What is Jeddah best known for?
Jeddah is the second-largest city in Saudi Arabia and also the country’s commercial centre. Jeddah is the principal gateway to the holiest city in Islam – Mecca (65 km). Medina, the second holiest city in Islam is around 360 km from Jeddah. Jeddah is the second commercial centre in the Middle East and the fourth-largest industrial city in Saudi Arabia.
Jeddah is widely seen as the most liberal city in Saudi Arabia and is a popular tourist destination. Jeddah has much to offer to tourists – from UNESCO listed World Heritage Sites to beaches and historically significant museums. Jeddah welcomes all to its magnificence.
Best known places In Jeddah
- Al Balad: It is an old and vibrant marketplace reminiscent of Arabian nights. Tourists can buy anything from textiles and spices to silver and gold ornaments from here.
- Jeddah Corniche: Situated in Northern Jeddah, this clean and beautiful waterfront has a pleasant walkway and leisure space. It also houses artificial swimming bays, lush green spaces, outdoor gyms and delicious street food places and cafes to fill your grumbling stomach.
- Al Shafee Mosque: It is one of the finest mosques in Jeddah. The Mihrab is almost 1400 years old whereas most of the mosque’s building dates back to the 16th century. Non-Muslim visitors are allowed entrance outside of prayer times.
- Matbouli House Museum: Featuring fantastic wooden lattice balconies and minimal refurbishments, this is a very old and privately owned museum retaining its traditional, authentic décor.
- Souq Al Alawi: Experience the Arabian spirit at its best in this souq especially when the call to prayer fills the streets. If tourists look long enough, they may even find authentic Arabian jewellery, Islamic art and traditional dress-wear.
- Mall of Arabia: Located near the airport, it has more than 350 different brand stores inside.
- Al Rahma Mosque: Located in Northern Jeddah, this mosque sits on stilts and appears to float on the Red Sea from afar. It is a beautiful mosque with stained glass art, a pretty dome and main hall decoration patterns which feature a modern twist on the classic Andalusian style.
- Al Shallal Theme Park: Thrill-seekers will enjoy this theme park. Open nightly from 5 pm to 1 am, it features roller coaster rides, high flying carousel swings, arcade games, bowling and even ice skating.
Airport in Jeddah
Jeddah airport has the Hajj Terminal that was constructed especially for Muslims making their pilgrimage to Mecca and can handle over 80,000 passengers.
- Airport address: King Abdulaziz International Airport, Al Madinah Al Munawwarah Road.
- IATA code: JED