Hejaz, Saudi Arabia
Jeddah’s unique location between the Red Sea and the Arabian Desert provides a natural playground for various outdoor adventures.
Short, easy walks are possible in desert areas outside the city. Organized tours for more scenic hikes to desert wadis or rock formations.
Excursions into the nearby desert with experienced drivers in 4x4 vehicles over sand dunes. Safaris often include camel rides and sandboarding.
Available in designated desert areas through various tour operators, offering an exhilarating way to explore sandy terrain.
Always bring ample water and wear appropriate footwear for desert conditions. Plan any desert camping through a reputable tour operator for safety and local insights. Extreme heat can present a challenge for outdoor activities during summer months.
Jeddah offers various avenues for cultural immersion, allowing you to connect deeply with Saudi traditions and contemporary artistic expressions.
Witness traditional Saudi folk dances like Al-Ardha (sword dance) or Mizmar (drum dance) at cultural events or Jeddah Season festival.
Look for tours that directly support local businesses in Al-Balad, offering intimate insights into daily life, traditional crafts, and local stories.
Jeddah Season, an annual entertainment and cultural festival, features concerts, art exhibitions, culinary events, and traditional performances.
Jeddah provides options for relaxation and wellness, from luxurious spa treatments to peaceful strolls along the coast.
Jeddah's entertainment scene offers a variety of options, from live music to late-night cafes, reflecting its cultural values and modern outlook.
Jeddah offers a shopping experience, from bustling traditional souks to high-end luxury boutiques.
Jeddah provides options for relaxation and wellness, from luxurious spa treatments to peaceful strolls along the coast.
Some private studios or wellness centers in Jeddah offer yoga and meditation classes.
Many upscale hotels and resorts offer day passes to their private beaches, swimming pools, and exclusive beach clubs.
Traditional remedies and herbal medicines exist in some local souks. Exercise discretion regarding their scientific efficacy.
Experience world-class spa treatments in luxurious hotel settings.
Unwind at private beach clubs and enjoy the refreshing Red Sea waters.
Explore yoga and meditation classes for inner peace.
Jeddah's entertainment scene offers a variety of options, from live music to late-night cafes, reflecting its cultural values and modern outlook.
Numerous cafes remain open late for socializing, coffee, tea, and desserts. Shisha lounges are popular for smoking flavored tobacco.
Many malls feature large entertainment centers with arcades, bowling, and other activities suitable for families and groups, often open late.
Walking along the Jeddah Corniche in the cooler evening hours is a popular late-night activity. Shopping malls and restaurants also stay open late.
Alcohol is prohibited in Saudi Arabia. Traditional nightclubs, as found in Western countries, do not exist. Hotel lounges or private venues may feature DJs and non-alcoholic "mocktail" bars.
This annual, multi-week entertainment and cultural festival typically runs during the summer months. It features a wide array of activities, concerts, and performances.
Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are major Islamic holidays featuring family gatherings, special foods, and public celebrations across the city.
Public displays of affection are not customary. Dress modestly when enjoying nightlife, especially for women.
Jeddah offers a shopping experience, from bustling traditional souks to high-end luxury boutiques.
Jeddah's premier shopping destination with high-end fashion boutiques, international luxury brands, and designer stores.
One of the largest malls, featuring a wide array of international and local brands, entertainment, and dining.
Mall of Arabia, Jeddah Park, and Arabian Mall offer diverse retail outlets from fashion to electronics.
The local currency is the Saudi Riyal (SAR). Credit cards are widely accepted in malls and larger establishments. Carry some cash for smaller souk purchases or street food vendors.
