Things To Do
in Dumai

Dumai is a bustling port city located on the eastern coast of Sumatra, Indonesia, known for its strategic maritime position and rich cultural heritage. The city is a melting pot of various ethnic groups, primarily Malay, Chinese, and Javanese, contributing to its unique cuisine and traditions. Dumai's economy thrives on trade, palm oil, and fishing, making it an essential hub for both business and tourism.

Visitors can explore beautiful beaches, vibrant markets, and historical sites, offering a glimpse into the diverse lifestyle of its residents.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Dumai
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Dumai Grand Mosque, a stunning architectural piece that offers a peaceful atmosphere for reflection.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local seafood restaurant, followed by a visit to Dumai's vibrant market where you can shop for crafts and local goods.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with a sunset stroll along the Dumai Beach, followed by dinner at a beachfront café offering local delicacies.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a trip to the nearby Bukit Batu Nature Reserve for a morning of birdwatching and exploring the lush rainforest.

afternoon
:

Visit the local museum to learn about Dumai’s history and cultural diversity, then have lunch at a traditional food stall nearby.

evening
:

Experience Dumai's nightlife by visiting a local karaoke bar or a live music venue, and enjoy dinner at a popular street food market.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Local Meal$2
🏨Budget Hotel Night$15
🚌Public Transport Ticket$1
Coffee at Café$1.50
🛍️Souvenir$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural diversity and heritage.
  • Affordable cost of living.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and beaches.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Infrastructure may be underdeveloped in some areas.
  • Language barrier for non-Indonesian speakers.
  • "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
  • "Terima kasih" - Thank you
  • "Tolong" - Please
  • "Di mana toilet?" - Where is the toilet?
  • "Apa kabar?" - How are you?

Places to Visit in Dumai

Visit one of these nice places.

Dumai Beach

A picturesque beach perfect for capturing sunset views and local fishing boats.

Dumai Grand Mosque

An architectural marvel that provides stunning photo opportunities both inside and out.

Bukit Batu Nature Reserve

A lush rainforest area offering beautiful scenery and wildlife photography options.

Culinary Guide

Food in Dumai

Dumai offers a diverse culinary experience, blending traditional Malay flavors with Chinese and Indonesian influences. Must-try local dishes include Nasi Goreng (fried rice), Ikan Bakar (grilled fish), and Soto Dumai (a regional soup). Don't miss the bustling food markets and street vendors that serve delicious snacks like Kerupuk (crackers) and Pisang Goreng (fried bananas). For those with dietary restrictions, vegetarian options are available, but it's advisable to communicate your needs clearly.

Dumai Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Nasi Goreng

A flavorful fried rice dish typically served with vegetables, eggs, and meat.

Must-Try!

Ikan Bakar

Grilled fish marinated with spices and served with sambal.

Soto Dumai

A rich soup made with meat, vegetables, and spices, served with rice.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Dumai Night Market

A vibrant market filled with stalls offering a variety of local street food and snacks.

Pasar Tradisional Dumai

A traditional market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and ready-to-eat meals.

Climate Guide

Weather

Dumai experiences a tropical climate with high humidity and temperatures ranging from 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F) year-round. The rainy season occurs from November to March, bringing heavy downpours and occasional flooding, while the dry season from April to October is characterized by clear skies and pleasant weather. Overall, the climate supports lush greenery and a rich ecosystem.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

Respect local customs by dressing modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

Greeting Customs

A slight bow or nod is a common greeting; handshake is acceptable among men.

Respect for Elders

Show respect towards elders by using polite language and gestures.

Safety Guide

Safety

Dumai is generally safe for travelers, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas, and be cautious with personal belongings in crowded places. It is advisable to keep emergency contact numbers handy and stay informed about local safety regulations.

Tipping in Dumai

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated; rounding up the bill is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but some establishments accept credit cards, especially in urban areas.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Rainy Season (November - March)

Expect heavy rainfall and humidity, making outdoor activities challenging.

Dry Season (April - October)

Ideal for outdoor adventures with plenty of sunshine and moderate temperatures.

Festive Season (Eid al-Fitr)

Experience local celebrations with vibrant festivities, but expect crowded markets.

Harvest Season (September - October)

Enjoy the local agricultural fairs showcasing fresh produce and traditional goods.

Nightlife Guide

Dumai at Night

Dumai's nightlife is vibrant yet laid-back, featuring a mix of local bars, karaoke lounges, and night markets. While it may not have the bustling club scene of larger cities, visitors can enjoy live music and cultural performances in various venues. Street food stalls come alive at night, providing a great atmosphere to mingle with locals and taste delicious snacks.

Hiking in Dumai

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Bukit Batu Hiking Trail

A scenic trail through the Bukit Batu Nature Reserve, offering beautiful views and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Mount Semeru Trail

Located a bit farther away, this trail provides a more challenging hike with rewarding panoramic views from the summit.

Airports

How to reach Dumai by plane.

Dumai Airport (DUM)

Located about 5 km from the city center, Dumai Airport offers domestic flights connecting to major Indonesian cities like Jakarta and Pekanbaru.

Getting Around

Walkability

Dumai is moderately walkable, especially in the city center where many shops, restaurants, and attractions are located close together. Sidewalks are available but may not always be well-maintained. However, walking may not be suitable for longer distances due to the heat and humidity; using local transport is recommended for farther destinations.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Malay Ethnic Group

The majority ethnic group in Dumai, known for their rich culture, traditions, and cuisine.

Chinese Community

A significant minority that contributes to the local economy and cultural diversity, particularly in business and culinary sectors.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Badminton

A highly favored sport in Dumai, played recreationally and competitively, especially among youth.

Football (Soccer)

Football is widely played and followed, with local teams participating in regional leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Dumai is generally manageable, but congestion can occur during peak hours, particularly near markets and schools. Public transportation options include angkot (minibuses) and ojek (motorcycle taxis), which are affordable and widely used by locals. Ride-sharing apps are also available, providing convenient travel options.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Dumai.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local eateries offer vegetarian dishes, but it's best to confirm before ordering.

Halal Food

Most food in Dumai is halal, but check for certification if necessary.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Dumai are available, with several hospitals and clinics offering basic medical services. However, more specialized care may require travel to larger cities like Pekanbaru. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses and to carry any necessary medications.

Discover Indonesia

Read more in our Indonesia 2025 Travel Guide.

Indonesia Travel Guide