Jeddah

A major Red Sea port city known for its historic old town, vibrant waterfront, and gateway status for Hajj pilgrims. It offers beaches, cultural sites, and serves as a key international gateway.

Things to do

• Al-Balad Old Town — Explore the UNESCO-listed historic district with traditional coral-stone buildings, narrow souks, and heritage architecture dating back centuries.
• Jeddah Corniche — Walk or relax along the scenic Red Sea waterfront promenade lined with parks, cafes, and modern sculptures.
• Floating Mosque — Visit this striking mosque built on pilings over the Red Sea, particularly beautiful during sunset with its reflection in the water.
• Red Sea Mall Shopping — Browse one of the region's largest malls featuring international and local brands, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
• Jeddah Aquarium — Experience marine life native to the Red Sea with interactive exhibits and underwater viewing tunnels.
• Noor Island — Take a boat to this Red Sea island featuring art installations, beaches, and cultural events in a scenic offshore setting.

Food to try

• Kabsa — The national dish of fragrant rice cooked with spiced meat (lamb, chicken, or seafood) and served with yogurt sauce and vegetable garnish.
• Sambousas — Crispy fried pastries filled with spiced meat, cheese, or vegetables, commonly eaten as an appetizer or snack throughout the city.
• Grilled Hammour — Fresh Red Sea grouper fish grilled whole or filleted and served with rice, hummus, and fresh lemon, showcasing local seafood tradition.
• Shawarma — Meat (typically lamb or chicken) slow-roasted on a vertical spit and wrapped in flatbread with tahini, garlic, and vegetables from street vendors.
• Umm Ali — A warm dessert made with puff pastry, coconut, raisins, and sweetened milk, traditionally served as comfort food after meals.
• Fresh Seafood at Red Sea Restaurants — Waterfront dining experiences featuring daily catches of local fish, shrimp, and squid prepared simply with Middle Eastern spices and olive oil.

Local customs & good to know

• Dress Code Respect — Women should wear abayas or modest, loose-fitting clothing covering shoulders and knees; men should avoid shorts in public areas and places of worship.
• Ramadan Sensitivity — During the Islamic holy month, eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours is disrespectful; many restaurants close during day and open after sunset (iftar).
• Haggling in Souks — Bargaining is expected and appreciated in traditional markets like Al-Balad; viewing it as a social custom rather than aggressive negotiation builds better merchant relationships.
• Hajj Pilgrimage Awareness — During the Hajj season (Islamic calendar-based), the city experiences massive crowds, congested transport, and higher prices; plan visits around this period or expect delays.