Jeddah is more than just a gateway to Mecca and Medina. It’s a vibrant city on the Red Sea coast of Saudi Arabia, alive with history, modern attractions, and rich Saudi culture. Whether you’re wandering the old town, diving into turquoise waters, or sipping coffee by the corniche, Jeddah offers something for everyone.
But what are the best things to do in Jeddah? Many visitors ask, Is Jeddah worth visiting? The answer is a big yes. This city combines heritage with modern comforts, making it one of the most exciting destinations in the Middle East. From the historic Jeddah Al Balad to the futuristic shopping malls, Jeddah is full of surprises.
Below, we’ll walk through the top 10 things to do in Jeddah—balancing culture, fun, food, and seaside adventures.
1. Explore Al Balad – The Historic Heart of Jeddah
The Al Balad district, also known as Historic Jeddah, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This old town is where the city’s story began centuries ago. Its streets are lined with coral-stone buildings, traditional wooden balconies, and shops that have been around for generations. Walking here feels like stepping back in time.
Tourists often wonder, What is Jeddah best known for? The answer usually points to Al Balad. It’s famous for its heritage houses, narrow alleyways, and bustling markets. Locals gather in the evenings, and you’ll find small cafes serving Arabic coffee, fresh dates, and traditional sweets.
A tip: visit just before sunset when the streets come alive with families, shops, and glowing lanterns.
Pros & Cons of Visiting Al Balad
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Rich history and culture | Can get crowded in evenings |
Affordable restaurants and shops | Summer heat makes daytime walks tough |
Great for photos | Some areas under restoration |
2. Visit the Floating Mosque on the Red Sea
Known officially as the Al Rahma Mosque, this site is often called the Floating Mosque because it appears to sit on the sea itself. Built on stilts over the Red Sea, it’s one of the most famous attractions in Jeddah.
Non-Muslims often ask, Can tourists go to Jeddah? Can non-Muslims visit Jeddah’s mosques? The city is indeed open to tourists now, though non-Muslims cannot enter prayer halls. Still, they can admire the architecture from outside, take photos, and enjoy the serene location.
The mosque is especially beautiful at sunset when its white marble glows pink against the sea. It’s also a peaceful spot in the morning before the crowds arrive.
3. Relax Along the Red Sea Corniche
If you want to feel the city’s modern vibe, the Jeddah Corniche is the place. Stretching along the coast, this area mixes seaside parks, walking paths, cafes, and sculptures. It’s a favorite for locals, families, and groups of friends.
The corniche is also where you’ll find some of Jeddah’s best restaurants, from international chains to spots serving fresh seafood. Many visitors say the best time to go is at night, when the air is cooler and the city lights sparkle across the water.
If you’re hoping to see a perfect sunset, this is the spot. Just grab a seat by the sea with a cup of coffee and let the view do the work.
4. Discover Historic Jeddah Museums
Beyond Al Balad, Jeddah is home to museums that protect its heritage. The Abdul Raouf Khalil Museum is one of the most famous, housing artifacts that tell stories of the kingdom, the wider Arabia, and even influences from Jordan and beyond.
Walking inside feels like flipping through the stories of trade routes, Islamic history, and traditional art. These museums serve as a reminder of how Saudi culture developed into what it is today.
It’s one of the best things to do in Jeddah if you’re looking for something educational yet fun for children and families.
5. Watch the King Fahd Fountain at Night
Standing proudly on the Red Sea coast, the King Fahd Fountain is Jeddah’s most iconic landmark and the tallest of its kind in the world. Located along the corniche, it shoots water over 300 meters into the sky, visible from most places in the city. When you google Jeddah, this fountain is one of the first images you’ll see.
The fountain is at its most magical after dark. Spotlights turn the jet into a glowing pillar against the night sky. People often compare it to attractions in Riyadh, but locals insist nothing compares to this historical Jeddah symbol.
It’s free, family-friendly, and a perfect stop for any person visiting Jeddah. Whether you’re with friends or enjoying a quiet evening coffee by the sea, this attraction keeps the city alive while helping to protect Jeddah’s cultural pride.
6. Try Scuba Diving in the Red Sea
Adventure lovers shouldn’t miss scuba diving in Jeddah. The Red Sea, located just off the coast, is home to coral reefs, exotic fish, and even dolphins. For many women and men travelers, diving is one of the most exciting ways to see Jeddah from a new perspective.
Certified operators guide you to the safest dive sites, both north and south of the city. Beginners can try snorkeling or shallow reef dives, while advanced divers can explore deeper wrecks. Some even offer swimming excursions for families who don’t want to dive fully.
When people google Jeddah tourism websites, diving is often listed among the top recommendations. It’s a reminder that Jeddah isn’t only about historical streets it’s also a vibrant, international destination beneath the waves.
7. Shop and Dine in Jeddah’s Modern Malls
If the old town shows the past, malls show Jeddah’s modern life. Shopping centers like Red Sea Mall and Mall of Arabia are located across the city, from the north to central districts, making them easy to access from most places.
Inside, you’ll find international brands, cinemas, and themed play zones for children. Women especially enjoy the mix of traditional boutiques and high-fashion stores. Dining is equally diverse, with everything from local dishes to luxury restaurants.
Compared with Riyadh, Jeddah’s malls feel more coastal and relaxed, offering a balance of fun, food, and shopping. If you check a tourism website or simply google Jeddah shopping, these malls always top the list. They also help protect Jeddah’s role as a major tourism hub in the kingdom.
8. Walk the Old Town Streets Beyond Al Balad
If the old town shows the past, malls show Jeddah’s modern life. Shopping centers like Red Sea Mall and Mall of Arabia are located across the city, from the north to central districts, making them easy to access from most places.
Inside, you’ll find international brands, cinemas, and themed play zones for children. Women especially enjoy the mix of traditional boutiques and high-fashion stores. Dining is equally diverse, with everything from local dishes to luxury restaurants.
Compared with Riyadh, Jeddah’s malls feel more coastal and relaxed, offering a balance of fun, food, and shopping. If you check a tourism website or simply google Jeddah shopping, these malls always top the list. They also help protect Jeddah’s role as a major tourism hub in the kingdom.
9. Experience Saudi Arabian Culture Through Food and Coffee
Food and drink are deeply tied to Saudi culture, and Jeddah brings that culture to life. You’ll find traditional dishes like kabsa alongside global cuisine. Shawarma stalls line the streets, while fine-dining restaurants offer views of the Red Sea.
Arabic coffee, spiced with cardamom, is a must-try. It’s a social ritual shared by women, men, and families, often paired with dates. Modern cafes combine heritage with trendy design, making them the perfect place to relax at night.
On any website about the best things to do in Jeddah, food always ranks high. When you google Jeddah cuisine, you’ll see endless recommendations because dining reflects both taste and tradition.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time person visiting the city, sampling local food connects you directly to the historical roots that protect Jeddah’s identity.
10. Enjoy Art, Nightlife, and Events by the Sea
In recent years, Jeddah has opened up to more global influences. The city now hosts global events, art shows, and cultural festivals. The Jeddah Season festival, for example, turns the city into a hub of fun with concerts, food markets, and performances.
Walking along the corniche at night, you’ll find live music, street art, and light shows. Compared to other parts of the kingdom, Jeddah feels more relaxed and welcoming for tourism.
It’s a reminder that Jeddah isn’t just about history it’s about staying alive and present in the modern world.
Conclusion
So, Is Jeddah worth visiting? Absolutely. Whether you want to explore historic Jeddah Al Balad, admire the Floating Mosque, or dive into the Red Sea, the best things to do in Jeddah mix the old and the new.
This city offers many activities—from shopping and cafes to museums and nightlife. It’s not just another stop in Saudi Arabia; it’s a destination full of heritage, fun, and unforgettable experiences.
For tourists asking, Can non-Muslims visit Jeddah?—yes, the city welcomes everyone now. And for those wondering, What is Jeddah best known for?—it’s known for being both historic and modern, a place where the Red Sea coast meets timeless Arabia.
If you’re planning a trip, expect warmth, hospitality, and plenty of reasons to come back.
