Jeddah, a Saudi Arabian port city on the Red Sea, is a fantastic destination, celebrated for its unique blend of ancient heritage, modern amenities, and vibrant culture. There is plenty to see and do in Jeddah, including exploring its rich history, especially in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Al-Balad district and at museums like Nassif House. The city also serves as a gateway to the Red Sea, featuring beautiful beaches and various water activities such as diving and snorkelling. In addition to its historical and natural attractions, Jeddah boasts a lively entertainment scene, world-class cuisine, and modern shopping experiences. Here is a guide on where to go, stay, and eat in Jeddah.
Al-Balad, the historic district of Jeddah, offers a captivating journey through time, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can explore the Nassif House Museum, a grand mansion built from coral stone that was once home to the Al-Nasseef family, one of Jeddah's prominent merchant families. Wander through the narrow, winding streets and admire the unique architectural styles of historic buildings such as Al Baeshen House, Al Jamjoom House, and Al Zahed Houses, some of which stand over 30 m tall. Don't miss a visit to Jeddah's oldest mosque, the Al Shafi'i Mosque, or the impressive Al Rahma Mosque. Additionally, you can discover bustling markets that offer a variety of handcrafted gifts and souvenirs, including gold jewellery, spices, and textiles.
The Red Sea Corniche, also known as the Jeddah Waterfront, is a 30 km coastal resort area located along the Red Sea in Saudi Arabia. This beautiful destination features a scenic coastal road, recreational areas, pavilions, and iconic landmarks such as King Fahd's Fountain and the Al-Rahmah Mosque. Visitors to the Red Sea Corniche can explore a variety of attractions, including King Fahd Fountain, Al Shallal Theme Park, and the Floating Mosque (Al Rahma Mosque).
There are shopping opportunities at the Red Sea Mall, along with options for relaxation at nearby beaches like Al Saif Beach, where swimming and sunbathing are popular activities. For those looking to stay active, the waterfront offers a pleasant promenade ideal for leisurely walks or bike rides. You can also check out the Joy Track, a 4.5 km long sports track, or rent a bike to enjoy the scenic views along the coast. Additionally, art enthusiasts can visit the ATHR Gallery to discover contemporary works by local and international artists.
The Al Tayebat City Museum showcases artifacts from the pre-Islamic era, from rare manuscripts to exquisite jewels. One entire floor is dedicated to Saudi Arabia’s Bedouin culture and history, featuring miniature replicas of Makkah and Medina, as well as wedding dresses from various tribes throughout the region. The museum truly serves as a microcosm of the Arab world. Be sure to take a moment to visit the beautiful mosque located within the museum grounds, where you can find a peaceful sanctuary for reflection.
Jeddah houses the world's first mosque constructed using 3D printing technology. Located in the Al-Jawhara suburb, this architectural marvel bears the name of the late Abdulaziz Abdullah Sharbatly, a tribute from his wife, Saudi businesswoman Wajnat Abdulwahed. The Abdulaziz Abdullah Sharbatly Mosque is the brainchild of the National Housing Co. Spearheading the project, Abdulwahed, CEO of Fursan Real Estate, utilised state-of-the-art 3D printers from Guanli, a leading Chinese manufacturer in the field.
Jeddah offers a variety of lodging options for different tastes and budgets. For those seeking a luxury hotel to stay in Jeddah, the Intercontinental Jeddah by IHG is known for its elegant ambiance and modern design. The Ritz-Carlton Jeddah provides a blend of comfort, sophistication, and impeccable service. Shangri-La Jeddah features upscale facilities and a prime location.
For a combination of comfort and accessibility, consider the mid-range Crowne Plaza Jeddah, which offers a comfortable stay with a variety of amenities. The Holiday Inn Jeddah Gateway by IHG delivers a modern and stylish experience, while the Jeddah Marriott Hotel on Madinah Road is well-regarded for its excellent facilities and central location.
Other notable options include Assila, a Luxury Collection Hotel & Apartments, which is highly rated for its luxurious accommodations. The Best Western Plus Jeddah Hotel on Madinah Road is a popular choice known for its comfortable rooms and convenient location. Additionally, the Hotel Galleria Jeddah, part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, is a modern and stylish hotel focusing on comfort and convenience.
Jeddah boasts a diverse culinary scene, offering a variety of places to sample both regional and top international cuisines. If you're in the mood for Indian food, head to Rasoi by Vineet for Michelin-starred dishes, or visit 5 Rivers for authentic Indian flavours with a sea view. For contemporary fusion dining, Social Kitchen is a great choice.
For Italian cuisine, check out San Carlo Cicchetti for delicious cicchetti. Pampas specialises in high-quality Latin American cuisine, focusing on exceptional meats and providing outstanding service.
If you're craving Lebanese food, Agave Restaurant is the place to go. For Japanese cuisine, the renowned Nobu offers world-class dishes. Additionally, Al-Balad, the historic part of town, is famous for its street food, including the Al-Balad Souq.
Getting There: Regular flights connect major Indian cities like Mumbai and New Delhi to Jeddah. Saudi Arabia has simplified its visa process for Indians, offering multiple visa options.
Visa: Obtaining an e-visa or Visa-on-Arrival is now a seamless process. Travellers can simply submit the necessary documents and undergo biometric enrolment on the official platform.
Eligibility: Clients must possess a valid tourist or business visa from the US, UK, or any Schengen country, along with stamped proof of entry from the issuing country.