Discover a metropolis rich in historic treasures when you visit the port city of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia’s cosmopolitan gem. This unique part of the world mixes its fascinating Arabic roots with a lively and youthful spirit that makes it an ideal destination for families, holidaymakers and business travellers alike.
Markets and malls
Shopping is amazing in Jeddah. Work your way through the commercial hub’s shiny malls and bustling souqs, which have something for everyone. Hunt down authentic Arabian souvenirs in the old town of Al-Balad, which is a maze of tight-knit alleyways, ancient architecture and souqs of all kinds. Lots of houses here are built from traditional coral stones and palm wood lattices - you can spend hours exploring and taking photos. Don’t leave without visiting the famous fish market: Everything from hammerhead shark to parrotfish is on sale, fresh from the Red Sea.
For a more modern shopping experience, visit the Mall of Arabia, which is close to King Abdulaziz International Airport. You’ll find everything from electronics to high street brands here, as well as a kids’ entertainment area and a buzzing food court. If high-end luxury labels are your bag, head to Red Sea Mall or El-Khayyat Centre.
Tastes around the globe
Eating out in this Saudi Arabian hotspot is a real treat. Jeddah is renowned for its international cuisine and there really is something for everyone. Take your pick from sweet spots such as Al Khayam, which serves up moreish bites, or Toki, a fusion of Chinese, Thai and Malaysian classics.
A land of surprises
Jeddah is the largest city in the Makkah Province and second biggest in Saudi Arabia after the capital, Riyadh. It’s also the most important port on the Red Sea basin.
You’ll also find the world’s highest fountain in Jeddah. King Fahd’s Fountain can be seen from pretty much everywhere, shooting into the air at 375 KM/ H with a reach of more than 1,000 ft. Visiting this breathtaking attraction as the sun sets is a magical experience.
Reefs, wrecks and floating mosques
Jeddah’s location on the Red Sea offers a plethora of stunning views, aquatic adventures and luxurious beaches. If you want water sports, head to Obhur beach for snorkelling, sailing, canoeing and jet skiing galore. Diving here is much less tourist-heavy than in Egypt’s Red Sea, which makes Jeddah a big draw for those wanting to explore the reefs and wrecks.
Another unmissable seaside jaunt is the Jeddah Corniche, a 30-km-long promenade that packs in hotels, restaurants, amusement parks and picnic spots. It’s the ideal place to go on a bike ride, do a spot of fishing or visit the beautiful Fatima Al-Zahra. Known as ‘floating mosque’, this intriguing structure is a popular spot for photos because it’s built into the water and therefore appears to float when the tides are high.
Fun of the fair
If you’re flying to Jeddah with the family, you won’t be stuck for things to do. Al-Shallal Theme Park is rollercoaster heaven with an ice-skating rink, pirate ship, huge carousel, restaurants and a games arcade. Atallah Happy Land Park on the Corniche also offers many rides, as well as attractions such as a Magical Dancing Fountain, not to mention an incredible cinema experience and live shows.
A city of culture
Art buffs will be in their element in Jeddah, which has a huge creative scene. There are monuments, structures and sculptures at every turn, including the world’s largest bicycle sculpture at Bicycle Square. Luckily, it’s summer all year round in Jeddah, so you can enjoy the warm climate while checking out the public art, spectacular sights and unforgettable city landscapes.