Jeddah Hejaz, Saudi Arabia Travel Guide
Jeddah's cuisine absorbed influences from the Levant, Egypt, Yemen, and India, alongside traditional Bedouin and Najdi dishes. This fusion results from its historical role as a bustling port city. The city's food culture is known for rich spices, abundant fresh seafood, and generous portion sizes, reflecting Arabian hospitality.
Rice and wheat serve as staples. Lamb, chicken, and fresh Red Sea fish constitute main protein sources. Dates appear widely. Spices like cardamom, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and saffron add depth and aroma.
Guests often receive dates and traditional Arabic coffee as a welcoming gesture. Accept these gracefully.
Some traditional dishes are eaten with the right hand. Dishes are frequently large and designed for sharing among family and friends.
Some traditional restaurants may have "family sections" and "singles sections". During Ramadan, eating, drinking, and smoking in public are prohibited from dawn to sunset.
Slow-cooked lamb or chicken served over fragrant, spiced basmati rice, sometimes garnished with raisins or nuts. Widely available in specialized Mandi restaurants.
Yemeni origin, a Saudi staple.
A creamy, rice-based dish cooked with milk or broth, served with roasted or boiled chicken or lamb. A specialty of the Hejaz region.
A savory porridge-like dish.
Considered a national dish, combining rice with meat (chicken, lamb, or camel), vegetables, and an unique blend of spices. Many regional variations exist and it is widely available.
A national favorite.
Arabic Coffee (Gahwa) is lightly roasted coffee with cardamom, served with dates. Karak Tea is a strong black tea brewed with milk, sugar, and spices.
Dates are a staple. Luqaimat (fried dough balls with syrup) and Kunafa (sweet cheese pastry) are popular desserts.
Jeddah features numerous upscale restaurants, often located within luxury hotels or along Tahlia Street. They present international cuisines like Italian, Japanese, French, and Lebanese, alongside modern Saudi fusion dishes. These provide sophisticated dining experiences with refined service and ambiance.
Abundant mid-range dining options dot the city. These include local chains, independent eateries, and international casual dining restaurants. They offer comfortable dining experiences with varied menus. Jeddah's multicultural population ensures a diverse range of international cuisines, including Lebanese, Indian, and American.
Al-Balad offers the best area for authentic, budget-friendly street food and traditional local restaurants. Small, independent "bukhari" restaurants provide delicious and inexpensive meals. The Central Fish Market allows you to select fresh seafood and have it cooked on-site.
Growing options for vegetarians and vegans exist. Middle Eastern and Indian restaurants offer falafel, hummus, foul, and vegetable curries.
Clearly specify "no meat" or "no chicken." For veganism, focus on avoiding all animal products.
Awareness of gluten-free diets and allergies is increasing, especially in higher-end restaurants.
Inquire about ingredients.
Hands-on Saudi or Hejazi cooking lessons.
Sample street food and traditional dishes in Al-Balad.
Often during Jeddah Season or public holidays.
Floating restaurants or traditional Hejazi house dining.
Awareness of gluten-free diets and other common food allergies is increasing, specifically in higher-end restaurants and international hotel dining.
For severe allergies, carrying an allergy card translated into Arabic is helpful. Always inquire about ingredients.
Translation apps, like Google Translate, help communicate your dietary needs. Online forums or specialized apps, like HappyCow, list restaurants catering to specific requirements.
Some private tour operators or cultural centers offer hands-on Saudi or Hejazi cooking classes. Food tours, notably in Al-Balad, focus on sampling street food and traditional dishes.
Rooftop dining in high-rise buildings has stunning cityscapes, especially at night.
Some private tour operators or cultural centers may offer hands-on Saudi or Hejazi cooking classes. These provide a practical way to learn about local ingredients and preparation methods.
Opportunities for direct farm visits within Jeddah are limited. However, some eco-tourism initiatives outside the city might offer experiences related to food production, like date palm farms.
Food festivals and culinary events often take place during Jeddah Season or other public holidays.
Culinary experiences in Jeddah offer deep connections to local culture and traditions.
Engage with locals and learn about their heritage through food.
From unique settings to traditional dishes, dining in Jeddah creates lasting memories.
Capture the scenes and delicious flavors.
Jeddah’s dining scene caters to all tastes and budgets, from street food to fine dining.
Local cuisine features fresh seafood, aromatic spices, and staple grains.
Be aware of local dining customs, including hospitality and gender segregation in some venues.
Always check restaurant hours, especially during Ramadan. Modern restaurants typically offer mixed seating, while traditional places might have separate family sections.
