Fun and Exciting Things to do in Jeddah

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Are you looking for fun things to do in Jeddah? Many skip Jeddah in order to enjoy th bright lights of Riyad but I’m here to convince you otherwise. It is genuinely one of my favorite cities in the Middle East. It’s very safe, full of culture, and exciting things to do. Jeddah was my first stop on my way to complete Umrah in Makkah. I loved how modern and clean the streets in Jeddah are. In fact, I plan on returning iA!

Whether you’re visiting for work or a religious pilgrimage, there’s always something fun to do in Jeddah. So grab your most beautiful abaya, and let’s explore the city coined ” The Bride of the Red Sea”.

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Activities

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1. Visit Masjid Al Rahma (The Floating Mosque)

Unlike other major cities like Riyadh or AlUla, Jeddah is located on the sea. One of Jeddah’s most stunning attractions is Masjid Al Rahma, known as the Floating Mosque. The mosque lies on top of the Red Sea and is surrounded by sandy shores. Some say that during high tide, it looks like it’s floating. It’s open to both worshippers and non-Muslims, but make sure to bring proper clothing, including hijab and abaya for women and long pants for men. It’s a magical place to reflect and pray, and the sea views at sunset feel like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Don’t forget your camera!

2. Explore Historic Jeddah

Photos of the Historic District Center will pop up whenever you google Jeddah. It’s the iconic image of Jeddah. Its rich history and impeccable conservation efforts have led to it being recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage. I fell in love with its stunning architecture, intricate doors and hand-crafted windows. I’ve never seen buildings like this on my other travels, so I spent hours getting lost while admiring their beauty. While there, I randomly came across an outdoor mural and art exhibit celebrating Muhammad Ali. I was gobsmacked at the amount of effort and detail they put into it. While there, visit the Jeddah Heritage Center to learn more about the city’s fascinating history.

The best time to visit Jeddah’s historic district is during Eid, Ramadan, or , the Historic Jeddah Festival. During the festival, more than 500,000 visitors come to celebrate Saudi culture and heritage. If you want to stay in a hotel with authentic decor and atmosphere, I recommend Al Balad Hospitality, a 5 star hotel in the perfect location.

3. Jeddah Old Gates

The wall around Historic Jeddah was built in the 1500s by Sultan Abu al-Nasr Qansuh al-Ashraf Qaitbay, who was the last Sultan of Egypt’s Burji Mamluks. He ordered one of his leaders, Hussein al-Kurdi, to construct it to help protect Jeddah from Portuguese ships and attacks. In an effort to make the wall stronger, they built forts and towers, set up cannons, and dug a trench around the outside. It was also used as a getaway to Umrah and Hajj, due to its location. There’s not much to see in the immediate area, so you’ll probably spend about $20 minutes here.

4. Shopping in Jeddah

If you’re hoping to beat the sun and buy souvenirs, go to one of the malls in Jeddah. There are shopping options for every budget level, including luxurious malls and traditional souks. The malls have local boutiques and international brands like Sephora. Some popular malls are Red Sea Mall and Mall of Arabia. One unique thing about malls in Jeddah is that you’ll find prayer rooms and women-only shopping floors in some malls. I highly recommend buying beautiful abayas and dresses while you’re here. I recommend buying incense, tea sets, and gold at the souks.

5. Have Fun at Al Shallal Theme Park

White and Gray metal structure — Photo by Aidan Roof

If you’re traveling with children or love a little adventure, check out Al Shallal Theme Park. Yes, there’s an amusement park in the middle of Jeddah. Adventure lovers will enjoy the rollercoasters, games, and attractions. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping rides or gentle rides for younger kids, there’s something for everyone. It’s the perfect spot for a family day out!

6. King Fahd’s Fountain

the King Fadh Water Fountain right before sunset

When visiting the Floating Mosque, you can also walk on the corniche. You’ll pass lots of restaurants, shops, and King Fahd Fountain. This salt-water fountain is named after King Fahd bin Abdul Azi, who donated it to the City of Jeddah. It shoots water over 1000 feet, making it the tallest water fountain in the world. it’s an incredible sight, especially during sunset or when illuminated at night.

7. Enjoy a Cozy Coffee Shop

The first thing you’ll see when you get off the plane in Jeddah is a coffee shop. Coffee is called karak in Saudi Arabia; prepare to drink lots of it. Hosts will invite you in for coffee and dates, and there’s a cafe everywhere. Most of the cafes come alive at night. You’ll see many women ordering coffee and hanging out with friends. One popular coffee shop is Jadeel Coffee. I loved their desserts, although there was a little wait due to how busy it became. Cup & Couch Cafe and Roastery and Local Cafe are two popular spots known for their great coffee and cozy atmospheres.

8. Go Scuba Diving

Black woman with bunny ears and pink and black wetsuit giving the peace sign underwater while scuba diving

Sometimes I feel like Jeddah is a hidden gem. Not only is it safe, beautiful, with lots of culture, but you can also scuba dive in Jeddah! For my fellow dive lovers, Jeddah is a fantastic diving destination. The Red Sea is famous for its= vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Join a scuba diving tour to see the beauty of Jeddah above and below the sea.

Fun Things to Do in Jeddah Summary

Jeddah beautifully merges the old with the new, offering many activities for everyone. There’s never a dull moment, from shopping and diving to exploring historic sites. So, gather your loved ones and embark on your next adventure in this enchanting city. Happy exploring!