Things to Do in Jeddah
What to do in Jeddah
Shop at Souk al-Alawi, Explore Al Balad, Pray at the Floating Mosque, Browse Books at Jarir Bookstore, Spend some fun time at Atallah Happy Land Park, Go on a shopping spree in Jeddah, Visit Jeddah’s famous corniche, and many more.
You will find several things to do in Jeddah, the second-largest city of Saudi Arabia and a principal gateway to the two holy cities - Mecca and Medina. The city will offer you a blend of traditional monuments, beautiful mosques, and modern city structures. You will feel astonished to find a part of the city, Al Balad, dating back to the 7th century still retaining the traditional homes built from coral. On another part, you will find Corniche, a seafront promenade, showcasing the epitome of modernization with its Resorts, beaches, and outdoor sculptures along with the star attraction being King Fahd’s Fountain.
There are also several Fun Things to do in Jeddah that you can indulge in. You can visit the city’s several amusement and theme parks to bring out the child in you. While the mesmerizing Red Sea will offer you watersport options such as scuba diving, snorkeling, kitesurfing, etc, the Jeddah desserts will offer you options for Desert Safari, sandboarding, camel ride, and camping. Those with an interest in art may check out the art galleries to admire the Arabic art forms. Foodies would like a taste of traditional Arabian cuisines and shopaholics would feel spoilt for choice running between traditional souks and modern malls.
Masjid Al Rahma, also known as the Floating Mosque or Fatima Al Zahra Mosque, is one of Jeddah's most attractive tourist attractions. Built on pillars on the Red Sea coast, this majestic white mosque appears floating in the water during high tide when the water level touches the base, hence the name. Featuring both traditional and modern architecture.
As its name suggests, Fakieh Aquarium in Saudi Arabia is a stunning aquarium that is often visited by children and families. This Caribbean-themed family entertainment complex is home to a plethora of bewildering marine creatures, such as jellyfish, dolphins, sharks, stonefish, and giant turtles. While you are here, you can enjoy the fascinating dolphin show. You can also shop souvenirs from the gift store and relish delicious food from the cafe.
The fountain was donated to the city of Jeddah by King Fahd and hence the name. It is a Guiness Book of World Records holder as the largest fountain in the world and is visible throughout the vicinity of Jeddah. The fountain is of significance in the Arabic world as it is built in the shape of a makhbara or an incense burner which hold special importance in the religious world of Islam. The fountain is lit by 500 high light LEDs.
Jeddah Light is the world's tallest light tower at the height of 133 m (431 ft). Serving as an observation tower, a port control tower, and an active lighthouse, it is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Jeddah City. Its white cylindrical structure, featuring a spheric observation building with a balcony on the top, is a sight to behold.
The world-famous Corniche is a promenade with stores, restaurants, and cafes that is one of the most popular sites to visit in Jeddah, in addition to being one of the nicest spots in Saudi Arabia. Locals, tourists, and expats flock to this location for its spectacular views of the Red Sea, and with so many things to do around the Corniche, it's easy to lose track of time attempting new things.
The Atallah Happy Land Park is a fun family destination in Jeddah. Located near the city's center on the Corniche, overlooking the Red Sea, it is one of the first amusement parks in Saudi Arabia. This leisure park has both indoor and outdoor attractions for all ages. Its outdoor park has numerous rides for adults and kids. It also has video and arcade games as well as bungee-trampolines and climbing walls for the more adventurous visitor.
A symbol of Jeddah’s rich past, the Nassif House Museum was built in 1880 and is one of Balad’s most majestic ancient mansions. The 106-room and 7-storey house served as a residence for King Abdulaziz ibn Saud, the founder of modern-day Saudi Arabia. The house became a library in 1975, but it's 16,000 books are now preserved at King Abdulaziz University.
Globe Roundabout is a colossal glass and steel structure located north of King Abdulaziz Road near the Palace of King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz and Al-Murjan district. Featuring a large circular shape and gigantic dimensions, it portrays Makkah as the light and center of the Islamic world. It gets illuminated and comes to life during the evening hours, flashing turquoise light against the night sky.
Al Shallal Theme Park, the largest theme park in the Middle East, is considered one of the best tourist attractions in Saudi Arabia. The park is located on the west coast of Saudi Arabia, near Al-Khobar city. It has a total area of 54000 square meters and houses more than 40 attractions, including roller coasters and water rides. In addition to tourists from across the globe, it also attracts many Saudis for a day out.
Darat Safeya Binzagr is a small private gallery in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia that perfectly embodies the standards of international galleries while making a unique national impact. It houses a permanent collection of Saudi artist Safeya Binzagr's work as well as priceless antique clothing, textiles, and tools dating back over a century. The gallery also offers workshops and art panels and houses research libraries, gift shops, and exhibition halls.
Al-Balad
Al- Balad is the historical area of Jeddah and is one of the largest cities of Saudi Arabia. It has historical importance as it was found in the 7th century and served as the centre of the city of Jeddah. It also houses a Christian cemetery and several other places of interest consisting of some of the oldest houses likeAl Nassif House and Al Jamjoom House. Some of these houses are up for restoration to preserve the old Saudi Heritage.
One of the most popular private beaches in Jeddah, Silver Sand Beach is an ideal destination to relax or enjoy ultimate fun. Being a private beach, it offers seclusion and is an excellent place to spend some moments amidst a beautiful seascape away from the crowd. This Jeddah sand beach requires advance reservations and an entrance fee. It offers a mind, eye, and soul retreat for water sports enthusiasts and surf, sun, & sand lovers.
Known for Science and Knowledge, Al Tayebat International City is a huge museum dedicated to the history of the region. With four floors, 18 wings, 300 rooms, and over 60,000 Islamic artifacts from around the world, it portrays a wonderful blend of art and culture. From ancient coins to modern furniture, it has a wide collection of art from Middle Eastern Countries.
The city of Jeddah is well-known for its traditional souks, the most famous amongst these is Souq Shatee. Popular with both locals and tourists, it is home to a variety of regional shops as well as a few well-known international showrooms. Clothing, jewelry, souvenirs, abayas, toys, footwear, accessories, and many more items are all available for purchase in these stores
The Red Sea Mall in Riyadh is the largest shopping mall in the Middle East. The mall is located in the northeastern part of the city on King Abdulaziz Al Saud Street and it is surrounded by a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial areas. The mall has almost two million square meters of gross leasable area including over 100 shops and restaurants, as well as an eleven-screen cinema complex with 3D movies available.
Moon Valley is the best place to go hiking in Jeddah. The valley is in Jabal al Jadid, near Usfan, known for its spectacular landscape and unusual rock formations. It is a popular destination for adventurers and nature lovers in Jeddah. Thousands of years old carved rocks add an unusual and charismatic touch to the region. Stargazing and camping are other not to be missed experiences at the valley
An incredible place for horror or adventure lovers in Jeddah, The Escape Hotel promises 60 minutes of hair-raising fun. The immersive ambiance and themed rooms offer a perfect setting to appeal to thrill-seekers. It houses an array of puzzle rooms, where you must piece together clues in order to find a way out of the room. The only purpose is Escape and the way out is to search through the room and solve the puzzle.
The Maze Box is one of the most thrilling escape rooms in Jeddah, offering something fresh, engaging storylines, and strategies to the experience. Be it your family, friends, or colleagues it is a place that has something for everyone above 16 years. It immerses you in innovative scenarios such as being captured during a military operation or being chased by a psychotic killer.
One of the calmest and most composed places in Jeddah, Al-Saif Beach is a lovely destination for family picnics, friends’ outings, or couples. Popular amongst locals and tourists alike, this public beach is popular for water adventures, swimming, and breathtaking seascapes. Its peaceful and calm atmosphere draws in a large number of tourists who like to spend some time amidst nature.
South Obhur Beach or Obhur Beach, located on the eastern coast of the Red Sea is one of the most amazing public beaches in Jeddah. Offering a perfect combination of fun and adventure, it is a fabulous destination to unwind or relax away from hectic daily life. It offers a diverse range of beach activities, as well as a plethora of cafes and eating establishments within walking distance.
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Jeddah Things To Do FAQs
What are the best things to do in Jeddah?
Admire the set of old buildings as you walk and feel enticed with the scents of herbs and spices being sold at the countless stalls at the largest souq in the country. Discover genuine Arabian items and carry them back with you as souvenirs.
Admire the traditional buildings constructed with coral stone and decorated with intricate latticed windows. Visit the open-air markets that are woven around small public squares to look for souvenirs and visit places like Bab al Makkah, or Makkah Gate, village majlis, Naseef House, Baeshen House, Suq Al Alawi, etc.
Cross the walkway to reach the Mosque, also known as the Floating Mosque, due to the white stilts that suspend it above the Red Sea water’s edge. Visit during high tide to watch the mosque glints in the sunlight and appears to float serenely over the waves below.
Feel excited to visit the Jeddah showroom of the bookstore that had 34 outlets inside Saudi Arabia and 40 in Saudi Arabia and GCC countries. Browse through the humongous collection of books and find out the ones which you would like to treasure.
Watch out for attractions such as the state-of-the-art gaming arcade, ice-skating rink, billiards arcade, climbing wall, etc. Do not miss out on watching the Musical Dancing Fountain with its 94 water effects choreographed over light and sound.
You may also opt to indulge in fun activities and enjoy a large variety of family attractions such as the Amazon or the Samba Tower. If you are looking for some adventure, go for the "Big 8" roller coaster which is the symbolic ride of the park.
Those looking for luxury shopping can go to Tahlia Street or one of the malls such as Mall of Arabia, Red Sea Mall, etc. You may also opt to visit other places such as Al Salam Mall, Corniche Commercial Center, etc. to shop for various items.
Stop in between to haggle for an item at the street stalls or grab a bite at one of the fast-food eateries or coffee shops. Opt for hiring a bike or a cycle if you plan to cover the whole 4.2 km stretch. Those looking for adventure can also sign up for a variety of water sports.
Experience the spirituality of the city by visiting the largest mosque of the city, King Saud Masjid with its impressive domes and tall minarets. Visit the modern take on the traditional place of worship at Sayidna Aisha Masjid and feel enthralled looking at the beautiful Floating Masjid on the coast of the Red Sea.
Visit this arch gateway monumental which is the entrance to Mecca and signifies a boundary beyond which non-Muslims cannot enter. Designated as a world heritage site, the ensemble of traditional buildings has now been converted to an open-air market where you will be able to shop for small items.
Some of the well-known galleries which you can visit include the Athr Gallery, Hafez Gallery, Darat Safeya Binzagr Gallery, The Saudi Centre for Fine Arts, Studio Hisham Binjabi, and Adham Art Center and Gallery.
Walk on the sand and watch the stars at night while sitting around the fire drinking Arabic coffee. Opt to check out the dunes on a quad bike, go for a sandboarding session or ride a camel before you settle in the camp for the night.
Some of the other dishes include Madfoon, Qursan, Saleeg, Jarish, etc. Few restaurants where you can find them include Byblos, Shawarma Shakir Aljazeera, and Mataam al Sharq. Those looking for fast food can try out beef burgers and waffles at Food Trucks Park or scarf down fried chicken at Al Baik.
Look out for the ramp installed in the house which was used for camel-mounted messengers to ride all the way to the upper terrace. Another special attraction is a huge tree on the left of the door which was the only tree in Jeddah till 1920.
Shop for both local and international brands under one roof and spend some time in the park outdoors where you can simply relax, dine or have a blast with family and friends. The mall is also the location of the Kidzania Jeddah, which is the edu-entertainment zone for kids.
What are the best adventure activities to do in Jeddah?
1. Visit the Fakieh Aquarium: One of the Things to do in Jeddah is to pay a visit to the only aquarium in Saudi Arabia, home to over 7000 exotic sea creatures of 200 species. Learn about the aquatic life found in the Red Sea as you visit this place and feel excited as you spot a variety of marine creatures such as the Red Sea Turtle and Red Dragon.
Walk through the acrylic tunnel that will allow you to watch the enchanting sea creatures swimming and floating all around.
Location: Next to Al Kurnaysh Rd, Al Nawras Jeddah 23413, Saudi Arabia
Timings: All days 10 am to 12 pm, Friday 1:30–11 pm
Price: SAR55 per person, Free entry for those under two years
2. Adrenaline Pumping Activity at Bounce Jeddah: One of the Fun Things to do in Jeddah is going to the Bounce Jeddah, the only park in Saudi Arabia, known for the trampoline activities that it offers to its visitors. Feel an adrenaline rush as you visit this playground which is full of trampolines. Level up your Freestyle moves in a safe and controlled environment as you express yourself on one of the trampolines.
Location: 13212 Khurais Branch Road, Al Rawdah District, Riyadh Saudi Arabia
Timings: Thursday & Friday: 4 PM to 12 PM, Other days: 2 PM to 10 PM
Price: SAR 65.00 to SAR 124.00
3. Fun-Filled Escape at MazeBox: Find your escape route as you form your team of two to eight friends and find yourself locked in a place. Select from the list of rooms available under categories such as Thriller, Mystery, or Horror and start this adrenaline rush activity. Venture into a maze of enigmas and escape from the maze before you run out of your time.
Location: 7900 Hanzalah Al Abshamey, AZ Zahra District, Jeddah 23425 3993, Saudi Arabia
Timings: 5:30 pm to 11:55 pm
Price: Starting from SAR91 per person
4. Amusement Park Visit: One of the Fun Things to do in Jeddah is to visit one of the leading theme parks in Jeddah. Plan to visit Shallal Park where you can go for activities such as Samba Tower, Amazon, and also Big 8. Have fun at the IN10SO by indulging in Go Karting, bowling, and other games.
Feel excited visiting Atallah Happy Land Park, known for featuring the maximum number of rides in Saudi Arabia. Have fun at Jungle Land Theme Park, the biggest amusement park in the country.
5. Experience an Aerial Thrill: Enjoy the stunning view of the city of Jeddah as you fly over the Jeddah Corniche. Embark on a flying tandem either on a paramotor or on a gyrocopter and soar up in the air. Try going on a discovery flight where you are accompanied by a trained professional who will guide you through the process and also ensure your safety.
Location: King Abdul Aziz Road, Al Mohammadiyyah, Jeddah 23616
Timings: 6 am to 10 am; 4 pm to 6 pm
6. Go Fishing at Jeddah Corniche: Going for a fishing experience is one of the Things to do in Jeddah, a city that was initially a small fishing settlement. Jeddah’s 4.2-kilometer Corniche is a coastal waterfront area where you can indulge in a fishing activity.
Take the help of experienced fishermen who will take you in their boats to the best spots to get you hooked up. The boats have special features such as navigational electronics, safety gear and have a live bait tank, a fighting chair, and a cooler for your catch and will help you catch more fish. Have fun catching fishes such as Coral Trout, Sailfish, Wrasse, Giant Trevally, Barracuda, and all kinds of Groupers.
Location : Red Sea, Corniche, Jeddah
Timings: Starts at 8 am
Price: SAR 2438.33 per group of 4 people for an 8-hour long trip
7. Immersive Virtual Reality: Immerse in the world of Virtual Reality gaming where you will be able to experience being in a three-dimensional environment and will be able to interact with the environment while the game is in progress.
Have fun as you choose from over 30 experiences in Virtual Reality from room-scale VR to car sims, from Virtuix Omnis to consoles, and participate in action or adventure games.
Location: 8681 Amir Sultan Street, Al Khayyat Mall, Rawdah District, Jeddah
Timings: Not Mentioned
Price: Starts from SAR 35 per person for 15 mins
8. Scuba diving: One of the exciting things to do in Jeddah is to go on a scuba dive in the Red Sea. Explore ancient shipwrecks under the water and go near uninhabited desert islands that are surrounded by stunning technicolor reefs.
Feel enchanted as you explore the underwater world and watch schools of rays, moray eels, clownfishes, and much more swimming around you. You might also get the opportunity to get a glimpse of the majestic whale shark — the largest fish in the ocean. Ideal water temperatures, excellent year-round visibility, and very few currents are sure to make your experience a wonderful one.
Location: Nemo and Sharm Obhur, Abu Tair, Abu Faramish & Jebel Al Lith
Timings: 9 AM to 9 PM
Price: SAR 75 per person
9. Snorkeling: Another one of exciting things to do in Jeddah is to go on a snorkeling experience in the Red Sea. Sink into the crystal clear waters of the sea to get a glimpse of the underwater at various snorkeling sites. Enjoy visibility up to 30 meters, with coral gardens, wrecks, underwater canyons, and a plethora of fish.
Be taken to the sites and feel enchanted watching beautiful coral reefs, colorful fishes, and other exotic sea creatures in their natural habitat. Feel thrilled as you visit the ship wreckage site and look at whitetip sharks, goatfish, and blue-spotted rays.
Location : Al-Suhaifah, Jeddah 22237, Saudi Arabia
Timings : 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM (Morning) & 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM (Evening)
Price: SAR 735 for a group of 4 people
10. Horseback Riding: One of the Fun Things to do in Jeddah for horse lovers and enthusiasts is to indulge in a horseback riding experience. Indulge in a 30-minute ride under the supervision of an experienced coach and roam around the ranch on horseback. Feel excited as the horse gallops forward and takes you along with it.
Location: Breiman - Highway, Jeddah
Timings: Open daily except Saturday from 04:00 pm - 11:00 am
Price: SAR 139 for a 30-minute horse ride for 1 adult and 30-minute for 1 child
Which are the places for adventure activities in Jeddah?
What is the best time to visit Jeddah?
What is Jeddah known for?
What can we do in Jeddah for 2 days?
There are several places which you can visit in Jeddah in 2 days. An ideal itinerary for 2 days would be as follows:
Day 1: Visit places such as Jeddah Corniche, the floating mosque, the Tayyibat Museum, and go for a Cruise.
Day 2: Visit Jeddah Flagpole, Al-Balad, Jeddah, Jeddah Tower, and King Fahd's Fountain.
