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Jeddah, the “Bride of the Red Sea,” is a gateway for pilgrimages to the Islamic holy cities Mecca and Medina. Recently, it has transformed into a vibrant hub of commerce and culture. Its historical district, Al-Balad, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is cluttered with traditional homes made from coral.
The city’s coastline is replete with resorts and stunning water attractions, making Jeddah a unique blend of ancient history and modern luxury.
Before visiting, remember to dress modestly in public areas, respecting the local culture, which includes covering shoulders and knees.
Explore beyond the city center to experience Red Sea snorkeling tours—these reveal spectacular corals and marine life seldom seen elsewhere.
How to best experience Jeddah?
Discover tickets, tours, and activities for Jeddah through these providers:
Jeddah: The Gateway to the Red Sea
| Country | Saudi Arabia |
| Time in Jeddah | GMT+3 |
| Language spoken | Arabic |
| Population | 3.976 million (2021, World Population Review) |
| Currency | Saudi Riyal (SAR ر) |
| Airports | King Abdulaziz International Airport (13 mi / 21 km). |
Jeddah, the second-largest city in Saudi Arabia, serves as a major urban center of western Saudi Arabia. Known for its pivotal role as the continuing gateway for millions of pilgrims heading to Mecca, Jeddah is much more than a transit city. It is a diverse and dynamic hub of culture, commerce, and modernity. The city’s roots can be traced back several millennia, with a rich history steeped in trade, given its strategic location along the major international shipping lanes of the Red Sea.
Historically, Jeddah has been a point of convergence for traders and travelers. The city’s historical area, Al-Balad, with its traditional multistory homes and old bazaars, today stands as a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of its past. In parallel, contemporary Jeddah is rapidly expanding, symbolized by the Jeddah Tower, poised to be the world’s tallest building upon completion. This blend of ancient tradition and ambitious futuristic vision captures the essence of Jeddah.
Economically, Jeddah holds significant influence. It’s home to the Jeddah Islamic Port, the 36th largest seaport in the world and the largest in the Red Sea. Financial institutions and multinational corporations dot the city’s skyline, making it a business hub in the region.
Culturally, Jeddah is famously known as the “Bride of the Red Sea” and celebrates its identity through numerous festivals such as Jeddah Season, Red Sea International Film Festival, and more, attracting visitors from around the globe. The city’s coastline, featuring the iconic King Fahd’s Fountain (the highest of its type in the world), is also a major tourist attraction.
Today, Jeddah is a vivid city mirroring the progressive strides of Saudi Arabia while carefully preserving its historical dignity and cultural essence. This city not only provides a vital link to the sacred city of Mecca but also stands as a beacon of development and cultural renaissance in the Kingdom.
Where is Jeddah?
Jeddah is located on the coast of the Red Sea in western Saudi Arabia.
Distances:
| Route | Distance by car | Time by car |
|---|---|---|
| Riyadh to Jeddah | 615 mi (990 km) | Approx. 10 hr |
| Mecca to Jeddah | 45 mi (72 km) | Approx. 1 hr |
| Medina to Jeddah | 255 mi (410 km) | Approx. 4 hr |
What is Jeddah famous for?
Jeddah is renowned as a major commercial hub and the main gateway for pilgrimages to the Islamic holy cities Mecca and Medina. It is also famous for its historic district, Al-Balad, and modern architectural marvels.
History
Pre-Islamic Period to 7th Century
Long before it became the bustling city of today, Jeddah was a fishing hamlet settled by the Quda’a tribe. Archaeological findings suggest this area had been inhabited as far back as the Stone Age. Over the centuries, as trade routes expanded, Jeddah gained prominence due to its strategic position on the Red Sea.
7th Century to 16th Century
With the advent of Islam, Jeddah’s importance further escalated. It became the gateway for pilgrims heading to Mecca for Hajj. By the 8th century, under Abbasid rule, Jeddah saw infrastructural developments with the construction of walls to protect its thriving populace and rich merchants from pirates and invaders. In 1517, it came under Ottoman rule, marking a new era of reinforcement and administrative organization.
16th Century to 20th Century
The Ottoman era was a period of fortification. The city walls were rebuilt with six watchtowers and six gates, all of which played a significant role in the city’s defense mechanism. The 19th century brought more prosperity to Jeddah as steamships increased the number of pilgrims and traders. However, the city faced challenges like epidemic diseases and pirate attacks during this period.
20th Century to Present
The discovery of oil in Saudi Arabia in the 20th century transformed Jeddah. It rapidly developed from a relatively small city into a vital urban center, modernizing with large-scale urban and industrial projects. Today, Jeddah is known for its commercial enterprises, cultural significance, and as a continuing gateway for pilgrims heading to Mecca.
Visit Jeddah
What to see and do in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Jeddah, the “Gateway to Mecca,” offers visitors a rich tapestry of historical and modern attractions. Explore the historic district of Al-Balad, with its traditional coral-stone buildings and bustling souqs such as Souq Al-Alawi.
Visit the iconic King Fahd Fountain, the tallest of its kind in the world. Don’t miss the Jeddah Corniche for a relaxing stroll along the Red Sea, dotted with artworks and beautiful beach views. For families, the Fakieh Aquarium offers insight into the marine life of the Red Sea.
- Historic Al-Balad District
- King Fahd Fountain
- Jeddah Corniche
- Fakieh Aquarium
Cultural and Seasonal Events in Jeddah
Jeddah is host to numerous events throughout the year, reflecting its rich cultural tapestry. Noteworthy is the Jeddah Season, a festival that showcases entertainment, sports, and art events during the summer months.
The Red Sea International Film Festival, which celebrates international and local filmmaking, is another significant event held annually.
Best time to visit Jeddah
The best time to visit Jeddah is during the cooler months from November to March, when the weather is pleasant and conducive for exploring the outdoor attractions and historical sites. It’s also an ideal time for attending various cultural festivals.
Is Jeddah worth visiting?
Jeddah is unquestionably worth visiting. As the major urban center in western Saudi Arabia, it offers a unique blend of ancient history and modern lifestyle. From historical sites in Al-Balad to stunning waterfront areas along the Corniche, Jeddah appeals to history buffs, culture enthusiasts, and leisure seekers alike.
The city’s strategic location also makes it a conventional hub for pilgrims and tourists traveling to and from Mecca, adding to its cosmopolitan vibe.