Jetset in Jeddah: Four Reasons to Visit Saudi’s ‘Bride of the Red Sea’

Once one of the most pivotal ports for trade and transport along the Indian Ocean by way of the Red Sea, the Saudi coastal city of Jeddah has witnessed a renaissance like no other. Now one of the largest cities in the Kingdom, Jeddah has become a substantial touristic destination, with both ultra-luxury amenities and relics of history that remain untouched in their splendour. 

Streamlined visa options now aplenty—including tourism, Umrah and transit visas, as well as e-visas available for citizens of over 66 countries—exploring Jeddah has never been easier for travellers from around the world. With the ‘Jeddah Downton’ project underway, which would cover over 5.7 million square metres, the Red Sea city is set to be home to further global attractions, including an opera house, a museum, a sports stadium, oceanic ponds and coral farms. 

With international festivals and events making their way to the rapidly evolving city, SceneTraveller brings you the top four things to do in the ‘Red Sea City that never sleeps’, giving you a taste of both its history and its future... 

Bring a Few Travel Gifts Home After Umrah

When one heads to Makkah to perform Umrah, it’s customary for family members to ask for all sorts of gifts from the Kingdom—from luxury prayer rugs all the way to a brand new wardrobe. 

With no shortage of luxury malls and traditional shopping districts, Jeddah isn’t just the best place to fulfil these filial duties, it’s also the ideal post-Umrah retreat for some retail adventures. 

Spike Your Adrenaline at the Saudi Arabian Formula 1 Grand Prix 

If you’re one to seek out adventures of the adrenaline-rush variety, then snagging a front row seat at the Saudi Arabian Formula 1 Grand Prix is an adventure travel must. 

A main highlight of the Saudi Winter Program, the Formula 1 Grand Prix at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit is hailed as the “fastest street circuit in Formula 1”. It’s also where you can have a premier view of the most intense racing action in the world with the Red Sea as the background. 

With stellar entertainment lineups usually on the itinerary—Justin Bieber himself once took the Grand Prix stage—this one is not to be missed. 

Fancy Yourself an Artist for the Day at Jameel District 

Located in the northern Jeddah area of Al Mohammadiyyah, Jameel District—or Hayy Jameel—is the Kingdom’s dedicated home for the arts. 

Hosting seasonal art exhibitions, workshops, and cultural events across a 17,000-square-metre space, Hayy Jameel is where you can tap into your own creativity while being surrounded by the artistry of traditional craftsmen. 

Travel Back in Time With Historic Jeddah 

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the historic Jeddah district—otherwise known as ‘Al Balad’—dates back to the seventh century. Today, it still looks the part. 

With a distinct architectural aesthetic no longer found in the Kingdom, Jeddah Al Balad now houses art galleries and specialty cafés, transforming into a modern hub that retains its age-old charm.