Nestled along the Red Sea coastline, Jeddah is a laid-back city where old meets new in a vibrant blend of culture, history and modernity.
Positioned between the holy cities of Mecca and Medina, Jeddah has long served as a crossroads for traders and pilgrims from around the world, making it a true melting pot of influences. This diversity is reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and relaxed way of life, giving the city a unique charm that captivates visitors.
With its deep connection to the sea and its centuries-old traditions, Jeddah offers travellers an experience that is both authentically Arabian and refreshingly cosmopolitan. Its central location makes it an ideal gateway to the country’s main attractions, from the Asir Mountains to the south to AlUla in the north, with the holy cities just a short distance away.
Reflecting on Jeddah’s unique charm, Zayar Min, EXO Saudi Arabia Product Manager, explains, ‘What I love most is the simple joy of an afternoon picnic by the Corniche, watching the King Fahd Fountain rise above the horizon, surrounded by the laughter of local families, and then strolling through the timeless alleys of Al-Balad in the evening’.
Key sites in Jeddah:
- Al-Balad (Old Town) A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Al-Balad is the historic heart of Jeddah, where ancient structures and traditional markets still thrive. Wander through narrow streets lined with coral-stone buildings, visit traditional souks and explore the historic houses, such as Naseef House, to get a glimpse of the city’s rich past.
- The Jeddah Corniche Stretching along the Red Sea, the Jeddah Corniche is the city’s lively waterfront, perfect for a leisurely walk or picnic. Lined with public art installations, cafés, and the striking Red Sea Mosque, the Corniche offers panoramic views of the sea and a chance to unwind in the coastal breeze.
- King Fahd’s Fountain An iconic symbol of Jeddah, the fountain holds the title of the world’s tallest fountain, shooting water up to heights of 312 metres. Located on the Corniche, this landmark is especially breathtaking in the evening when it is illuminated.
More key sites in Jeddah:
- Red Sea The Red Sea’s crystal-clear waters are teeming with vibrant marine life. perfect for unforgettable snorkelling trips. A boat trip on the Sea, complete with a freshly caught seafood lunch, is a memorable part of any visit to Jeddah.
- Al Tayebat Museum Housed in a traditional Hijazi-style building, the museum is home to more than 18,000 artefacts- a must visit for anyone keen to explore Jeddah’s heritage and Arabian history.
- teamLab Borderless Jeddah This innovative digital art museum has interactive displays of light and colour, creating a unique, immersive experience that blends art and technology.
- House of Islamic Arts A collection of over a thousand ceramics, textiles, manuscripts, and more, showcasing the rich history of Islamic art from around the world
Recommended Jeddah experiences
EXO Travel crafts immersive experiences that unlock the cultural and heritage wonders of Jeddah. From exploring the city’s diverse culinary traditions to embarking on a memorable boat trip, we tailor each Jeddah journey to match personal travel styles and passions. Here are a few inspiring ideas:
Experience the rich flavours of Saudi Arabian cuisine with this hands-on culinary adventure.
- Prepare a traditional meal with a local chef
- Learn about the spices, cooking techniques and distinctive culinary traditions
- Connect with local culture
An immersive day in Jeddah’s vibrant arts scene, visiting an array of venues, modern and historic.
- Explore rich artistic traditions at the House of Islamic Arts Museum
- Step into the future at teamLab Borderless Centre
- Stroll through the historic AlBalad neighbourhood
Explore Jeddah’s marine and heritage treasures on this exciting full-day experience.
- Cruise and snorkel in the Red Sea
- Dine on freshly caught seafood
- Explore historic AlBalad District
Embark on a culinary journey through Jeddah, exploring the city’s diverse flavours and faces.
- Sample a range of diverse flavours
- Walk through local neighourhooods
- Experience a taste of local life and culture
Where to stay
- AlBalad Hospitality Jeddah: A boutique hotel inspired by Jeddah’s AlBalad district, blending traditional Hijazi architecture with modern luxury. Its intimate setting offers a limited number of rooms, providing personalised service and an authentic cultural experience.
- Shirvan Hotel City Yard: Located in the upscale neighbourhood of Al-Shatea, this stylish hotel features contemporary design with Middle Eastern influences. It offers a serene, modern retreat, a short distance from Jeddah’s main sites.
- Shangri-La Jeddah: This luxury hotel boasts 235 rooms and suites, offering stunning views of the Red Sea. Situated on the Jeddah Corniche, it combines Shangri-La’s renowned hospitality with world-class dining, a lavish spa and more, making it a top choice for luxury travellers.
- Shada Hotel Shatea: A charming boutique hotel with 52 rooms, Shada Hotel Shatea blends contemporary style with traditional Saudi elements. Located in the lively Shatea District, it offers a cosy atmosphere with local artwork and a focus on warm hospitality.
Planning a Visit to Jeddah
Weather: Jeddah has a hot climate, with plenty of sunshine throughout the year. The ideal time to visit is between October and March, when temperatures are more moderate, ranging from 25-30°C, paired with a gentle Red Sea breeze. While April to September brings much higher temperatures, often exceeding 40°C, this period still offers excellent conditions for water sports along the Red Sea coast.
How to Get There Jeddah is easily accessible via King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED), one of Saudi Arabia’s busiest airports. The airport offers direct flights from major international cities such as London, Paris, Dubai and Singapore, along with domestic connections to Riyadh, AlUla and Tabuk. For overland travel, Jeddah is a nine-hour drive from Riyadh on modern highways, while Mecca is just an hour away.
What to Pack: Modest dress (knees and shoulders covered) is expected when travelling through Saudi Arabia. It is recommended to wear light fabrics and a hat to protect from the sun and shoes, rather than sandals, to protect feet from hot sand. For private boat trips, bathing suits and bikinis are permitted but please take care to cover up when closer to shore.
EXO Travel is a premium Destination Management Company (DMC) providing bespoke travel solutions across a growing portfolio of global destinations. Our services range from one-off tours for individual travellers to memorable incentive trips for groups of hundreds or thousands.
Established in 1993, we’ve harnessed in-depth local knowledge and a widely-recognized penchant for authentic, groundbreaking touring to become a leading DMC for the premium travel market. As a Certified B Corporation, EXO is also demonstrably committed to sustainability and using travel as a force for good.
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