Dammam

On May 29, 1933, American engineers first discovered significant oil deposits in the Dammam No. 7 well. This discovery marked the beginning of large-scale oil production in Saudi Arabia and transformed the region economically. The drilling of Dammam No. 7, also known as the 'Prosperity Well,' was a pivotal event that led to the development of the city and its surroundings into a major oil hub.

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) held a significant summit in Dammam in 1981. This event was important for regional collaboration and marked one of the earliest meetings where leaders from the Gulf states gathered in solidarity to discuss economic, political, and security issues. The GCC summit in Dammam was crucial in setting a strategic framework for cooperation among Gulf countries.

On June 25, 1996, a bomb exploded at the Khobar Towers, a housing complex in Dammam, killing 19 U.S. service personnel and wounding hundreds. The attack was one of the most devastating terrorist attacks against American forces in the Middle East. It highlighted the vulnerabilities of stationed military personnel and led to significant changes in security protocols for U.S. installations abroad.

The first Dammam International Film Festival was held in Dammam on March 23, 2003. This cultural event brought filmmakers and audiences from within Saudi Arabia and internationally to celebrate cinema and artistic expression. It marked a significant step towards cultural openness and the promotion of arts within the Kingdom, paving the way for future festivals and cultural initiatives.

The King Fahd Causeway, a series of bridges and causeways connecting Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, was officially inaugurated in Dammam on May 21, 2005. It facilitated transportation and trade between the two countries, promoting economic cooperation and tourism. The causeway significantly reduced travel time and boosted bilateral relations between Saudi Arabia and Bahrain.

The King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) in Dammam inaugurated its advanced research institute on February 28, 2011. This institute aims to drive scientific research and innovation in the fields of petroleum engineering, renewable energy, and materials science. It has since become a leading center for academic excellence and technology development in Saudi Arabia.

On May 22, 2015, a suicide bomber attacked the Imam Ali Mosque in the al-Qadeeh district near Dammam during Friday prayers, killing at least 21 people and injuring over 100. The attack shocked the nation and underscored the ongoing sectarian tensions. It drew widespread condemnation, and the event led to increased security measures at religious sites across the country.

On September 14, 2019, two major oil facilities, including one near Dammam, were struck by drone and missile attacks, significantly impacting Saudi Arabia's oil production. The attack, claimed by Houthi rebels, temporarily cut Saudi oil production by half and caused concerns over global energy security. It highlighted vulnerabilities in the Kingdom's oil infrastructure and led to international condemnation.

The Dammam Metro project commenced on November 26, 2020, aimed at enhancing urban mobility and addressing traffic congestion in the city. The metro is part of a comprehensive public transportation initiative to modernize the city's infrastructure, improve connectivity, and support economic growth. It represents a significant step towards sustainable urban development in Saudi Arabia.

The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture, also known as Ithra, located near Dammam, was completed on August 7, 2021. This architectural marvel serves as a cultural hub, offering diverse programs in arts, science, and innovation. Ithra aims to enrich cultural dialogue, promote knowledge, and serve as a beacon of cultural renaissance in the region.