Top 10 Things to Do in Jeddah

Located on the Red Sea coast in western Saudi Arabia, the contemporary city of Jeddah, often called the “Gate of Makkah,” provides an ideal fusion of tradition and modernity. With its vibrant marketplaces, breathtaking shoreline, and rich history, Jeddah offers a thrilling blend of activities for all kinds of visitors. Whether you're an adventurer, a history enthusiast, or just someone who wants to unwind by the ocean, Jeddah has something for every visitor.

From visiting the majestic King Fahd Fountain, one of the tallest fountains in the world, to meandering through the winding streets of Al-Balad, the city never ceases to captivate you at every step. From visiting Al-Shallal Theme Park with a range of rides and activities for a bold and daring experience to strolling through Athr Gallery, offering eye-opening exhibitions that immerse you in Saudi Arabia's rich cultural heritage while showcasing the creative energy of the kingdom, you name it, Jeddah’s got it.

So, ready to explore the city? Here is an ultimate guide on the best things to do in Jeddah. Let’s get right into it!

The King Fahd Fountain is among the tallest fountains in the world and one of Jeddah's signature landmarks. Located on the Red Sea shore, the fountain produces a striking image as it gushes water up to a height of 312 meters and becomes lovely when lit up in the evening, making it ideal for a relaxing walk along the Corniche. There are lovely walking trails, picnic areas, and amazing vistas of the Red Sea in the neighboring Corniche region. Moreover, visitors may also enjoy a broad range of gastronomic treats from vendors like Seven while they stroll down the Corniche and take in the fountain's vista.

Set off on a once-in-a-lifetime tour of Jeddah's historical center, Al Balad, which is a World Heritage Site recognized by UNESCO and has some of the most outstanding examples of classical Red Sea architecture. Featuring wooden Rawashins swinging overhead and historic gateways such as Bab Jadeed and Bab Makkah leading into the old passageways, the neighborhood is rich in old-school charm. More than 10 historic homes, such as Bait Nassif, created in the 19th century, and Bait Nour Wali, still grace this place. Visit the historic marketplaces and find unique mementos, traditional spices, and handcrafted crafts, and take part in seasonal festivities, exhibits, and cultural events that are frequently held in the historical district.

The 30-kilometer Jeddah Corniche, a waterfront walkway along the Red Sea, is among Saudi Arabia's most appealing tourist and recreational places. Whether it's the idea of a stroll along the promenade while taking in the refreshing sea breeze or enjoying an extended bicycle ride on its 4,500-meter sports track, the Corniche is your all-access pass to outdoor relaxation. Peppered with picnic spots, parks, and seafood joints, this coastal stretch offers one of Jeddah’s best experiences waiting to be savored. Furthermore, the Corniche is also known as Jeddah's OpenAir Museum thanks to its number of art installations, including beautiful sculptures inspired by the art of Jean Miró and Henry Moore.

The Fakieh Aquarium serves as the greatest place to enjoy marine life in the Kingdom and is one of the top tourist destinations in Jeddah for families and young people. More than 200 species, which include territorial sohal surgeonfish and Napoleon wrasse, are on display at the marine exhibition area, with 85% of them being indigenous to the coral reefs off the coast of Jeddah. The Fakieh Aquarium features expansive corridors and tunnels, enormous tanks, and fascinating exhibits showcasing jellyfish, penguins, and sharks, offering visitors an immersive marine experience.

Al Rahma Mosque, often referred to as the Floating Mosque, is a stunning architectural marvel that was built on the edge of the Jeddah Corniche. During high tide, this mosque appears to float on the water, offering a blend of conventional Islamic architecture with modern lighting and sound systems that enhance its beauty and functionality.

Visiting Al Shallal Theme Park, which spans sixty thousand square meters on Jeddah's Corniche, is one of the best fun things to do in Jeddah for thrill-seekers of all ages. With its hair-raising rides, roller coasters, zip lines, boats, bowling, arcade games, and a special area for children, this park is perfect for people of all ages. If you enjoy winter sports, the arid community even boasts an ice skating rink.

Souq Al Dahab serves as one of the best places to visit in Jeddah, whether you want to buy traditional Arabian antiques or just take in the vibrant ambiance of the bazaar. This market, which is well-known for its assortment of handcrafted goods, textiles, spices, fragrances, and gold jewelry, is a veritable gold mine for anybody wishing to bring home one-of-a-kind things. The sounds of haggling reverberating through the historic alleyways and the scents of exotic spices fill the vibrant ambiance.

If you’re into modern Saudi art, Athr Gallery is a great spot to check out. It’s tucked inside the upscale Sairafi Mall area in Jeddah and gives up-and-coming artists a place to show off their fresh and creative work. You’ll find pieces that really capture the mix of cultures in Saudi Arabia. Plus, some well-known names like Ahmad Mater and Muhammad Shono have displayed their art here, making it a top place to experience today’s Saudi art scene.

For foodies looking for a true gastronomic experience in Jeddah, Al Khayal Restaurant is a haven of refined ambiance and rich flavors where you will be immersed in a world of delectable treats. The menu of Al Khayal features a variety of traditional Arabian delicacies that are expertly prepared to guarantee a memorable dining experience. Signature delicacies like Kabsa and Mandi are a must-try. Kabsa, a mainstay of Arabian cuisine, is a rice-based dish with soft meat laced with aromatic spices. In a similar vein, Mandi, another well-liked treat, is made with perfectly cooked, juicy meat and aromatic rice that perfectly captures the spirit of Arabian cooking.

Get to Jeddah's famous Red Sea Mall and lose yourself in a universe of shopping therapy. With its ideal fusion of high-street fashion, premium brands, and local businesses, this expansive shopping haven is a must-visit place for die-hard deal hunters. As you enter, you'll come across eye-catching displays of luxury brands like Louis Vuitton and Gucci alongside global names including Zara, H&M, and Sephora. The mall’s modern architecture, grocery store, arcade, multi-screen cinema, and one of the largest indoor fountains in Saudi Arabia create a welcoming atmosphere that invites visitors to explore its many offerings.