Dammam has a strong shopping culture — with no bars or nightclubs, malls and markets serve as social hubs as much as retail destinations. The mix runs from traditional souks to large air-conditioned malls.
The traditional market district around Al-Qazaz Street is the most interesting for visitors, with stalls selling perfumes, spices, gold, incense, and abaya fabric in a compact area that still operates on pre-mall rhythms. The Gold Souk concentrates jewellers in the traditional pattern; quality is generally good and bargaining is expected. Al-Shatea Mall on the Corniche is the most visited modern mall, with a mix of Saudi and international brands and a food court.