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Welcome to Jeddah

See Saudi Arabia at its most commercial and cosmopolitan. On the shores of the Red Sea, Jeddah is an important trading port and the Kingdom’s second largest city – not to mention a popular destination for pilgrims on their way to Mecca.

Take advantage of the coastline, head east on a desert safari, or simply enjoy the hustle and bustle of this modern metropolis.

Top things to see and do in Jeddah

  • Watch the sun set over the Red Sea while admiring the sculptures that line the seemingly endless Corniche.
  • Barter for Jeddah souvenirs or simply soak up the atmosphere at the biggest market in Saudi Arabia – the Souk al-Alawi.
  • Arrange a scuba diving course and explore life under the sea – whether you fancy daytime or twilight diving, there are courses in Jeddah to suit everyone.
  • Spend a morning at the Al-Balad Fish Market and see the daily catch coming in fresh off the docks.
  • Dine on some kabsa (a traditional rice-based dish) at one of the city’s many excellent restaurants.

Tips for travellers

For a taste of the more tranquil and traditional Saudi Arabia, organise a day trip to Taif or Yanbu – both within a few hours’ drive of Jeddah.

Travel ideas

See all travel ideas

Useful information about Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Current weather
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Average temps
  • -- Jan-Mar
  • - Apr-Jun
  • - Jul-Sep
  • - Oct-Dec
Time & date
  • 11:44 Local time
  • Sat 21 Jun Date
  • GMT+3 Time Zone
More info
  • Saudi riyal Currency
  • Arabic Languages
  • 230 V, 60 Hz, type G plug Power adapter

You can get around Jeddah by taxi, bus or private car hire. Metred taxis are readily available in Jeddah. You can have your hotel arrange a taxi for you. You can also flag a taxi on the street. Travel by bus within Jeddah is not very common as buses generally only serve main streets and central districts. If you decide to hire a car, international car hire agencies are widely available in Jeddah and many have branches at the airport. Generally in Saudi Arabia, the minimum age for car hire ranges between 23 and 25 years However, some companies may allow those below 23 years of age to hire a car.

Our destinations are split into 8 different zones. The cost of checking in baggage per kilo depends on what zone you’re flying to and from.

For more information, please visit our Airport baggage rates page.

Before you fly, please make certain you have the correct visa and documents required to enter the country. Check with the relevant embassy to find out what you need.

Airport information

Upcoming events

News & articles about Jeddah

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