Dumai – Port City on the Malacca Strait
Dumai is an independent city in Riau province, on Sumatra's eastern coast le long de the Malacca Strait. The city is primarily connu sous le nom de an industrial port – a centre for oil refining and palm oil export. For visitors, Dumai is the gateway to the Malacca Strait's mangrove forests and Malay pêche culture, ainsi que the starting point for ferries to Malaysia (Malacca).
Attractions et activités
Dumai Mangrove Ecopark is la ville's pride: walk le long de boardwalks through mangrove forest and observe birdlife (herons, kingfishers). Pantai Purnama plage is la ville's à proximité relaxation spot. The local fish market (Pasar Ikan) offre the experience of a fresh morning catch. Bukit Gelanggang Indah park and Masjid Agung Dumai mosquée are city landmarks. The ferry depuis the harbour towards Malacca (Malaysia) is également an experience – with panoramic views of the Malacca Strait.
Culture et cuisine
Malay culture is the foundation of Dumai's identity – zapin dance and berzanji religious ceremonies are part of community life. Cuisine is built on fresh fish depuis the Malacca Strait: asam pedas (sour-spicy fish soup), gulai ikan (fish curry), and lempuk durian (durian paste sweets) are characteristic Riau-Malay dishes.
Sécurité publique
Dumai is a safe city. You can move autour de la ville centre and harbour area freely la nuit. Use reliable local operators for mangrove tours. During the saison sèche, haze depuis peat forest fires on Sumatra's east coast may occur – monitor air quality alerts. Medical care is available locally.
Informations pratiques
Dumai Pinang Kampai Airport has limited domestic flights. From Pekanbaru (Riau's capital), approximately 3 hours by car. A ferry également operates entre Dumai and Malacca (Malaysia). The best time to visit is April to September. Accommodation: simple and mid-range hotels.

