Jeddah - Discovering Saudi Arabia

What to see, events, costs and every info for the perfect holiday
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Travelling to Jeddah

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Jeddah, a pretty good destination in Saudi Arabia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Jeddah and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Jeddah, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Saudi Arabia, here's everything to know about Jeddah for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Jeddah

Jeddah is a city located on the coast of the Red Sea in western Saudi Arabia. It is the commercial capital of the country and the largest port on the Red Sea. The city is known for its impressive architecture, rich history, diverse culture, and warm hospitality. Jeddah also offers a variety of recreational activities, including water sports, shopping, and visiting historical landmarks. The city is home to the famous King Abdulaziz International Airport, which makes it a popular transit point for travelers visiting the Middle East.

Travelling
Travelling to Jeddah and around: discovering Saudi Arabia

What to visit in Jeddah

Sure, here are some of the top tourist attractions in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia along with some information about each one: 1. Al-Balad: This historic district in the center of Jeddah is home to many of the city's oldest buildings, including traditional Arabic-style homes and ancient souks (markets).
2. King Fahd's Fountain: Also known as the Jeddah Fountain, this impressive structure shoots water up to 853 feet into the air, making it the tallest fountain in the world.
3. Jeddah Corniche: This scenic seaside promenade stretches for miles along the Red Sea coast and is a popular spot for jogging, walking, and picnicking.
4. Floating Mosque: The Al Rahma Mosque, also known as the Floating Mosque, is built on a pier and appears to be floating on the Red Sea. It's a beautiful place to visit and take photos.
5. Fakieh Aquarium: This aquarium is home to a wide variety of marine life, including sharks, stingrays, and sea turtles. Visitors can even snorkel with the fish in the aquarium's main tank.
6. Red Sea Mall: One of Jeddah's largest shopping malls, the Red Sea Mall features a wide range of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options, including a cinema and a bowling alley.
7. Atallah Happy Land Park: Designed for families with young children, this amusement park features a range of rides and attractions, including a Ferris wheel, bumper cars, and a small roller coaster.
8. Jeddah Tower: Currently under construction and set to become the tallest building in the world, the Jeddah Tower will soar to a height of over 3,300 feet when completed.
These are just a few of the many tourist attractions that Jeddah has to offer. Visitors to the city can also explore its many museums, art galleries, and parks, or take a day trip to nearby destinations like the ancient city of Mada'in Saleh or the scenic Taif Mountains.

You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Jeddah.

When to go on holiday to Jeddah

The best time to visit Jeddah is from November to February when the temperatures are more moderate, ranging from the low 20s°C to low 30s°C. During this time, it is also the dry season, so you can expect plenty of sunshine and minimal rainfall. However, it is also the busiest time of the year, so you can expect higher prices and crowds. From March to May, the temperatures start to rise, but it is still a good time to visit if you do not mind the heat. From June to October, it is the hottest and most humid time of the year with temperatures reaching over 40°C. It is still possible to visit during this time, but it is important to take precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Jeddah

There are several ways to get to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia: 1. By air - Jeddah is served by the King Abdulaziz International Airport which is a major airport in the country. Many airlines offer direct flights to Jeddah from different parts of the world.
2. By land - If you are coming from neighboring countries like Jordan, Egypt, or Yemen, you can enter Saudi Arabia via land borders. However, it's important to note that crossing the border can be a lengthy and challenging process, so it's best to do some research and plan ahead.
3. By sea - You can also reach Jeddah by sea via the Red Sea port. There are several cruise ships and ferries that dock at the port, but they may not be as frequent as air travel.
Regardless of the mode of transportation you choose to get to Jeddah, make sure to check the visa requirements and other travel regulations before making any bookings.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Jeddah, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Jeddah

Sure, here are some typical foods of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia: 1. Kabsa: A popular rice dish made with chicken, lamb or beef, served with a tomato-based sauce and vegetables.
2. Shawarma: A Middle Eastern sandwich made of marinated meat (usually beef or chicken) cooked on a spit, served in a pita bread with vegetables and tahini sauce.
3. Mutabbaq: A savory pastry filled with spiced meat, vegetables, or cheese.
4. Albaik: A famous fast food chain in Jeddah known for its crispy fried chicken and French fries.
5. Haneeth: A slow-cooked lamb or beef dish, seasoned with spices, and served with rice.
6. Thareed: A layered dish made with bread, vegetables, and chicken or lamb in a tomato-based sauce.
7. Quzi: A dish made of slow-roasted lamb or sheep, served over rice with nuts, raisins, and spices.
8. Saleeg: A creamy rice dish cooked with milk, chicken, or meat, and flavored with cardamom or cinnamon.
9. Madfoon: A dish of seasoned meat (usually lamb or chicken) wrapped in banana leaves and baked underground.
10. Luqaimat: Small fried dough balls soaked in sweet syrup, a popular dessert in Jeddah.
You can find general info about typical foods in Saudi Arabia here.

Is Jeddah an expensive destination for tourists?

Jeddah can be considered a relatively expensive destination for tourists compared to other cities in Saudi Arabia. However, the cost of visiting Jeddah largely depends on your tourism activities, accommodation choices, and dining preferences. Some expenses you may encounter in Jeddah include accommodation costs, transportation expenses, entrance fees to attractions, and dining costs. Overall, Jeddah has a range of affordable to luxurious experiences, so it is still possible to have a budget-friendly trip.

Where to find accomodation in Jeddah

There are several areas in Jeddah where you can find accommodation depending on your preferences and the purpose of your visit. Some of the popular areas for visitors include: 1. Al Hamra: This is a commercial district and a popular area for shopping with many malls and shopping centers. It is a good place to stay if you want easy access to shopping and dining options.
2. Al Balad: This area is famous for its historic architecture and traditional markets. It is a good place to stay if you want to experience the old town of Jeddah.
3. Corniche: This is a coastal area with a long promenade and many parks. It is a good place to stay if you want easy access to the beach and scenic views.
4. Al Nahda: This is a residential area with many parks and green spaces. It is a good place to stay if you want a quiet and peaceful environment.
5. Al Andalus: This area is known for its modern high-rise buildings and luxury hotels. It is a good place to stay if you prefer upscale accommodations and modern amenities.
You can check hotel prices at Jeddah here:
Booking.com


Is Jeddah a safe destination for tourists?

Jeddah is considered to be a safe place for tourists. The crime rate in Saudi Arabia is relatively low, and the government takes security seriously to maintain the safety of the kingdom's residents and visitors. However, it is always important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially when traveling to unfamiliar places. It is recommended to follow local laws and customs, and to take necessary precautions such as avoiding displaying expensive items in public, staying away from large crowded gatherings, and being careful when using public transportation.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Saudi Arabia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Jeddah.

What type of travelers will enjoy Jeddah the most?

Jeddah, Saudi Arabia is a city that can cater to a wide range of travelers, depending on their interests.
Couples: Jeddah has a beautiful corniche, which is a perfect spot for an evening stroll along the Red Sea, while enjoying the stunning views. The city also has a range of restaurants and cafes with great ambience, in addition to luxurious hotels that can offer a romantic getaway.
Young people looking for fun: Jeddah has a variety of entertainment options to offer, including theme parks such as Al Shallal, water parks like Fakieh Aquarium, and the Red Sea Mall, which features cinemas, an ice rink, and an indoor theme park.
Families: Jeddah has plenty of activities that can be enjoyed by families, such as visiting the Jeddah Corniche or the Jeddah Waterfront. There are numerous parks and gardens where families can enjoy a picnic or a day out, such as the Al Andalus Park or the King Fahd Coastal City Park. Additionally, there are several museums, including the Jeddah Science and Technology Museum, the Jeddah Regional Museum of Archaeology and Ethnography, and the Abdul Raouf Khalil Museum.
It's worth noting that since Jeddah is a conservative city, visitors should be respectful of local customs and follow the dress code, particularly when visiting cultural sites.

How to get around Jeddah

In Jeddah, popular modes of transportation include taxis, buses, and ride-hailing services like Uber and Careem. Taxis are readily available and can be hailed from the street or booked through an app. Buses operated by the Saudi Public Transport Company (SAPTCO) also operate in Jeddah, with fares starting at around 2 SAR per ride. Overall, it is relatively easy to move around Jeddah using public transportation.

What to see around Jeddah

Surely! Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Jeddah: 1. Al-Balad: This is the old town of Jeddah and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It's a charming area with narrow streets, old buildings, and traditional souqs.
2. The Floating Mosque in Jeddah: This beautiful mosque is built on the water and is a popular tourist attraction.
3. Taif: This is a city in the mountains, about 3 hours' drive from Jeddah. It's known for its beautiful gardens and cool weather, which makes it a popular summer retreat.
4. Al Wahbah Crater: This is a volcanic crater located about 250 km from Jeddah. It's a popular destination for trekking, camping, and stargazing.
5. Farasan Islands: These islands are located about 5 hours' drive from Jeddah and are known for their coral reefs, beaches, and crystal-clear waters.
6. Edge of the World: This is a natural rock formation located about 1.5 hours' drive from Jeddah. It's famous for its stunning views of the desert landscape and is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking.
7. Al Lith beaches: Al Lith is a city located south of Jeddah on the Red Sea coast. It's famous for its gorgeous beaches, clear waters, and diverse marine life.
For every travel information about Saudi Arabia you can click here.

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