Jizan: The Hidden Gem of Saudi Arabia's Red Sea Coast

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaban]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wadaean]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [la]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك/على الرحب والسعة
  [min fadlik/ala alrahb wasiata]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [azraan]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayf halik?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bikhyr. want?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatahadath al'inglizia?]
• I don't understandلا أفهم
  [la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأود أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [awad an ara alqaima, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحوم
  [ana la akl allahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtak!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأود أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [awad an adfae, min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [alnajda!]
• Go away!اذهب بعيدا!
  [adhhab baedan!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [atassil bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [atassil bithibb!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت الطريق
  [laqad dalalt altariq]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أود أن أشتري...
  [awad an ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتطلع
  [ana faqat atalaa]
• How much is it?كم سعره؟
  [kam sarih?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hadha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk kafdh alsarih?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam alsaaea?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [alsaaea alwahida]
• Half past (10)النصف بعد العاشرة
  [alnusf baed alaashira]
• Morningالصباح
  [assabah]
• Afternoonالظهر
  [aldhuhur]
• Eveningالمساء
  [almasa]
• Yesterdayأمس
  [ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [alyawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [arbaaa]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsa]
• 6ستة
  [sitta]
• 7سبعة
  [sabaa]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamania]
• 9تسعة
  [tasiaa]
• 10عشرة
  [ashara]

• Where's a/the...?أين ...؟
  [ayn ...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma hu al'ainan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuk an tarini (ala alkharita)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى الحافلة القادمة؟
  [mata alhafilat alqadima?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ...)
  [tazkirat (ila ...)]

Jizan, historically known as Al-Mikhlaf Al-Sulaymani, has been a vital hub since ancient times. It was part of the ancient Arabian trade routes, connecting Yemen and the southern Arabian Peninsula with the Mediterranean world. The city served as a key port for trade in spices, incense, and other valuable goods.

In the early 16th century, Jizan fell under the control of the Ottoman Empire. The Ottomans recognized the strategic importance of the city and fortified it to protect their interest in the Red Sea trade routes. Jizan’s architecture and infrastructure saw significant influence from Ottoman design during this period.

In the early 20th century, Jizan became a focal point during the Asir campaign led by King Abdulaziz Al Saud. The campaign was part of his efforts to unify the various regions of the Arabian Peninsula under the Saudi state. By 1930, Jizan was integrated into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, marking a new chapter in its history.

During World War II, the strategic location of Jizan on the Red Sea made it a significant point of interest. The city was affected by the Allied blockade of the Red Sea, aimed at curbing the supply lines of Axis powers. This period brought about economic challenges as maritime trade was disrupted.

In recent decades, Jizan has seen substantial development, particularly with the establishment of the Jazan Economic City. This initiative aims to diversify the region's economy through investments in industries such as energy, manufacturing, and agriculture. The city has also become a focal point for tourism, with its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty attracting visitors from around the world.

Jizan is renowned for its vibrant cultural festivals, which showcase the region's unique heritage. The Farasan Islands Festival is a notable event that highlights the local traditions, music, dance, and cuisine. These festivals are a testament to the enduring cultural pride of the people of Jizan.

Jizan is located in the southwestern region of Saudi Arabia. The nearest airport is Jizan Regional Airport (also known as King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz Airport), which offers both domestic and limited international flights. For international travelers, the most common route is to fly into King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, and then take a domestic flight to Jizan. Alternatively, Jizan can be reached by long-distance buses from major cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Abha.

Jizan has a variety of transportation options. Taxis are widely available and can be hailed from streets or booked via mobile apps. Car rentals are also available at the airport and in the city. Public buses operate within the city and connect to nearby towns. For a more local experience, you can use shared taxis, known as 'service taxis,' which follow specific routes and are relatively inexpensive.

The official currency in Saudi Arabia is the Saudi Riyal (SAR). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments, markets, and rural areas. ATMs are plentiful in Jizan, but it's wise to inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid any issues with international transactions.

Jizan is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While Jizan doesn't have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 997 for medical emergencies, 998 for fire, and 999 for police assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Jizan. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies throughout the city where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in public places. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Women should cover their shoulders and knees. Religion: Do respect local customs and Islamic traditions. Avoid public displays of affection and always dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake if you are of the same gender. A slight bow of the head is also a sign of respect. Avoid handshakes between men and women unless the woman extends her hand first. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Jizan like a local, visit the traditional souks where you can buy fresh produce, spices, and local crafts. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the region's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the Farasan Islands, which are a short boat ride away and offer stunning beaches and coral reefs. For a unique experience, try traditional Saudi dishes like Kabsa and Mandi at local restaurants.