King Fahd International Airport (DMM) - Saudi Airports

King Fahd International Airport (DMM): Saudi Arabia’s Largest Aviation Hub

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King Fahd International Airport (DMM) is the main aviation hub for Dammam and Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province. Located 31 kilometers northwest of downtown Dammam, the airport is one of the largest in the world by land area and serves millions of passengers annually.

Opened in 1999 and named after the late King Fahd, the airport has steadily grown into a modern gateway, offering a wide range of passenger, cargo, and VIP services. Today, DMM is a hub for Saudia, flynas, and flyadeal, while also hosting leading international carriers like Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Air India Express.


Overview

CategoryInformation
Location31 km northwest of downtown Dammam
IATA CodeDMM
ICAO CodeOEDF
Coordinates26°28′16″N, 49°47′59″E
Elevation72 ft (22 m) above mean sea level
Runways2 parallel (16L/34R and 16R/34L)
Runway Size4,000 m × 60 m (13,123 ft × 197 ft) each
Terminal Facilities6-level main terminal, Royal Terminal, cargo facilities
Main Terminal Size327,000 m²
Aircraft Parking37 stands with aerobridges, 4 remote stands
Passenger Capacity12 million passengers annually
Cargo Capacity200,000 tonnes annually
Time ZoneUTC+3 (Arabia Standard Time)

King Fahd International Airport Terminals

Passenger Terminal

  • Large, modern facility handling domestic and international flights
  • Duty-free shopping, retail outlets, restaurants, and cafes
  • Free Wi-Fi, prayer rooms, currency exchange, ATMs
  • Jet bridges for seamless boarding and disembarkation
  • Special assistance for passengers with reduced mobility

Royal Terminal

  • Reserved for royal family, heads of state, and VIPs
  • Private lounges, luxury decor, and dedicated staff for personalized service
  • Independent entrance and exclusive security procedures

Cargo Facilities

  • Equipped to process imports and exports with cold storage and secure storage areas
  • Supports general freight, perishables, and valuables
  • Key for regional logistics, also supporting Saudi Aramco operations

Airlines and Destinations

  • Hub Carriers: Saudia, flynas, flyadeal
  • International Connections: 55 destinations across 22 countries
  • Domestic Network: 15 routes within Saudi Arabia (Riyadh, Jeddah, Medina, Yanbu, Tanajib, Shaybah, and more)
  • Pilgrimage Flights: Dedicated Hajj and Umrah flights to Jeddah and Medina

Passenger Experience King Fahd International Airport

Services and Amenities

  • Free Wi-Fi, prayer rooms, children’s play areas
  • Currency exchange, ATMs, and baggage wrapping
  • Information desks with multilingual staff
  • Special assistance services for reduced mobility travelers

Shopping & Dining

  • Duty-free shops offering perfumes, electronics, and luxury items
  • Saudi handicraft and souvenir stores
  • Dining options ranging from fast food to sit-down restaurants
  • Cafes and vending machines across the terminal

Lounges & Rest Facilities

  • Premium airline lounges with refreshments, business services, and quiet areas
  • Sleep pods available for short-term rest during layovers
  • Nearby hotels provide accommodation options for longer stays

Ground Transportation

Parking

  • Multi-level parking complex for 4,930 vehicles
  • Short-term, long-term, and valet services available
  • Secure, well-lit facilities with automated kiosks

Public Transport

  • SAPTCO buses connect DMM with Dammam and Khobar
  • Taxis available 24/7 at the arrivals area
  • Hotel shuttle services for select accommodations

Car Rental

  • On-site rental desks offering economy to luxury vehicles
  • 24/7 service with advance booking recommended during peak travel

King Fahd International Airport Airport Operations

  • Air Traffic Control: Advanced radar and communications systems for safe operations
  • Security & Safety: Passenger and baggage screening, on-site emergency services, and regular safety drills
  • Maintenance Facilities: Aircraft inspections, repairs, fueling, and de-icing handled on-site
  • Cargo: Equipped with forklifts, conveyors, and specialized storage for perishables and high-value items

Future Developments – Saudi Vision 2030

Dammam Airports Company (DACO) is leading ambitious expansion projects:

  • Terminal expansion to boost passenger capacity
  • Upgraded runways and taxiways for increased traffic
  • Smart technology including self-service kiosks and automated baggage handling
  • Cargo expansion to position DMM as a global logistics hub

Economic Impact

  • Job Creation: Thousands employed directly at DMM; more in related industries like logistics, tourism, and hospitality
  • Trade & Tourism: Handles over 200,000 tonnes of cargo yearly, supporting imports/exports
  • Regional Growth: Strengthens Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province as a business and tourism hub

Travel Tips for King Fahd International Airport

  • Arrive Early: Check-in and security can take longer during peak times and pilgrimage seasons.
  • Book Transport in Advance: Taxis are abundant, but pre-arranged shuttles or rentals are better during Hajj and Umrah.
  • Use Short-Term Parking for Pickups: Quick stops are cheaper and closer to the terminal.
  • Plan for Long Walks: The main terminal is large—allow extra time to move between gates.
  • Stay Connected: Take advantage of free Wi-Fi and use the airport app for flight updates.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the IATA code for King Fahd International Airport?
The IATA code is DMM and the ICAO code is OEDF.

2. Does the airport offer both domestic and international flights?
Yes, DMM handles domestic routes across Saudi Arabia and international flights to over 50 destinations.

3. Are there prayer rooms at the airport?
Yes, prayer rooms are available in multiple locations throughout the terminals.

4. Is Wi-Fi free at King Fahd International Airport?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is provided for all passengers.

5. Can I rent a car at the airport?
Yes, several rental companies operate at DMM, offering vehicles from economy to luxury classes.

6. How many runways does DMM have?
The airport has two parallel runways, each 4,000 meters long, suitable for large aircraft including the Airbus A380.

7. Is there a hotel inside the airport?
No on-site hotel, but multiple hotels are located nearby, with shuttle connections available.

Conclusion

King Fahd International Airport (DMM) is a vital aviation hub connecting Dammam to the world. With its modern facilities, expanding infrastructure, and role in Saudi Vision 2030, the airport continues to support economic growth, tourism, and international trade.

Whether traveling for business, leisure, or pilgrimage, passengers at DMM can expect efficient services and a comfortable journey.


ASM Flight Support Services

For inquiries regarding Flight Support, Fuelling, Ground Handling and Flight Supervision services at King Fahd International Airport (DMM) – Dammam, contact – sales@asm.aero

Get special rates, discounts, and benefits when booking through ASM.

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