11 Things To Do In Jeddah (Saudi Arabia): Full Guide With Activities, Stays, Restaurants, And More!
Jeddah is the tourist hub of Saudi Arabia. It’s a coastal city on the west side of the country and it’s full of surprises, with a fascinating blend of history and modern development.
We went there in November for 2 whirlwind days. We packed in a LOT and loved it, but ended up absolutely exhausted (worth it, though!).
Honestly, we recommend giving yourself 3–4 days to properly enjoy this place.
It’s got historical landmarks like Al-Balad (the 1,400 year-old town centre), vibrant coral reefs in the Red Sea… and even the world’s tallest fountain!
At the same time, Jeddah is a key part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 reforms.
These reforms aim to make the country more accessible to international tourists, creating a safe and welcoming environment for visitors! For example, women don’t have to wear hijabs.
This means that there’s no shortage of things to do in Jeddah! So this guide will help you plan your visit with activities, best stays, where to eat, what to pack, and more.
Table of Contents
But first… travel essentials for Jeddah
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11 Epic things to do in Jeddah
Jeddah has some awesome tourist attractions to check out:
1) Old Town (Al-Balad)
Al-Balad is the historic heart of Jeddah, famous for its mud-brick buildings and wooden lattice windows. It’s 1,400 years old and became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014!
It’s a great place for a stroll, with narrow streets leading to souqs (street markets) selling spices, textiles, and traditional goods.
The area is free to visit, though you may want to bring cash for the souqs! It’s best to go in the evening, as there’s more of a bustling vibe.
While you’re there, don’t miss Naseef House, a local history museum with exhibitions to learn more about Jeddah’s heritage.
🤩 Visit Al-Balad’s historic landmarks, from ancient merchant houses to lively bazaars, and learn about its role as Jeddah’s original town centre: Historical & Heritage Tour in Jeddah Al Balad
2) Floating Mosque
The Al-Rahma Mosque, also known as the Floating Mosque, is a beautiful marble mosque built on stilts! When the tide is high, it looks like it’s hovering above the Red Sea.
The mosque is open to the public except during prayer times. Entry is free, but you’ll need to dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered). It’s especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset.
3) Stroll Along the Jeddah Corniche
The Jeddah Corniche is a 30-kilometre waterfront with parks, sculptures, and walking paths. It’s a great spot for a bike ride, a picnic, or a stroll along the Red Sea.
There are food vendors and play areas for kids scattered throughout. The Corniche is free to visit and open all day, but it’s busiest in the evenings when the temperature drops.
The North Corniche is the most scenic stretch, and it’s near Al-Rahmah Mosque.
4) Snorkel or dive the Red Sea
The Red Sea has beautiful coral reefs and heaps of marine life – perfect for snorkelling! There are also epic diving sites like the Bayadah Islands or Obhur Creek.
You can arrange snorkelling or diving trips with several local operators! Most of them depart in the morning and provide all the gear you need.
🤩 Take a boat trip from Jeddah to Bayadah Island, where you can swim, sunbathe, and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea: Jeddah: Bayadah Island Boat Trip with Snorkeling Option
5) TeamLab Museum
TeamLab Jeddah is a digital art space that has interactive, light-based installations – it’s epic!
You walk through rooms with shifting colours and patterns that react as you move. It’s fun, unique, and worth seeing if you’re looking for something a bit different.
Exhibits rotate, so it’s a good idea to check online before you go. Tickets can sell out fast, especially on weekends! You can get them here.
6) Hike Moon Valley
Moon Valley is a rugged desert landscape about an hour from Jeddah. The whole area looks as if you were hiking on the Moon, hence the name!
It’s a great spot for hiking, with craggy peaks and trails that reward you with stunning sunset views.
The hike is free to explore, but it’s best to go with a guide if you’re unfamiliar with the area!
🤩 Trek across Moon Valley’s rocky terrain, climb to a scenic viewpoint, and relax with snacks and coffee as you take in the desert sunset: 4 Hours Charming Moon Valley Hike Experience in Jeddah
7) King Fahad’s Fountain
This fountain isn’t just big—it’s massive. It shoots water 300 metres into the air and is hard to miss if you’re anywhere along the Corniche. At night, it’s lit up, which makes it even more impressive.
You can get a good view from most parts of the Corniche, but if you want a quieter spot, try the South Corniche parks!
Head there after sunset when it’s cooler and the lights are on. Bring snacks or grab dinner nearby – it’s a great way to wind down in the evening.
8) Enjoy a beach day
Jeddah has some beautiful beaches with calm, clear waters. They’re perfect for a day out by the sea!
Some public beaches like Obhur Beach are free to enter. They’re a good choice if you’re on a budget but get there early, especially on weekends – they can get crowded and parking can be difficult.
There are private beaches too, in resorts. The most popular are Indigo Beach, Silver Sands Beach, and La Plage. They’re best if you’re after a bit more comfort.
Pack water shoes if you’re heading to a public beach, some areas are rocky.
9) Check out the Tayebat Museum
The Tayebat Museum is a must-visit for history buffs.
It features ancient artifacts, exhibits on Islamic art, and a detailed look at Jeddah’s heritage. One highlight is the recreated traditional Saudi village, which offers a glimpse into the region’s past.
The museum is open in the mornings and evenings, all week except Sundays. Tickets are sold at the entrance, bring cash just in case to pay for it!
10) Visit Fakieh Aquarium
Fakieh Aquarium is a great place to see marine life up close. You’ll find sharks, rays, and tropical fish, along with daily dolphin and sea lion shows (check showtimes when you arrive).
The aquarium is compact but well-organized, making it a quick and fun activity.
It’s open daily for most of the day, and it’s located on the Corniche, so it’s easy to combine with nearby attractions.
Buy tickets online to avoid queues, especially on weekends! You can do it here.
11) Explore Red Sea Mall
Red Sea Mall is Jeddah’s go-to spot for shopping and entertainment. It’s massive, and you’ll find international brands, restaurants, a cinema, and a kids’ play area.
It’s open daily, but parking can get busy during peak times, so aim for earlier in the day if you’re driving!
When is the best time to visit Jeddah?
The best time to visit Jeddah is during the cooler months, from November to February. We went in November and 100% recommend it.
The weather is great (30°C max) which is comfortable for outdoor activities like exploring Al-Balad, strolling the Corniche, or snorkelling in the Red Sea. Plus, evenings are cooler and perfect for relaxing by the water.
There’s also a low chance of sandstorms, compared to the hotter months.
The summer months (May to September) are the worst time to visit, though. It gets extremely hot, with temperatures beyond 40°C. We don’t recommend visiting then, it will be hard to do outdoor activities!
What to pack for Jeddah?
Jeddah uses Type G power sockets (the same as the UK). Check if you need a converter for your electronics.
While cards are widely accepted, having some Saudi Riyals for souqs and smaller vendors is useful.
Also, make sure to pack lightweight clothing – breathable fabrics like cotton or linen are ideal for Jeddah’s warm climate. Stick to loose, modest clothing to respect local customs.
Packing advice for women
Pack clothes that covers the legs and shoulders. There’s no need to wear a hijab most of the time, unless you’re going to a more traditional or religious place. Pack a scarf for this just in case!
You can wear jeans, just make sure they’re not too tight. Long skirts, trousers, or dresses that cover your shoulders are great ideas.
We recommend that if you want to go to the beach, better go to private ones – you can swim in a bikini there.
Packing advice for men
Men can wear short-sleeved shirts and long pants. You can also wear shorts, but be careful with the length – never over the knees.
In private beaches or resorts, swimwear is acceptable.
How to get to Jeddah from Australia
There are no direct flights from Australia to Jeddah, so you’ll need to transit through hubs in the Middle East or Asia – usually Dubai, Doha, or Singapore.
Flights typically take around 18–24 hours, depending on your layover time. You’ll land at King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED), which is about a 30-minute drive from Jeddah city centre.
We recommend using this tool to find the best flight deals!
Visa requirements for Australians
Australians need a visa to visit Saudi Arabia, but the process is straightforward as you can apply for it online in the Saudi eVisa portal.
We always use this travel insurance provider, 100% recommended!
The requirements include having a passport valid for 6 months after your date of entry, as well as travel insurance.
Once the eVisa is approved, you’ll receive it by email. Print a copy to carry with you, just in case!
How many days to stay in Jeddah?
Stay at least 2 days in Jeddah, preferably 3-4 to fully explore the city and the nearby attractions.
Best stays in Jeddah
Jeddah is the main tourist hub of Saudi Arabia, so there are plenty of places to stay at. Here are some suggestions:
Best budget-friendly stay: Ibis Jeddah City Center. Great location and is very luxe for the price! Has a pool, terrace, a fitness centre… Great for couples.
Best mid-range stay: Andalus Habitat Hotel. This is a 4-star hotel with an excellent location, too. It’s great for families and groups, as there are rooms for up to 7!
Best luxury: Swissotel Living Jeddah. It’s Swissotel Living so it’s hard to get more luxurious than that! Guests rave about the comfy beds.
If none of these fill your needs, go here to look for more accommodation options in Jeddah!
Where to eat in Jeddah?
Jeddah boasts a vibrant culinary scene with several epic restaurants, such as:
- Sarmad Restaurant ($$) offers a diverse selection of Middle Eastern dishes in a roomy dining space adorned with traditional decor. It’s a great spot for enjoying authentic regional flavours in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
- San Carlo Cicchetti ($$) This stylish Italian spot in Jeddah serves Venetian-style small plates, perfect for sharing. The elegant setting and authentic flavours bring a taste of Italy to the city.
- Khayal Restaurant ($$) This popular Turkish spot in Jeddah is known for its generous portions, grilled meats, fresh bread, and traditional mezze. The lively atmosphere makes it a great choice for an authentic Turkish meal.
- Ghazal Restaurant ($$) offers a diverse menu featuring Lebanese, Italian, and international cuisine in a roomy, family-friendly atmosphere. With a dedicated kids’ play area, shisha, and live music, it’s a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a great meal.
- Bursa Iskender ($$$) This spot is known for its authentic Iskender kebab—tender döner meat over pide bread with tomato sauce, melted butter, and yogurt. Great choice for those craving traditional Turkish flavours in a cosy setting.
Top Tips
You cannot drink alcohol anywhere in Saudi Arabia. Tourists can get deported if they’re found consuming it.
Also, public displays of affection are frowned upon.
Finally, please keep in mind that, although it’s a beautiful country with lovely people, sadly they have strict laws regarding LGBTQ+ rights. If you’re part of the community, be extra careful and avoid attracting unwanted attention.
Did you know?
Jeddah is known as the “Gateway to Mecca.”
For centuries, it has been the main entry point for millions of Muslim pilgrims arriving by sea or air for Hajj and Umrah.
King Abdulaziz International Airport even has a dedicated terminal for pilgrims, making it one of the busiest hubs during Hajj season.
FAQs
Is Jeddah worth visiting?
Yes, Jeddah is worth visiting for its unique mix of history, culture, and coastal charm. From exploring Al-Balad to snorkelling in the Red Sea, it’s a city that offers something special for every traveller.
The bottom line
And that’s a wrap on the best things to do in Jeddah!
Start your adventure in Al-Balad, snorkel in the Red Sea, and don’t miss sights like the Floating Mosque or King Fahad’s Fountain.
Whether you’re soaking in the views along the Corniche or exploring the Tayebat Museum, this bustling city has something for everyone.
So, pack your bags and visit Saudi Arabia. You won’t regret it!
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