16 Best Things to Do in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia (Update 2025!)
Nestled on the coast of the Red Sea, Jeddah is one of the largest and most beautiful cities in Saudi Arabia. Travelers are captivated by its traditional Arabian architecture and the striking contrasts, where history, the labyrinths of old town streets, and towering modern skyscrapers blend harmoniously.
Known as the gateway to Mecca, Jeddah offers every traveler a wide range of activities. Start with the variety of galleries, museums, and mosques, then continue your journey by immersing yourself in the bustling markets and the authentic atmosphere of the old town, and for the end, save a romantic stroll along the promenade. Find out all the top things to do in Jeddah – the sunniest place in all of Saudi Arabia!
Things to Do in Jeddah
Al-Balad – Old City of Jeddah
Al-Balad is the most famous spot in Jeddah, attracting tourists from all over the world. A UNESCO World Heritage Site was founded as early as the 7th century. Today, Al-Balad is considered the most beautiful existing ancient old town in the Middle East. Al-Balad is a living open-air museum, filled with uniquely designed buildings. Traditional houses are built from coral stone in the Hijazi architectural style, adorned with intricate teakwood lattices that cover windows and balconies.
As you stroll through the narrow, dusty streets, take a look at the centuries-old buildings, each with its own story to tell. The most beautiful and most photographed building is the Green House, known as Waqf Al-Shafei Al Kabeer. In the old town, you’ll also find several cafes, souvenir and spice shops, and on the outskirts of Al-Balad, a unique market where you can buy clothing, carpets, rare antiques, and other goods.
To learn more about Al-Balad, book a tour with a local guide, who will show you the city’s hidden gems and share untold stories.
Jeddah Corniche
Jeddah Corniche is a 30-kilometer-long promenade stretching along the Red Sea coast. It is a popular spot for locals to spend time with family, friends, or partners. People here enjoy picnics, engage in sports, ride bikes, or simply admire the sunset. Along the promenade, you’ll also find coffee kiosks and small food stalls, so after picking something up, you can sit on one of the many benches and take in the views of the Red Sea.
Accommodation: Here are all your hotel options in Jeddah.
Jeddah Sign
Although it’s not the most impressive spot in Jeddah, this sign is one of the most popular tourist attractions. Locals and tourists often stumble upon it while walking along the promenade, as it’s a great place to take a memorable photo. Set against a backdrop of palm trees, the sign looks its best at sunset, so be sure to visit in the evening.
Fakieh Aquarium
Opened in 2008, the Fakieh Aquarium is famous for its diverse marine flora and fauna. A visit to this aquarium takes you into one of the largest Red Sea-themed aquariums in the world. Dive into a fantastic underwater kingdom filled with strange and beautiful sea creatures. The Fakieh Aquarium consists of about 50 tanks holding around 5 million liters of water, housing 12,000 marine animals from 200 different species. Here, you can see sharks, seahorses, jellyfish, turtles, and many more.
The Fakieh Aquarium is also renowned for another attraction: a transparent underwater tunnel where visitors can walk and observe marine life up close, making you feel as though you are in the depths of the sea.
The aquarium hosts dolphin, walrus, and seal shows, and there’s even a 3D cinema. Younger visitors can take photos with sea lions or book a special meeting with the dolphins. There are also several shops in the aquarium where visitors can purchase various treats and souvenirs for their children and families.
Nassif House Museum
The Nassif House Museum is one of the most popular attractions in Al Balad. Built in 1880, the house is an excellent example of traditional Arabian architecture.
This seven-story building contains 106 rooms and, a century ago, served as the residence of the first king of Saudi Arabia, Abdul Aziz ibn Saud. In 1975, the Saudi Arabian government purchased the house and turned it into a historical monument, using it for various cultural activities.
Through the exhibits at the Nassif House Museum, visitors can gain insight into the lifestyle of wealthy merchant families in Jeddah from the late 19th to the early 20th century. The museum holds collections of antique furniture, textiles, ceramics, and household items. Additionally, it features a wide array of jewelry, photographs, and electronic devices. Visiting Nassif House Museum is one of the best things to do in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Al Taybat International City Museum of Science
The Al Taybat International City Museum of Science and Knowledge is one of Jeddah’s greatest historical treasures. Originally, it was the palace of Sheikh Abdul Raouf Hassan Khalil, constructed in the traditional Hejazi architectural style. This stunning Arab residence was eventually transformed into a museum, with some of the artifacts on display collected by the Sheikh himself.
The museum complex comprises several buildings, including a mosque, a library, and numerous exhibition halls. It houses an extensive collection of artworks and historical objects that offer insight into the cultural heritage of Saudi Arabia and the Islamic world. Among the most captivating exhibits are jewelry, coins, weapons, household items, clothing, and religious artifacts.
The museum also includes a restaurant serving traditional Saudi cuisine and a gift shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs and handicrafts. The exterior of the building is especially beautiful and photogenic, making it one of Jeddah’s top spots for photography. The museum’s doors, windows, and facades are adorned with intricate carvings that lend the building a magical appearance.
Tip: Admission to the museum is €20 (80 SAR), but if you’re mainly interested in the beautifully decorated buildings, you can explore the grounds for free and take stunning photos.
Al Rahmah Mosque
Al Rahma Mosque is built on stilts along the Red Sea coast, at the northern end of the Jeddah Corniche. During high tide, the mosque appears to float on the water, which is why it is also known as the Floating Mosque.
The mosque’s architecture blends ancient and modern Islamic styles. On the outside, visitors are drawn to its beautiful minaret, while inside, an impressive chandelier catches the eye. The interior walls of Al Rahmah Mosque are adorned with contemporary and traditional Islamic art, further enhancing the experience.
The mosque is open to visitors and tourists, though non-Muslims are only permitted to visit outside of prayer times. The best time to visit the mosque is during sunset or sunrise when its beauty is most striking.
Al Shallal Theme Park
Jeddah can be fun even when traveling with children, and the city’s attractions will fascinate the little ones too. Visit Al Shallal Theme Park, where from the very first moment, you’ll feel the magic in the air. Covering more than 60,000 m², this theme park has around 20 rides suitable for both children and adults.
Here, you can enjoy various attractions, try roller coasters, experience the thrill of free fall, or take a swing on the pirate ship. The park also features an impressive arcade and a video game center for children. When you’re ready to take a break from the fun, you can visit the on-site restaurants, cafes, and ice cream kiosks.
Working Hours: The park opens every day at 4:30 p.m. and operates until midnight.
Red Sea Mall
Red Sea Mall is one of the largest shopping malls in Jeddah, offering more than 240,000 square meters of retail space. The mall spans few floors and houses over 400 stores, including both local and international brands. Red Sea Mall offers visitors a wide range of shopping opportunities, from affordable retailers to high-end designer shops.
It also attracts visitors with its impressive interior and by featuring the first cinema in Jeddah. If you’re looking to dine after shopping, Red Sea Mall boasts numerous excellent restaurants where you can enjoy both authentic Arabic dishes and Western cuisine.
Souq Al Alawi
Jeddah is home to many markets, but Souq Al Alawi, located near Al-Balad, is one of the largest in the city. Here, you can purchase antiques, artwork, handicrafts, abayas, jewelry, colorful traditional clothing, spices, and other items. To make the most of your visit, explore the souq in the late afternoon or evening. This is when the market is most lively, and the cooler temperatures create a pleasant shopping experience.
Don’t be afraid to haggle with the vendors—it’s part of the culture and can often lead to finding hidden treasures at great prices. After shopping, take a moment to enjoy a cup of traditional Saudi coffee (qahwa) and sample some local dates. Visiting this vibrant local market is one of the best things to do in Jeddah, so don’t forget to pick up a souvenir for yourself and your loved ones.
Al Saif Beach
Al Saif is a public beach located about 20 kilometers south of Jeddah, along the Red Sea coast. This beach is particularly popular among locals seeking tranquility. Visitors come here to escape the city’s noise. At the beach, you can enjoy water sports, go snorkeling, watch a magical sunset, or simply take a long walk along the shoreline.
If you’re planning a day trip, be sure to pack a picnic, as there are plenty of shaded spots perfect for relaxing with family or friends. The calm waters make it a great location for children to swim. During weekends, the beach often has a lively atmosphere, with families setting up barbecues and playing music. Don’t forget to bring along your snorkeling gear to explore the colorful marine life that thrives just off the coast.
Jeddah Flagpole
This Jeddah Flagpole is an engineering wonder that is also a grand symbol of aspirations and national unity. Standing 171 meters tall, it proudly holds the title of the world’s tallest flagpole, crowned with a giant Saudi Arabian flag. Weighing around 570 kilograms and measuring 49 meters in width and 33 meters in length, the flag is an impressive feat of engineering. It needed a specially designed structure to hold its weight and withstand strong winds and extreme weather conditions.
Finished in 2014, this monument has grown to become a key landmark for the city and a marker of national pride. With its construction, Saudi Arabia pays tribute to modern engineering. The flagpole also serves as a tourist attraction and a magnet for locals eager to see this magnificent creation. It is a technological marvel and a symbol of national unity, embodying Saudi history and global ambitions.
Globe Roundabout
At the intersection of King Fahd Road and Al Andalus Road stands another famous landmark of Jeddah – the Globe Roundabout. This eye-catching metallic globe is made of stainless steel, with a diameter of 18 meters. At night, the globe is illuminated with blue and green lights, which reveal a glowing world map. I recommend visiting the Globe Roundabout after dark to take a selfie next to your home country.
While you’re there, take a moment to admire the surrounding area, which is bustling with life, especially in the evenings. The roundabout is located near several shopping centers and cafes, making it a convenient stop for an evening outing in the city.
King Fahd’s Fountain
King Fahd’s Fountain also known as Jeddah Fountain, it is famous worldwide as the tallest fountain, with its water shooting up to a height of 312 meters. Because of this, the fountain is visible from several kilometers away. It is powered by three massive pumps that propel an astonishing 625 liters of water per second at a speed of 375 km/h. At night, the fountain is illuminated by 500 bright lights installed around it, enhancing the view. Jeddah Fountain typically operates from sunset until 3 a.m.
Also read: Things to Do in AlUla, Saudi Arabia
Diving In Jeddah
Divers from around the world are slowly beginning to discover Saudi Arabia’s underwater treasures. The country is already being regarded as one of the world’s best diving destinations, as the Red Sea’s depths hide vast underwater riches.
Jeddah is home to several professional diving centers that offer a range of courses for beginners and advanced divers alike. Among Jeddah’s most famous diving spots are the Sharm Obhur coast, Ann Ann, and the Chicken Wreck sites. Whichever location you choose, you’ll be amazed by the rich marine life and marine flora.
The vibrant underwater world of the Red Sea offers joy and excitement to both professional and amateur divers. Don’t forget to bring an underwater camera to capture the mysterious sea world. This is one of the most amazing things to do when visiting Jeddah!
Tours & Activities in Jeddah
Jeddah attracts tourists with its wide range of entertainment options. There’s something for everyone in this city. I highly recommend booking a guided tour of Jeddah’s most popular attractions, where a guide will show you the city’s most fascinating landmarks.
Adventure seekers can try desert safaris just outside the city, where you’ll ride through golden sand dunes and experience breathtaking sunsets. For a more relaxed outing, hop on a boat tour along the Red Sea coast and enjoy panoramic views of Jeddah’s skyline from the water. Also, don’t miss the opportunity to try snorkeling and other various activities.
How To Get To Jeddah
Jeddah’s airport is one of the busiest in Saudi Arabia, so you should have no trouble getting to Jeddah. Saudi Arabia’s national carrier, Saudia, is headquartered at Jeddah’s airport, offering a wide range of international flight routes to Europe, Asia, and the Americas. Additionally, many other major international airlines, such as Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines, Emirates, and IndiGo, also fly to Jeddah.
If you’re looking for cheaper flight tickets, visit the Aegean Airlines website. The Greek airline occasionally announces great sales. It was with this airline that I flew from Warsaw to Jeddah, and I paid only 200 euros for a round trip.
Best Time To Visit Jeddah
Jeddah’s climate is classified as arid, meaning the city enjoys sunshine almost all year round with very little rainfall. Jeddah’s average annual temperature is 28°C, with just 79 mm of rainfall. The hottest months are July and August, with an average temperature of 36°C. The lowest average temperature occurs in January, at 21°C. The best time to visit Jeddah is from November to April. During these months, the heat is less intense, and the temperature ranges between 21°C and 30°C. The waters of the Red Sea are suitable for swimming year-round, making it an ideal vacation destination for those looking to escape rain or winter cold.
Tip: Since the sun shines constantly in Jeddah, be sure to pack sunscreen. I always use well-known brands with SPF 50 when traveling.
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Where To Stay In Jeddah
Each year, the number of hotels in Jeddah grows as Saudi Arabia welcomes more foreign tourists. Thanks to the wide range of accommodation prices, both budget-conscious and luxury-seeking travelers can find the perfect place to stay in this city.
When choosing a location, I recommend booking a hotel in the Al Shati or Al-Hamra districts. Below, I’ve listed a few hotel options for different budgets, so I hope you’ll find the one that suits you best.
Budget Hotels
- Staytion Express Orjwan Lebanon – A well-rated hotel located in the Al Salamah district, close to Jeddah’s tourist attractions. Guests can stay in rooms that are equipped with air conditioning, TVs, private bathrooms, and free Wi-Fi.
- ibis Jeddah City Center – A hotel belonging to the globally recognized chain, located in the central part of Jeddah. The hotel offers modern rooms with free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and flat-screen TVs.
Mid-Range Hotels
- Aluya Hotel is located in one of my favorite areas of Jeddah, Al Hamra, near restaurants and shopping malls. The hotel features an outdoor pool, a fitness center, free parking, and offers spa services. The spacious rooms are equipped with air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and private bathrooms.
- Sunset Jeddah – A highly-rated hotel, located in a strategic area of Jeddah. The rooms feature air conditioning, flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, seating areas, coffee makers, and private bathrooms.
Luxury Hotels
- Waldorf Astoria Jeddah – Qasr Al Sharq resort offers its guests 38 impressively decorated rooms, all equipped with various modern amenities. The luxury resort includes an indoor pool, a wellness spa, three restaurants, and a fitness center.
- The Ritz-Carlton Jeddah hotel is located right next to the Al Hamra promenade. The accommodation welcomes guests with top-class rooms, a variety of services, and warm hospitality. The hotel features a hot tub, spa and wellness center, gym, and two restaurants offering various international dishes.
How To Get Around Jeddah
The city of Jeddah is vast, but its public transportation system is not yet well developed. Although there are significant distances between some tourist attractions, the most convenient and affordable way to travel around the city is by taxi. There are plenty of taxis in Jeddah, so it’s easy to hail one in busier areas. Opt for one of the green taxis, as they are the cheaper option. Always ask the driver to turn on the meter; otherwise, you may end up paying much more than necessary.
Traveling around Jeddah is also convenient and affordable using ride-hailing apps like Uber or Careem. Prices are usually lower than those of taxis, especially during non-peak hours.
FAQs About Things To Do In Jeddah
How many days should I spend in Jeddah?
It all depends on how many places you want to visit in Jeddah and how you plan to travel around the city. I would recommend spending at least a few days to see the main attractions and have time to relax and immerse yourself in the local culture.
Is it worth visiting Jeddah?
Of course, Jeddah is definitely worth visiting! It’s probably the most beautiful city in Saudi Arabia, and what impressed me the most were its rich history, fascinating culture, and incredibly friendly locals.
Is there a dress code for Jeddah?
There is no strict dress code, but when traveling around Jeddah, it’s recommended to dress modestly in public, avoiding short skirts or see-through clothing.
Can you drink tap water in Jeddah?
It’s not recommended to drink tap water in Jeddah, so it’s best to buy bottled water from stores. I personally use a Grayl GeoPress water purifier bottle when traveling, and I’ve never had issues with water contamination. This bottle protects against waterborne pathogens (viruses, bacteria, protozoan cysts), as well as pesticides, chemicals, heavy metals, and microplastics. It’s a great investment.
Can a visitor drive a car in Jeddah?
Yes, visitors can drive in Jeddah if they have an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with a valid driver’s license from their home country.
Is it safe to visit Jeddah?
Jeddah has one of the lowest crime rates in the world, so safety is rarely a concern. However, be mindful of pickpockets and scammers, as they may target tourists. Keep an eye on your wallet, carry minimal cash, and leave your passport in your hotel room.
Does Jeddah have museums?
Yes, Jeddah has museums, and some of the most interesting ones are the Nassif House Museum, Al Taybat International City Museum, Khuzam Palace Museum, and Matbouli House Museum.
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I hope you enjoyed my list of things to do in Jeddah!
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Marius
Hi, my name is Marius, and I’m driven by a desire to explore the hidden corners of the world. Less-traveled destinations like Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and Mongolia fascinate me with their authentic cultures and untouched landscapes. For me, every trip is an opportunity to challenge myself, meet new people, and create memories that last a lifetime.
