The Best Places To Vist in Jeddah

Al-Balad

Al-Balad is known as Jeddah’s Historic District, though its name translates more literally as ‘the town’. This is the old centre of the fast-developing city, and is itself in the midst of a multibillion-dollar restoration that should only enhance its status as one of Saudi Arabia’s eight Unesco World Heritage Sites. Look out for its traditional houses with latticed windows and balconies. With government approval now granted, a select few of the area’s many historic buildings will eventually become luxury hotels.

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King Fahd Fountain

King Fahd ruled Saudi for over two decades, guiding the country into the 21st century. Built at the beginning of his reign, the fountain that bears his name has become a spectacular icon of Jeddah. The highest of its kind in the world, it can send jets of water more than 250m into the air. Illuminated at night, it can be seen all around the city, with guests of the InterContinental and the Ritz-Carlton enjoying up-close views 24/7. 

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Fakieh Aquarium

Saudi Arabia’s only public aquarium doesn’t just draw from the Red Sea. Its inclusive roster of residents is drawn from oceans across the globe. It currently features sharks, sea horses, rays, dolphins, sea lions and mesmerising jellyfish, with sea dragons reportedly on their way. The sea lions perform daily shows for visitors who will be able to swim with the dolphins starting this year.

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Jeddah Corniche

Officially, the Jeddah Corniche runs for almost 20 miles along the waterfront of the Red Sea. Along the route of this coastal road, there are sandy beaches for swimming off, an F1 racing circuit, King Fahd’s Fountain, Fakieh Aquarium, the Al-Rahmah Mosque and many of Jeddah’s big-name hotels. Despite its length, the Corniche is made for strolling, especially on warm evenings, when locals and visitors emerge for a Middle Eastern take on the classic Italian ‘passeggiata’.

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Yacht Club

With a sail-and-boom-shaped clubhouse, Jeddah’s Yacht Club is proud of its primary raison d’être. But it doesn’t just serve those who moor their superyachts in the Marina; it has become a gathering point for those arriving into town by more conventional means. Within the clubhouse, celeb chef Jason Atherton opened the Marina Social restaurant in 2024, plus there’s a beach club, a cigar lounge, and high-end fitness facilities. Nearby, the Boardwalk is also worth knowing for its array of cafés and international restaurants. 

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Zawiya97

Zawiya97 is a thoroughly contemporary proposition in the heart of ancient Al Balad. The overriding ambition is to preserve and promote traditional Saudi crafts. In practice, that means a community kitchen serving old Hejazi favourites, an art gallery showcasing the work of local artists, and an ongoing series of cultural nights and talks. Keep an eye out too for hands-on activities and workshops. 

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