Jeddah travel guide

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

• 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.