Everything You Need to Know About Jiddah – The Gateway to Makkah

Jiddah, also known as Jeddah, is the second-largest city in Saudi Arabia and serves as the gateway to Makkah for millions of pilgrims from around the world. Located on the coast of the Red Sea, Jiddah is a bustling metropolis that blends modernity with tradition. In this blog post, we’ll be answering some of the most frequently asked questions about Jiddah.

What is the Best Time to Visit Jiddah?

Jiddah experiences a desert climate with hot summers and warm winters. The best time to visit Jiddah is during the winter months from November to February, where temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C. The weather is pleasant and perfect for outdoor activities.

How do I Get to Jiddah?

Jiddah is one of the most well-connected cities in Saudi Arabia with a modern international airport that serves many global destinations. You can fly to Jiddah from almost any major city around the world. Saudia Airlines, the national carrier of Saudi Arabia and many other airlines operate regular flights to Jiddah. You can also get to Jiddah by road from other cities in Saudi Arabia.

What are the Must-Visit Tourist Attractions in Jiddah?

Jiddah is known for its beautiful beaches and cosmopolitan culture. Some of the must-visit tourist attractions in Jiddah are:

The Jiddah Corniche:

The Jiddah Corniche is a beautiful coastal promenade that runs along the Red Sea. It’s the perfect place to take a stroll, enjoy the sea breeze and admire the stunning views of the Red Sea.

The Floating Mosque:

The Floating Mosque, also known as the King Fahd Floating Fountain, is an architectural marvel located on the Corniche. It’s built on the Red Sea and appears to be floating on the water.

The Historic Old Town:

The Historic Old Town of Jiddah, known as Al-Balad, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s a maze of narrow alleys and traditional buildings that offer a glimpse into the city’s past.

What is the Food Like in Jiddah?

Jiddah’s location on the coast of the Red Sea means that seafood is a major part of the local cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes in Jiddah are:

Machboos:

Machboos is a traditional Saudi Arabian dish made with spiced rice and meat. It’s often served with a side of tomato and onion salad.

Sambusa:

Sambusa is a pastry stuffed with spiced beef or chicken. It’s a popular snack in Jiddah and can be found in many local bakeries.

Mandi:

Mandi is a rice and meat dish that’s slow-cooked in a traditional oven. It’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Is Jiddah Safe for Tourists?

Jiddah, like any other major city, has its share of crime, but overall it’s a safe city for tourists. The Saudi Arabian government takes security very seriously, and there are strict laws and regulations in place to ensure the safety of visitors.

What Should I Wear in Jiddah?

Saudi Arabia has a conservative dress code, and visitors to Jiddah are expected to follow the country’s regulations. Men should wear long trousers and shirts that cover their arms, while women are required to cover their hair and wear loose-fitting, ankle-length clothing.

Conclusion

Jiddah is a vibrant and multi-cultural city that has something to offer for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or just want to relax on the beach, Jiddah has it all. We hope this blog post has answered some of your questions about Jiddah and has inspired you to plan your next visit.

Insider’s Guide to Jeddah – The Gateway to Makkah

Jeddah is a vibrant city and the commercial capital of Saudi Arabia. As a cosmopolitan city, it offers a mix of traditional and modern experiences. It is the gateway to several major tourist destinations, including Makkah, the holiest city in Islam. It is situated on the Red Sea coast, providing beautiful views, and many beaches and water sports activities. Here is an insider’s guide to Jeddah, highlighting everything you need to know.

Local Attractions

1. Al-Balad: This is Jeddah’s old town area, which is home to many beautiful traditional houses with wooden lattices and labyrinths of narrow streets. The main attraction is the historic Jeddah Gate and Souq Al Alawi, where you can shop for traditional handicrafts and food.

2. King Fahd’s Fountain: This is Jeddah’s most iconic landmark, which is also recognized as the tallest fountain globally, shooting water up to 853 feet. It provides beautiful views of the Red Sea coast during the day and night.

3. Makkah Gate: This decorative structure welcomes visitors who are on their way to Makkah. It has a gold dome and beautiful Islamic calligraphy on marble tiles.

4. Jeddah Corniche: This corniche is situated on the Red Sea coast and is an ideal place to spend time with your loved ones and enjoy the views and pleasant climate. You can also have a camel ride and indulge in water sports activities like surfing, jet skiing, and more.

Dining

Jeddah is famous for its vast range of restaurants, offering authentic Arabian, Asian, and Mediterranean cuisine. Here are a few recommended dining spots:

1. Al Nakheel Restaurant: This restaurant provides a unique ambiance with outdoor seating in a garden beside the sea. It serves delicious seafood, Middle Eastern, and international cuisine.

2. Al Baik: This restaurant chain is popular all over Saudi Arabia and is famous for its crispy fried chicken and garlic sauce.

3. Villa Restaurant – Abdul Raouf Khalil Museum: This is a traditional museum located in Al-Balad area. You can dine in the inner courtyard of the museum, which offers a peaceful ambiance amidst the busy market area. The restaurant serves traditional Arabian and Asian Cuisine.

Cultural Experiences

1. Jeddah Sculpture Museum: This museum exhibits sculptures of modern artists, showcasing the blend of traditional and contemporary art forms.

2. Jeddah Corniche Mosque: This mosque is situated on the corniche and is known for its beautiful architecture of a mosque and an Arabian Palace.

3. Jeddah Art Week: If you visit Jeddah in February, you can witness the Jeddah Art Week event that features art exhibitions, concerts, and cultural performances.

Local History

Jeddah is one of the oldest cities in the world, dating back to the 7th century AD. It was the main gateway for pilgrims traveling to Makkah, and its port was essential for import and export trade. The city has seen a lot of transformations from the ancient era to the current modern times. Al-Balad area still shows the city’s past, with several traditional and historic buildings present.

Off-the-beaten-path suggestions

1. Al Tayebat International Museum: This museum showcases the history, arts, and culture of Saudi Arabia. It also features significant collections from Gulf countries.

2. Kayaking at Red Sea: You can rent a kayak and explore the crystal-clear water of the Red Sea. You can also witness several types of coral and underwater sea species.

3. Scuba Diving: Jeddah is known for its great scuba diving spots, where you can explore marine life and sunken shipwrecks.

In conclusion, Jeddah is an enticing destination full of historical landmarks, modern attractions, and rich Islamic culture. It is indeed an ideal gateway to Makkah. If you plan to visit Saudi Arabia, Jeddah should be on your must-visit list, and this guide should be your ultimate companion.