Places / Asia / Saudi Arabia
Jeddah
Visited in 2022 and 2023
At a glance
- Country
- Saudi Arabia
- Region
- Jeddah Governorate
- Population
- 4.7 million
- Best time to go
- November to March
- Main airport
- Jeddah King Abdulaziz International (JED)
- Coordinates
- 21.67°N, 39.17°E
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Overview
Jeddah has long been the gateway to Mecca for pilgrims arriving by sea and air, which has made it Saudi Arabia's most cosmopolitan city. Its old town is built of coral stone, with carved wooden balconies shading the alleys.
Along the coast, a long Corniche faces the Red Sea, with seafront mosques, sculptures and families picnicking in the evening breeze. The reefs offshore offer excellent diving.
Things to see
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Photo: Francisco Anzola, CC BY 2.0 Al-Balad
The UNESCO-listed historic district of tall coral-stone houses, wooden rawasheen balconies and old souqs.
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Photo: Richard Mortel from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, CC BY 2.0 Nasseef House
A grand merchant's house in Al-Balad, now a cultural centre with fine latticed windows and carved doors.
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Photo: Ferdinand Reus from Arnhem, Holland, CC BY-SA 2.0 King Fahd's Fountain
One of the tallest fountains in the world, its jet of water best seen lit up at night.
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Photo: Tahir mq, CC BY-SA 4.0 Jeddah Corniche
A long seafront promenade with parks, beaches, public art and fishing piers.
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Photo: Tahir mq, CC BY-SA 4.0 Al-Rahmah Mosque
The so-called floating mosque, built on pillars over the sea at the northern end of the Corniche.
Things to do
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Photo: Astronaut photograph ISS010-E-20261 was acquired March 19, 2, Public domain Dive or snorkel the Red Sea
Coral reefs and wrecks lie just off the northern coast, with dive centres in the Obhur area.
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Photo: Abdullah Muashi from Jeddah, KSA, CC BY 2.0 Evening in Al-Balad
Wander the old town after dark, when cafés open and the souqs fill with shoppers, especially during Ramadan.
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Seafood by the coast
Choose your fish at a market-style restaurant and have it grilled or fried with Hijazi spices.
Where to stay
Al-Balad
Boutique hotels close to the historic district, for atmosphere.
Hotels in Al-BaladCorniche and Al Hamra
Seafront hotels near the fountain and the promenade.
Hotels in Corniche and Al HamraObhur
North of the city, with beach resorts and diving.
Hotels in Obhur
Getting around
Taxis and ride-hailing apps are the easiest way to get around. Dress modestly in public places.
The airport is north of the city, about 30 to 45 minutes from the centre by taxi. The Haramain high-speed train links Jeddah with Mecca and Medina.
When to go
November to March is warm and pleasant, though still humid. Summers are hot and very humid. During Ramadan, evenings in Al-Balad are especially atmospheric.
Plan your trip to Jeddah
- HotelsBooking.com
- Tours and ticketsGetYourGuide
- FlightsKiwi.com
- Attraction ticketsTiqets
- Airport parking, lounges and transfersHoliday Extras
- Car hireAuto Europe
- Mobile data (eSIM)AiraloCode DAN9406 for money off
- GuidebooksAmazon
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Guide last checked October 2026. Opening times and prices change, so check before you go.