Jeddah - explore this lively gateway to the Red Sea
- Marion Mueller
- Sep 4
- 8 min read
Jeddah is Different - Jeddah Ghair
After we have explored the desert city of Riyadh in my previous Blog post and got some basic information how to move around in the Kingdom, we take a plane now to the buzzling coastal town of Jeddah.
Intro
When you see the massive aquarium in the arrival hall of Jeddah´s King Abdulaziz International airport you will feel that you are somewhere by the sea observing the many species in that huge water tank.
Once you step out from the airport you will already recognize that Jeddah has a completely different vibe and atmosphere than Riyadh. Jeddah has been since long a bit more open and vivid than the rest of the country. This is due to its proximity to the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah and the huge stream of pilgrims from all over the world that are channelled through Jeddah. Some of the pilgrims never left and brought their own cultures with them into the city. Therefore, you will find yourself in a real melting pot.
The cultural tapestry of Jeddah is as vibrant as its shoreline. The city pulses with the energy of countless nationalities; its population is a harmonious blend of locals and expatriates from across the globe, reflected in the diversity of its cuisine, languages and customs. From savouring mouthwatering seafood and aromatic Arabic coffee to experiencing lively festivals and exhibitions, Jeddah welcomes guests with warmth and openness.
As a vital gateway for pilgrims and travellers alike, Jeddah’s atmosphere is uniquely open and progressive, blending tradition and modernity. Whether you’re strolling past colourful fishing boats in the harbour, exploring contemporary galleries or exchanging stories in a bustling café, the city’s spirited mix of people and cultures is ever-present—making Jeddah a true mosaic on the coast of Saudi Arabia.
Where to stay
As in any other big city also in Jeddah you have a huge mix of national and international hotels from all categories.
We stayed at the centrally located Rotana Al Hamra Hotel. It was a very busy hotel with a not so good service. The room and facilities were ok, but already quite old with traces of damage and dirt. I would therefore recommend looking out for newer properties like for example the Hyatt House (www.hyatt.com) or some of the international hotel brands along the Corniche Road.
What to do
Jeddah is a quite stretched out city. You can´t identify one real centre – there are rather various different neighbourhoods with their very own central places. Other than in Riyadh the metro in Jeddah is still under construction. There is a bus system, however that can be really confusing for foreigners – therefore you will need to go around by taxi as the various interesting sites are far away from each other or you hire your own driver/guide. Driving around can feel a bit like in a maze – I felt several times that we are just going around in circles – which was however in reality not the case.
We anyway had our very own super nice Saudi driver, Hassan, ......
......and our amazing guide Mustafa – who showed us a real insight into the city.
On a side note: different than for example in the UAE you will find many locals working in tourism related jobs in Saudi Arabia for example as drivers like our Hassan or at the hotel reception. Especially the tourism and hospitality sector brings huge possibilities for the young generation of the country. Their English and tourism skills might still need some development and it is a process that you can observe here, but I really loved that you have locals around who are often up to a chat and some cultural interchange. You have the feeling that you are welcomed and the young Saudis are proud to show their country and culture to you.
Tayebat Museum
We started our exploration tour of the city with a real curiosity – I have never seen a museum like that in all my life 😊the outside structure is already more than impressive and is a mix of a traditional house and palace.
When you step inside you are purely overwhelmed by the wild collection that is presented to visitors over three floors and in many rooms. There is literally nothing that you can not find here and some objects are more than curious – also the way how everything is displayed you will have never seen before in a museum. However, if you feel lost you will find one of the very friendly museum staff by your side to give you a proper explanation and guidance through this unique private collection. This fascinating museum offers visitors a glimpse into Saudi Arabia’s rich heritage, housing collections that span traditional clothing, intricate jewellery, and historical artefacts. Carefully curated displays tell the story of local customs, crafts, and daily life, revealing the threads that connect past generations to the present.
Don´t miss this cabinet of unique objects!
Old Town – Al Balad
Another must-see in Jeddah is the picturesque Old Town – Al Balad, a UNESCO World Heritage – I highly recommend a visit in the late afternoon / early evening hours where this neighbourhood comes to life and temperatures are more pleasant to walk around – because this district has to be explored on foot. Wander around in the narrow alleys and pass by ancient old houses with their distinctive wooden windows and balconies. This part of the city was long forgotten and many houses fell victim to total neglection. However with the new tourism initiative this district came to life again and many of the abandoned houses were restored or are currently in the process of getting a new façade.
I really loved to walk around here to explore the many small local shops, coffee houses and eateries. The old architecture of these houses is stunning and very picturesque. Wander around the labyrinthine alleys, coral-stone buildings, traditional souks and the majestic Naseef House—a testament to the city’s storied past.
Old Town by night…..
If you feel hungry, I recommend to step by the small fish restaurant Al Basali – it is small, but the food is amazing. You order your fish from the counter together with your sides and everything is freshly prepared for you. Due to the limited spaces, it is likely that you will have to wait to get a table – but it is worth!
Despite its small size and its hidden location inside the souk area of the Old Town this small food hub is quite famous as you can see in the many photographs on the wall – even international football players, singers and actors have passed by here.
After your meal explore the souk area around the restaurant – you can immerse yourself in a real oriental souk with grocery stores, butcher shops, bakeries and everything else that is needed for the daily life.
On the opposite side of the Old Town, you can find the city’s most famous gold market – some of the many gold and jewellery shops have the stunning local wedding jewelleries on display…… Hmmmm, doesn’t come cheap for sure 😊a lot of the jewellery is yellow gold as that is the preferred type of the region.
Corniche Road
Jeddah’s iconic Corniche stretches along the waterfront, offering sweeping views, bustling promenades, and art installations such as the impressive Jeddah Sculpture Museum, which showcases works by renowned international artists.
Further along that road you have many international hotel chains as well. While the Corniche is perfect for a relaxed walk or a family picnic – there is no real beach around for swimming. Anyway, swimming and beaching in our western way is still only happening within hotels, resorts and beach clubs here in Saudi Arabia.
The Corniche is divided in a South and North Corniche – in both parts you can find restaurants, coffee shops and various entertainment facilities as shopping malls, playgrounds, an aquarium and so on.
The Corniche also hosts the yearly F1 race that is happening in Jeddah. www.f1saudi.com
Further you can visit the Jeddah Yacht Harbour from where you can sail out on various boat tours for swimming and snorkelling. The Yacht Harbour is also a nice venue for an afternoon coffee or a dinner by the sea.
If you are up for a longer cruise around the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf check the website of the local cruising company Aroya for more information.
Another picturesque and very iconic site of the Corniche is the Floating Mosque, officially known as Al Rahma Mosque, which rises gracefully above the edge of the Red Sea, appearing to float on the water during high tide. With its elegant white domes and slender minaret, the mosque is one of Jeddah’s most beloved architectural landmarks, harmoniously blending modern design with traditional Islamic elements. Visitors are captivated not only by its serene beauty and stunning views of the sea, but also by the tranquil ambiance that makes it a favourite spot for both prayer and peaceful contemplation. Whether bathed in the soft morning light or illuminated by the golden hues of sunset, the Floating Mosque leaves an unforgettable impression on all who visit the Corniche.
Not exactly at the Corniche anymore rather in its extension we also had a very nice nightly stop at the Al-Ahlam Marina. It is a small harbour where you can also rent boats or book yourself into various dive and snorkelling trips plus other water activities. However, it is also nice to come in the evening as they have a floating restaurant inside the harbour as well. Nice place for a dinner or a drink by the sea (non-alcoholic of course).
King Fahad´s Fountain
King Fahad's Fountain, also known as the Jeddah Fountain, is one of the city’s most striking landmarks and a highlight of the Corniche skyline. The fountain jets water to a staggering height of up to 312 metres, making it the tallest of its kind in the world. Illuminated by hundreds of spotlights after dusk, the fountain’s plume glows against the night sky and can be seen from miles away, painting a dramatic silhouette above the serene waters of the Red Sea.
Unfortunately, we passed that area only during day time when the fountain was not in operation, but I am sure it is a real spectacle at night. Plus, you can mingle with the locals here at night, as the fountain is a popular place for tourists, expats and locals alike.
With this I will close my Blog about Jeddah, however I have covered here only the main tourist sights of Jeddah – apart from that Jeddah has a lot of other museums, art galleries, community spaces, old souks and modern malls plus you can go on an exciting food journey.
Jeddah is also the starting point for trips to the stunning mountain area around Taif and Baha. An area that I would also highly recommend to visit, we unfortunately were too short of time.
Instead, we took the modern high-speed train to Madinah – which we will explore in my next Blog.
Jeddah – explore this lively gateway to the Red Sea and experience its vibrant culture, rich history, and modern charm. From stunning coastlines to bustling souks, it’s truly a city that blends tradition with progress. No wonder it also inspires so many talented writers in Saudi Arabia, capturing the essence of this dynamic destination