Al Shatea: The Coastal Jewel of Jeddah

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaba]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wada'an]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [la]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [aathirana]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayf halak?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bikhair. wa ant?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatahadath al'iinjliizia?]
• I don't understandأنا لا أفهم
  [ana la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأود أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [awad 'an 'ara alqa'imah, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [ana la aakul allahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtik!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأريد أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [urid 'an 'udfi', min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [alnajdah!]
• Go away!انصرف!
  [ansarif!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [atassal bilshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [atassal bitabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت الطريق
  [laqad dillat altariq]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أريد شراء...
  [urid shira...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتفرج
  [ana faqat atafarraj]
• How much is it?كم سعرها؟
  [kam si'raha?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك تخفيض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk takhfid alsi'ra?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam alssa'ah?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [alssa'ah alwahidah]
• Half past (10)نصف العاشرة
  [nisf al'ashirah]
• Morningصباح
  [sabah]
• Afternoonبعد الظهر
  [ba'd alduhur]
• Eveningمساء
  [masa']
• Yesterdayأمس
  [ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [alyawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnaan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thulatha]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'ah]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsah]
• 6ستة
  [sittah]
• 7سبعة
  [sab'ah]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamania]
• 9تسعة
  [tis'ah]
• 10عشرة
  [asharah]

• Where's a/the...?أين ال...؟
  [ayn al...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma huwa al'anaan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuk 'an tureenii (ala alkhariitah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى يأتي الحافلة التالية؟
  [mata ya'tii alhafilat altaliat?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ...)
  [tazkirah (ila ...)]

Al Shatea, meaning 'the beach' in Arabic, has its roots deeply connected to the coastal trade that characterized Jeddah's early history. Established as a residential area in the late 20th century, it quickly became a sought-after location due to its proximity to the Red Sea, offering both a picturesque environment and a strategic position for trade.

During the 1980s and 1990s, Al Shatea experienced rapid urbanization as Jeddah transformed into a major economic hub in Saudi Arabia. The neighborhood saw the development of modern infrastructure, including shopping malls, restaurants, and recreational facilities, catering to the growing population of expatriates and locals alike.

Al Shatea is known for its diverse community, reflecting the multicultural fabric of Jeddah. The neighborhood hosts various cultural events and festivals that celebrate the rich heritage of its inhabitants, including artistic performances, culinary fairs, and traditional markets, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

In line with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 initiative, Al Shatea has seen significant investment aimed at enhancing tourism and cultural experiences. Development projects include waterfront enhancements and the promotion of local heritage, making the area a focal point for both leisure and cultural activities in Jeddah.

The architectural landscape of Al Shatea is a blend of modern designs and traditional elements, showcasing the evolution of Jeddah's urban planning. Notable buildings and developments reflect the city's commitment to preserving its historical identity while accommodating modern needs, making Al Shatea a unique representation of Jeddah's architectural journey.

Al Shatea is conveniently located along the Corniche in Jeddah. The area is easily accessible from various neighborhoods in Jeddah. If you are coming from downtown Jeddah, you can take a taxi or ride-sharing service, which will take about 15-20 minutes depending on traffic. For those coming from King Abdulaziz International Airport, a taxi ride will take approximately 30-40 minutes. Public buses also operate in Jeddah, and you can catch a bus heading towards the Corniche area.

Al Shatea is well connected and can be explored on foot, especially along the waterfront where many attractions are located. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available for longer distances. While there is no metro system in Jeddah, buses do operate, but they may not cover all areas of Al Shatea directly. Bicycles are also a popular way to explore the Corniche, with dedicated paths available.

Al Shatea is considered a safe neighborhood for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone late at night in less populated areas. While violent crime is low, petty theft can occur, especially in crowded areas. Be particularly cautious in markets or busy shopping areas. It is advisable to keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings.

In case of an emergency, dial 999 for police assistance or 997 for an ambulance. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Hospitals and clinics are available in Jeddah, with some situated near Al Shatea. For minor health issues, pharmacies are accessible and offer over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly. Women should wear long skirts or loose-fitting trousers and cover their arms; men should avoid shorts in public spaces. Religion: Do respect local customs. Avoid public displays of affection. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat for the elderly. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a polite 'As-salamu alaykum'. Avoid overly familiar gestures. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine and accept food invitations. Don't drink alcohol or eat in public during Ramadan.

To experience Al Shatea like a local, visit the beachfront parks where families gather, particularly in the evenings. Try to explore local cafes and eateries that serve traditional Saudi dishes. Engage with local vendors at the waterfront market, and don't hesitate to ask for recommendations on what to try. For a unique experience, take an evening stroll along the Corniche, which is beautifully lit and offers stunning views of the Red Sea.