The old port and trading city of Jeddah stretches between the desert, mountains and the Red Sea. It is the second largest city in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia after Riyadh and is still considered an insider’s tip among holiday destinations. Muslim pilgrims have long known it as the gateway to the Islamic pilgrimage sites of Mecca and Medina. Jeddah can look back on around 2,500 years of history. The old town, with its traditional merchants’ houses, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The harmonious interplay between tradition and modernity is reflected in a cityscape characterised by impressive mosques, traditional souks and futuristic skyscrapers. Walking along the 35-kilometre-long coastal promenade, there is not only fresh sea air to enjoy, but also beaches, amusement parks and the world’s highest fountain to discover.
Numbers, data, facts
- Time difference: + 2 hours
- Population: 3.7 million
- Official language: Arabic
- Currency: Saudi Riyal (SAR)
Old trading city on the Red Sea
Fascinating Saudi Arabia
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is a desert state that takes up most of the Arabian Peninsula. Jeddah is located in Mecca Province on the Red Sea and is the gateway to the Islamic pilgrimage sites of Mecca and Medina, which can be reached quickly and easily with an express train connection from Jeddah Airport. However, the city of Mecca itself is only open to Muslims.
The Hajj pilgrimage takes place here every year. Non-Muslims have also been allowed to travel to Medina since 2022 with the exception of the holy area Al-Haram with the Prophet’s Mosque.
Around 50 kilometres north of Jeddah is the town of Thuwal, location of the renowned King Abdullah University of Science and Technology. If you head east, you will come to the Hejaz Mountains, where the city of Taif is located at an altitude of 1,680 metres. Situated on a fertile plateau, the mountain village is famous for growing citrus fruits, pomegranates, figs and roses. Those travelling further north from Jeddah will discover one of the country’s most famous sights: the rock tombs of Hegra near Al-Ula.
Excursions around Jeddah
Jeddah from BER
- Airlines to Jeddah
- Airport from BER
Five travel tips for ...
1. Apply for a tourist visa in advance
2. Pack long, closed clothing
3. Avoid travelling during pilgrimage times
4. Do not display signs of affection, such as holding hands and kissing
5. Alcohol and pork are strictly forbidden
1. Shop till you drop: Red Sea Mall
2. Local and international brands: Mall of Arabia
3. Traditional street market: Gabel Street Souk
4. Large and luxurious: the Khayyat Centre
5. Everything your heart desires: Souk Al Shati
1. Local favourite: fried najil (white fish with spices)
2. Fried, boiled or steamed: prawns and crabs
3. Fish kofta: fish fillet with onions, coriander and mashed potatoes
4. Insider’s tip from the oven: the fish dish mashramel with tahini
5. Small and crispy: fried sijan
Picture source title:
© sainuddeen/stock.adobe.com
The information published on this page is current as of the date of publication or update.
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