The Best Travel Guide to Jeddah

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Saudi Arabia

Jeddah

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Overview

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Jeddah The guide was updated: 2022-10-11

For centuries, Jeddah has been a meeting point for traders, travellers, and pilgrims in the Red Sea. It is a major port, an important commercial centre and the second-largest city in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia — famous for its wealth of restaurants, cafes and shopping districts, as well as for its comparatively liberal social life. But to many, the city is more important because it is a gateway for millions of pilgrims on their way to the holiest places in Islam: Mecca and Medina. It is a grand city with history, personality, and tons of opportunity.

Facts

Population:	4.6 million (2020)
Currency:	1 riyal (SAR) = 100 halalas
Search Accommodation:	Hotels »
Emergency numbers:	Police: 999 Fire: 998 Ambulance: 997
Newspapers:	Saudi Gazette
Opening hours:	The working week is generally from Sun–Thu with some businesses open Saturday mornings. Government offices: 7:30am–2:30pm. Banks: 9:30am–4:30pm. Private businesses: 8am–12pm and 4–8pm.
Tourist information:	Saudi Tourist & Travel Bureau Ltd. Center Al Madinah, Al-Madinah Al-Munawarah Rd, Mishrifah, Jeddah +966 2 665 9251 info@sttb.com Sat-Thu 8am–8:30pm Closed on Friday

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Section in Jeddah

Many of the city's attractions and entertainment can be found along the corniche, from bizarre sculptures and a record-breaking fountain to parks, restaurants and museums. But savvy travelers will also want to stray a bit from there to discover the old town with its white coral buildings and historic city gates, or visit some of the city's fantastic museums. There are also mosques, markets and a top-notch aquarium to explore, so visitors to Jeddah are sure to have a full itinerary.

Corniche

Corniche

The constant buzz of life on the 35km-long Corniche is a microcosm for the whole city. There is no better place in the city for people-watching, as throngs of students, lovers, families and elderly couples stroll along the coast or enjoy a picnic and the sea breeze.

Al-Balad

Al-Balad

The city of Jeddah dates back to the 7th century, when it was founded by fishermen in what is now the Al-Balad neighborhood. The area still retains its ancient feel, boasting some of the oldest and most beautiful buildings in the city, made of traditional coral stones and wood.

King Fahd's Fountain

King Fahd's Fountain

Located just off the Corniche in the waters of the Red Sea, King Fahd's Fountain is the tallest of its kind in the world. The water reaches a dizzying height of almost 300 metres. No walk along the Corniche would be complete without stopping to admire it.

Al-Rahma Mosque (Floating Mosque)

Al-Rahma Mosque (Floating Mosque)

Also known as the White Mosque because of its beautiful while marble exterior, this impressive architectural feat juts out over the water, creating the illusion that it is floating, particularly when lit up at night. Pilgrims on their way to Mecca often make a point to stop here to admire the building and worship.

Fakieh Aquarium

Fakieh Aquarium

For a look at the rich sea life in the area and around the world, check out the Fakieh Aquarium. It showcases a wide range of aquatic species, including turtles, sharks, an array of colourful fish and many more forms of marine life. There are also some entertainment options for children and a buffet restaurant in the complex. The dolphin show should not to be missed.

City Gates

City Gates

Jeddah's massive old walls were built to protect the city from Portuguese attacks coming from the Red Sea. Although the wall no longer stands, the six impressive gates and towers can still be admired throughout the city. The gates are attractively illuminated after dark, so a nighttime stroll through the old town in search of the gates is a great way to explore Jeddah.

Central Fish Market

Central Fish Market

Seafood lovers will not want to skip Jeddah's famous fish market. It can get a bit hectic (not to mention smelly), especially during the morning's catch sale which takes place every day, where the absolute freshest specimens can be bought. Even if you end up not buying anything, the market is a unique experience.

Abdul Raouf Khalil Museum

Abdul Raouf Khalil Museum

The nearly 2,500-year old history of the Jeddah area is showcased in this superb museum, which has exhibitions on everything from pre-islamic history, though pre-modern civilizations, to the rich Islamic cultural heritage of the city. The complex also contains a mosque and the facade of an old castle.

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