Jeddah, Saudi Arabia Travel Guide

Discover Jeddah: A city of historical charm and modern marvels, where the Red Sea meets rich culture and vibrant life.

Jeddah is a vibrant city located on the coast of the Red Sea in Saudi Arabia. Known for its captivating blend of ancient and modern, Jeddah offers a unique experience for tourists. The city is famous for its historical significance, modern architecture, and beautiful coastline. Al-Balad, the old town, is a UNESCO World Heritage site with narrow streets and traditional coral houses. It gives a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the region. Jeddah's Corniche is a must-visit, stretching along the coastline with parks, beaches, and sculptures. It's a perfect place for a leisurely walk or a picnic. The King Fahd Fountain, the tallest of its kind in the world, shoots water up to 312 meters and is a spectacular sight at night. For those interested in shopping, Jeddah offers a variety of options, from traditional souks to modern malls. The Red Sea Mall and the Mall of Arabia are popular destinations. Food lovers will enjoy the city's diverse culinary scene, which includes traditional Saudi dishes and international cuisine. Seafood is a highlight due to Jeddah's coastal location. Don't miss trying local favorites like Kabsa and Mutabbaq. Jeddah is also a gateway for pilgrims heading to Mecca, making it a city of great religious significance. The city's mix of the old and the new, combined with its scenic beauty and cultural richness, makes it a compelling destination for travelers.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Jeddah.

Visit Al-Balad in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy a quieter experience.
Dress modestly, as Jeddah follows conservative cultural norms.
Try the local seafood, especially in restaurants along the Corniche.
Make sure to carry cash as some smaller shops and markets do not accept credit cards.
Plan your visit during the winter months (November to February) for more pleasant weather.

Neighbourhoods in Jeddah

Al Balad

Al Khalidiyah

Al Hamra

Al Shatea

Al Andalus

Explore All Neighbourhoods in Jeddah

Explore Jeddah: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Jeddah

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Fakieh Aquarium

Delve into the aquatic wonders of Fakieh Aquarium in Jeddah, a must-visit tourist attraction showcasing marine life diversity in an engaging and educational setting.

4.1

Atallah Happy Land Park

Discover endless joy and excitement at Atallah Happy Land Park, Jeddah's top amusement destination for families and thrill-seekers alike.

3.9

King Fahad's Fountain

Experience the breathtaking beauty of King Fahad's Fountain, an iconic symbol of Jeddah and one of the tallest fountains in the world, with stunning light displays.

4.5

Jeddah Waterfront Harbor

Explore Jeddah Waterfront Harbor: A Scenic Gem by the Red Sea, Offering Culture, Recreation, and Breathtaking Views in Saudi Arabia.

4.6

Best landmarks in Jeddah

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Roshn Waterfront

Explore the beauty of Jeddah at Roshn Waterfront, a stunning beach pavilion offering relaxation, recreation, and breathtaking views of the Red Sea.

4.5

Fakieh Aquarium

Discover the wonders of marine life at Fakieh Aquarium in Jeddah, a top family-friendly tourist attraction filled with vibrant sea creatures and interactive exhibits.

4.1

Middle Corniche Park

Explore the lush landscapes and stunning coastal views at Middle Corniche Park, Jeddah's premier destination for relaxation and recreation.

4.2

Atallah Happy Land Park

Experience endless fun at Atallah Happy Land Park, Jeddah's top amusement park featuring thrilling rides, games, and delightful dining options for all ages.

3.9

Best restaurants in Jeddah

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Khayal Restaurant | مطعم خيال

Experience authentic Turkish and Middle Eastern cuisine at Khayal Restaurant in Jeddah, where every dish tells a story.

4.2

Blue Ocean Restaurant

Experience culinary excellence at Blue Ocean Restaurant in Jeddah with its exquisite seafood and American dishes complemented by stunning ocean views.

4.2

The Cheesecake Factory

Experience the ultimate American dining adventure at The Cheesecake Factory in Jeddah—where delicious meals meet decadent desserts.

4.4

Belajio Resort

Discover Lebanese culinary excellence at Belajio Resort in Jeddah—where flavor meets elegance in a family-friendly atmosphere.

4.0

Best bars in Jeddah

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Ariba Lounge

Discover the vibrant ambiance of Ariba Lounge in Jeddah, a perfect spot for relaxation and social gatherings with delicious food and drinks.

4.2

Chill Lounge

Discover the luxurious Chill Lounge in Jeddah, a vibrant oasis for relaxation, exquisite dining, and exceptional hookah experiences.

4.1

ADANI BAR

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and unique drink offerings at Adani Bar in Jeddah, where every sip is a celebration of flavor.

3.9

ويكند لاونج

Discover the elegance of ويكند لاونج, a chic lounge blending café and restaurant vibes in the heart of Jeddah, perfect for relaxation and fine dining.

4.1

Best nightclubs in Jeddah

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Alfursan Lounge

Experience luxury and comfort at the Alfursan Lounge, King Abdulaziz International Airport, redefining your travel experience.

4.2

Castana lounge كستنا لاونج

Explore the vibrant ambiance and authentic Lebanese flavors at Castana Lounge in Jeddah, a culinary gem for food lovers.

4.3

Iron Camel Bar الجمل الحديدي

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Jeddah at Iron Camel Bar, where leisure meets entertainment in a stylish setting.

4.9

TheClub

Experience laughter and culture at TheClub, Jeddah's premier destination for comedy, theater, and vibrant nightlife.

4.5

Best shops in Jeddah

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Red Sea Mall

Experience the ultimate shopping and entertainment adventure at Red Sea Mall, Jeddah's premier destination for retail therapy and culinary delights.

4.5

Cenomi Mall of Arabia

Explore the bustling Cenomi Mall of Arabia in Jeddah, a shopping haven featuring hundreds of stores, diverse dining, and family-friendly attractions.

4.4

Al Andalus Mall

Experience shopping like never before at Al Andalus Mall in Jeddah, where style meets entertainment and delicious dining awaits.

4.3

Aziz Mall

Experience the ultimate shopping and dining destination at Aziz Mall in Jeddah, where style meets leisure in a vibrant atmosphere.

4.3

Explore Jeddah on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Jeddah, mapped for you.

Jeddah Essentials

Jeddah is served by King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED), one of the busiest airports in Saudi Arabia. The airport is well-connected to major cities around the world, including London, New York, Dubai, and Istanbul. From the airport, you can take a taxi or arrange for hotel shuttle services to get to your accommodation. The airport is approximately 19 kilometers north of the city center, and the journey typically takes about 30 minutes by car.
Jeddah has various transportation options including taxis, ride-sharing services like Uber and Careem, and public buses. The Haramain High-Speed Railway connects Jeddah to Mecca and Medina, making it convenient for pilgrims. Renting a car is another option, but be mindful of local driving customs and traffic conditions. The city is also developing a metro system, which will further enhance public transport options.
The official currency in Saudi Arabia is the Saudi Riyal (SAR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are abundant in Jeddah, and many offer services in multiple languages. It's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases or in case you visit areas where card payment is not available.
Jeddah is generally a safe city for tourists, but it is always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Some neighborhoods, like Al-Balad, are known for their vibrant street life but also have higher petty crime rates, so stay alert. Always follow local laws and customs to ensure a trouble-free visit.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Jeddah has modern medical facilities, including hospitals and clinics that offer high-quality care. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues, and many pharmacists speak English.
Fashion: Do dress modestly; women should wear an abaya, and men should avoid shorts. Religion: Do respect Islamic customs. Non-Muslims are not allowed to enter Mecca. Public Transport: Do respect seating arrangements; women and families have designated areas. Greetings: Do greet with 'As-Salamu Alaykum' (Peace be upon you) and a handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine. Don’t eat, drink, or smoke in public during Ramadan from dawn to sunset.
To experience Jeddah like a local, visit the Al-Balad historic district, known for its traditional architecture and bustling souks. Try local dishes such as Kabsa and Mutabbaq at traditional restaurants. Engage with locals in Arabic if you can, as it shows respect and interest. Don’t miss the Jeddah Corniche, a waterfront area with beautiful views, especially during sunset.

When is the best time to visit Jeddah?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Jeddah

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Jeddah. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloMarhaba
  [mar-ha-ba]
- GoodbyeMa'a as-salama
  [ma-a as-sa-la-ma]
- YesNa'am
  [na-am]
- NoLa
  [la]
- Please/You're welcomeMin fadlik
  [min fa-dlak]
- Thank youShukran
  [shuk-ran]
- Excuse me/SorryAasif
  [aa-sif]
- How are you?Kaif halak?
  [ka-if ha-lak]
- Fine. And you?Zayn. Wa ant?
  [zayn. wa ant]
- Do you speak English?Hal tatakallam al-ingliziya?
  [hal ta-ta-kal-lam al-in-gli-zi-ya]
- I don't understandAna la afham
  [a-na la af-ham]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseAurid an ara al-qeemat, min fadlik
  [au-rid an a-ra al-ke-mat, min fa-dlak]
- I don't eat meatAna la akul lahman
  [a-na la a-kul la-hman]
- Cheers!Saha
  [sa-ha]
- I would like to pay, pleaseAurid an adfa', min fadlik
  [au-rid an ad-fa', min fa-dlak]
- Help!Musaid
  [mu-said]
- Go away!Irhal!
  [ir-hal]
- Call the Police!Ittasal bil-shurta!
  [it-ta-sal bil-shur-ta]
- Call a doctor!Ittasal bil-tabib!
  [it-ta-sal bil-ta-bib]
- I'm lostDha'ayt
  [dha-ayt]
- I'm illAna mareed
  [a-na ma-reed]
- I'd like to buy...Aurid an ashtar...
  [au-rid an ash-tar]
- I'm just lookingAna faqat atadabbar
  [a-na fa-qat a-ta-dab-bar]
- How much is it?Kam thamanuhu?
  [kam tha-ma-nu-hu]
- That's too expensiveHatha ghali jiddan
  [ha-tha gha-li jid-dan]
- Can you lower the price?Hal tastaqdir tanzil al-si'ar?
  [hal tas-taq-dir tan-zil al-si-ar]
- What time is it?Kam al-waqt?
  [kam al-waqt]
- It's one o'clockHuwa al-wahid
  [hu-wa al-wa-hid]
- Half past (10)Nisf al-ashir
  [nisf al-a-shir]
- MorningSabaah
  [sa-baah]
- AfternoonDuhur
  [du-hur]
- EveningMasaa
  [ma-saa]
- YesterdayAms
  [ams]
- TodayAl-yawm
  [al-yawm]
- TomorrowGhadan
  [gha-dan]
- 1Wahid
  [wa-hid]
- 2Ithnayn
  [ith-nayn]
- 3Thalatha
  [tha-la-tha]
- 4Arba'a
  [ar-ba-a]
- 5Khamsa
  [kham-sa]
- 6Sitta
  [sit-ta]
- 7Saba'a
  [sa-ba-a]
- 8Thamania
  [tha-ma-nia]
- 9Tis'a
  [tis-a]
- 10Ashara
  [a-sha-ra]
- Where's a/the...?Ein huwa al...?
  [ein hu-wa al]
- What's the address?Ma huwa al-`unwan?
  [ma hu-wa al-un-wan]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Hal tastaqdir an tureeni (ala al-khari-ta)?
  [hal tas-taq-dir an tu-ree-ni ala al-ka-ri-ta]
- When's the next (bus)?Mati al-safir al-qadim?
  [ma-ti al-sa-fir al-ka-dim]
- A ticket (to ....)Takat (ila ....)
  [ta-kat ila]

History of Jeddah

Jeddah's history dates back over 2,500 years when it was initially established as a small fishing village. Over the centuries, it evolved into a bustling port due to its strategic location on the Red Sea.
In 647 AD, the Caliph Uthman ibn Affan declared Jeddah the official port for Muslim pilgrims arriving by sea to perform Hajj in Mecca. This transformed the city into a vital hub for pilgrims from all corners of the Islamic world.
In 1517, Jeddah fell under Ottoman control, which lasted for nearly four centuries. The Ottomans fortified the city with walls and towers to protect it from potential invasions, remnants of which can still be seen today.
In the early 20th century, Jeddah became a part of the Kingdom of Hejaz. During this period, the city experienced significant cultural and architectural development, blending traditional Arabian styles with Ottoman influences.
Jeddah played a crucial role in the unification of Saudi Arabia in 1932 under King Abdulaziz Al Saud. The city remained a key economic and cultural center as the newly formed kingdom began to modernize and expand.
The discovery of oil in Saudi Arabia in the 1930s brought unprecedented wealth and rapid development to Jeddah. The city underwent significant modernization, becoming a major commercial hub with modern infrastructure, skyscrapers, and international businesses.
Al-Balad, the historic part of Jeddah, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is renowned for its traditional coral stone buildings, narrow alleyways, and vibrant souks. Al-Balad offers a glimpse into the city's rich cultural and architectural heritage.
Due to its status as a gateway for pilgrims and traders, Jeddah has always been a melting pot of cultures. The city is known for its diverse population, with influences from Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, contributing to its unique cultural fabric.
In recent years, Jeddah has been at the forefront of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 initiative. The Red Sea Project aims to transform the city into a global tourist destination, with new luxury resorts, entertainment complexes, and cultural attractions.