rail networks.
With the oil boom and a growing population, Dammam has become a major economic and cultural center of the eastern province and the region. It continues to see a steady development and growth in various sectors, like housing, health, transportation, education, and tourism.