Things To Do
in Jeddah
Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, is a bustling port city on the Red Sea, renowned for serving as the gateway for pilgrimages to the Islamic holy cities Mecca and Medina. It skilfully intertwines ancient traditions with modernity, showcased through its historic district, Al-Balad, with centuries-old buildings, and the contemporary Jeddah Corniche, boasting waterfront resorts and the iconic King Fahd's Fountain.
As a melting pot of cultures, Jeddah offers an array of culinary delicacies, bustling markets, and a vibrant arts scene, making it a unique and dynamic city within the Kingdom.
- "Marhaban" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Afwan" - You're welcome
- "Inshallah" - God willing
- "Ma'a as-salama" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the famous King Fahd Fountain, the tallest water fountain in the world. Enjoy a stroll along the waterfront corniche and take in the stunning views of the Red Sea.
Head to the historic Al-Balad district, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to explore its charming old buildings and souks. Don't forget to stop by a traditional restaurant for a taste of local Saudi cuisine.
Spend your evening at the Red Sea Mall for shopping and dining. Afterward, relax at a café overlooking the sea and indulge in some dessert while enjoying the breeze.
Visit the Abdul Raouf Khalil Museum to discover the rich history and culture of Jeddah. Spend some time viewing artifacts and traditional handicrafts.
Explore the art scene by visiting the Athr Gallery, which focuses on contemporary Saudi art. Take a moment to appreciate the local artists' works and maybe purchase a unique piece.
Dine at one of Jeddah's rooftop restaurants to enjoy panoramic views of the city. Reflect on the day's cultural experiences while sipping on a refreshing mint tea.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history, including historical sites and traditional markets.
- Strategically located as a gateway for pilgrims traveling to Mecca and Medina.
- Beautiful coastal city with stunning Red Sea views and opportunities for water sports.
- Vibrant economy and job opportunities in various sectors, including tourism, trade, and finance.
- Modern infrastructure and development projects enhancing urban living.
- Extreme heat in summer months, making outdoor activities challenging.
- High cost of living compared to other cities in Saudi Arabia.
- Limited public transportation options, often necessitating car ownership.
- Cultural conservatism may be restrictive for expatriates and tourists.
- Air pollution and traffic congestion in urban areas.
Best Activities in Jeddah
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Relax on the sandy shores and take in the beautiful view of the Red Sea at Al Rahma Mosque Beach.
Explore the historic district of Al-Balad, with its traditional architecture, vibrant markets, and cultural sites.
Enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride along the picturesque Jeddah Corniche, with stunning views of the coast and various entertainment options.
Experience thrilling rides and attractions at the Al-Shallal Theme Park, ideal for families and adventure-seekers alike.
Discover a diverse array of marine life at the Fakieh Aquarium, perfect for marine enthusiasts and families.
Tours
Uncover the best of Jeddah with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Jeddah
Visit one of these nice places.
Stretching along the Red Sea coast, the Jeddah Waterfront offers stunning views of the sea and the city skyline, with plenty of photo opportunities.
The historic district of Al-Balad is known for its charming old buildings, colorful doors, and traditional architecture, providing a picturesque backdrop for photography.
As one of the tallest fountains in the world, King Fahd's Fountain offers a captivating sight and is a popular spot for capturing impressive water displays against the cityscape.
Food in Jeddah
Jeddah Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant rice dish mixed with spices, vegetables, and either chicken, lamb, camel, or fish. It's a staple of Saudi Arabian cuisine and can be found in local restaurants and homes alike.
Must-Try!
Similar to Kabsa, Mandi is a rice dish with meat, but it's cooked in a tandoor for a smoky flavor. This dish is a must-try for visitors and can be found in authentic Arabic restaurants such as Al Khayam and Al Romansiah.
A popular street food comprising thin layers of pastry filled with spiced meat, vegetables, or cheese, and then folded and griddled. Try Mutabbaq at local street stalls or the popular Albaik fast-food chain.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Jeddah better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore Balad Market for an authentic street food experience. From falafel and shawarma to various sweet treats, the market offers a wide range of local delicacies. Don't miss trying the traditional Arabic coffee and dates.
This bustling market is a great place to sample Middle Eastern street food such as kebabs, grilled meats, and fresh fruit juices. It's an excellent spot to interact with locals and immerse in the food culture of Jeddah.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is important to respect the cultural norm of limited interaction between unrelated males and females in public spaces. It is advisable to maintain physical distance and avoid any physical contact when engaging with the opposite gender.
Respectful attire is essential in Jeddah, especially for women. Modest clothing that covers the body is expected, and women are typically required to wear an abaya in public. Men are also expected to dress modestly and avoid wearing shorts in public.
It is important to be mindful of Islamic customs and practices. This includes refraining from eating, drinking, or smoking in public spaces during the fasting month of Ramadan, as well as showing respect when visiting mosques or other religious sites.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Jeddah with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Jeddah
Ensure a smooth experience
In Jeddah, tipping is generally expected in restaurants, hotels, and for certain services. It is customary to leave around 10-15% of the total bill as a tip, though this can vary depending on the level of service received.
In Jeddah, Saudi Riyal (SAR) is the primary currency, and cash is commonly used for smaller transactions. Major credit cards are accepted in many establishments, particularly in more upscale areas and hotels. It's important to note that some smaller businesses may prefer cash payment.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Jeddah.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Jeddah is during the winter season when the weather is mild and pleasant. Temperatures are comfortable, ranging from 15°C to 25°C. It is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher hotel rates and larger crowds.
Spring in Jeddah brings warm weather, with temperatures gradually rising. It's a good time to visit if you prefer less crowded tourist attractions and slightly lower hotel rates compared to winter.
Summers in Jeddah are extremely hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C. It is not the ideal time for tourism as outdoor activities can be challenging due to the intense heat.
Autumn in Jeddah sees a gradual decrease in temperatures, making it a relatively good time to visit before the winter season. It offers a balance between warm weather and lower tourist crowds.
Jeddah at Night
Hiking in Jeddah
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic valley located near Jeddah, perfect for hiking and enjoying the natural landscape, with trails that suit various skill levels.
A picturesque hiking spot that offers stunning views of the mountains and desert landscape, ideal for adventurous hikers.
Located just outside Jeddah, these mountains provide numerous hiking trails with varying difficulty levels amidst beautiful vistas.
A popular hiking destination with challenging trails that lead to breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
Known for its archaeological significance, this location also offers hiking paths around the ancient rock formations.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Jeddah through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Jeddah by plane.
The main international airport serving Jeddah, it is one of the busiest airports in Saudi Arabia and serves as a major gateway for pilgrims traveling to Mecca.
Located in Riyadh, approximately 850 km from Jeddah, this airport serves as a significant international airport in Saudi Arabia.
Situated in Dammam, about 1,100 km from Jeddah, this is one of the largest airports in the world by area and serves the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia.
Located in Medina, around 400 km from Jeddah, this airport handles a large number of passengers due to its proximity to the holy city of Medina.
Located in Abha, approximately 300 km from Jeddah, this airport serves the southwestern region of Saudi Arabia.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group, comprising the citizens of Saudi Arabia, including various tribes and regions.
A significant portion of the population made up of foreign workers from various countries, including those from South Asia, the Middle East, and Western countries.
A notable community of Palestinians who have settled in Jeddah, contributing to the cultural diversity of the city.
A sizable population of Egyptian expatriates who work in various sectors throughout the city.
Yemeni expatriates who have migrated to Jeddah, often for work or business opportunities.
A community of Syrian expatriates, some of whom have settled in Jeddah due to conflicts in their home country.
A smaller but significant diaspora of Lebanese expatriates living in Jeddah, often involved in business and trade.
Includes citizens from various Arab countries such as Jordan, Iraq, and Sudan who reside in Jeddah.
A smaller group of expatriates from Western countries, often professionals in various fields.
Expatriates from other Asian countries, including the Philippines, Indonesia, and Bangladesh, who contribute to the labor market.
The Soul of Jeddah
Discover the essence of Jeddah through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Jeddah, football has a massive following with local clubs like Al-Ittihad and Al-Ahli being major competitors in the Saudi Pro League.
Cricket has gained popularity in Jeddah, particularly among expatriates from South Asia. Local leagues and events are organized regularly.
Basketball is commonly played in schools and sports clubs. The sport has been growing in popularity, with local tournaments and events.
Beach volleyball, in particular, is popular due to Jeddah's coastal location. Both recreational and competitive play takes place throughout the year.
Track and field events are organized at schools and community sports events, promoting athletics among the youth.
Jeddah's coastal location provides opportunities for water sports like jet skiing, diving, and sailing, attracting both locals and tourists.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Jeddah.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Saudi cuisine leans heavily towards meat, many restaurants in Jeddah offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, such as hummus, falafel, tabbouleh, and grilled vegetable platters.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find options like grilled meats, rice-based dishes like Mandi and Kabsa, and fresh seafood. Many restaurants are accommodating to dietary needs and are willing to adjust dishes accordingly.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Jeddah with these cultural adventures.
