From its bustling souks and historic districts to the sleek skyscrapers that punctuate the skyline, Jeddah beckons travelers with promises of exploration and a unique blend of Arabian charm and modernity. Here are the top 10 things you can do during your next getaway in the Red Sea city.
1. Enjoy a 360 panoramic view of the Red Sea at Rosewood Jeddah.
In the heart of Jeddah, Rosewood offers a breathtaking setting with floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing unparalleled views of the Red Sea coastline and the vibrant cityscape. Tailored for discerning travelers seeking a five-star experience, Rosewood Jeddah boasts 127 rooms and suites featuring cutting-edge entertainment and thoughtful amenities.
Imagine spending your entire day soaking in the mesmerizing views, especially from the expansive sky lounge and pool, strategically positioned for you to relax while gazing at the sparkling blue ocean. Rosewood’s pool and gym facilities cater to both women and men.
If a personal butler is a must-have for your holiday, look no further. Rosewood’s butler service goes beyond the basics, covering everything from check-in and packing to concierge services and in-room spa treatments. The real magic happens with bespoke tour-planning, gourmet feasts, and overseeing special events on your behalf.
For a romantic weekend, book a dinner at Al Malaki Lounge Terrace, offering spectacular views of the Red Sea and serving delightful seafood and international dishes. Habsburg restaurant provides a more relaxed setting for local favorites, while Soleil lounge brings Vienna’s charm and style to Jeddah with its beautifully crafted interiors and authentic Viennese delicacies.
Convenience is key at Rosewood, strategically located at the heart of Jeddah’s major attractions, including Formula 1, Jeddah waterfront, Yacht club and marina, Benchmark concerts, Jeddah city walk, Fakeih Aquarium, and amusement parks.
Ready to embark on an unforgettable journey? Experience the essence of the place and the warmth of ‘karam’ at Rosewood.
Rosewood Jeddah
Corniche Street, Al Shatie District
966 12 260 7111
2. Catch a dolphin show at Fakieh Aquarium.
Dive into the wonders of the underwater realm with a captivating dolphin show at Fakieh Aquarium. It stands as the sole public-access aquarium in Saudi Arabia, offering a unique glimpse into the marine world.
Discover over 200 species, including sharks, groupers, stingrays, napoleon wrasse, seahorses, murrays, and an array of other fascinating fish and sea creatures. Families can be enthralled by daily dolphin and sea lion shows, with the added excitement of swimming with dolphins at 6:30 PM and 9:15 PM.
Nestled in a picturesque setting by the sea, the aquarium provides an enchanting experience for both adults and children alike. It’s the perfect spot for quality family time, featuring play areas and on-site restaurants.
Immerse yourself in the aquatic wonders—book your tickets at fakiehaquarium.com.
3. Embark on a fascinating bike tour through the rich history of Jeddah and its picturesque corniche.
Follow the trail from Bab Makkah to Bait Nasseef to Masjid Al-Mi’maar, weaving through the vibrant Souk Al Alawi adorned with an endless array of colors from herbs and textiles. Immerse yourself in a living history that spans over 600 heritage buildings, 30 mosques, and 5 historic souks, each narrating a unique tale.
Explore this UNESCO Heritage site on an exhilarating biking adventure led by the experienced Courage Bikes team. In the morning tour, visit iconic tourist attractions and archaeological gems scattered across historic Jeddah. The journey then unfolds along the Jeddah Corniche, treating you to breathtaking views of the Red Sea.
For an unforgettable exploration of Jeddah’s cultural treasures and scenic landscapes, book your tour at halayalla.com.sa. Get ready to pedal through history and savor the beauty of the Red Sea coastline!
4. Discover the wonders of open water diving.
Dive into the mysteries of the deep blue sea, unlocking its secrets and experiencing a world like no other. Whether you’re a diving enthusiast or a curious beginner, this course is tailor-made for you. The comprehensive training and skills acquired will not only fulfill your diving dreams but also enable you to explore underwater wonders in over 150 countries worldwide. Upon completion, you’ll proudly possess an international Open Water Diving Certificate.
Immerse yourself in pool sessions, honing your skills before venturing into the open waters of the Red Sea in Jeddah. With each class limited to a cozy group of up to 4 participants, you’ll receive personalized attention and guidance.
Book your Open Water Diving course now at halayalla.com.sa, and let the underwater adventure begin!
Get a free SSI Snorkeling Course and certification with Haddad Scuba Diving.
Whether you’re searching for Nemo or sunken treasure, snapping Sebastian or hoping to bump into Ariel, life really is better under the sea. And with clear turquoise waves and glorious sunshine splitting the stones all year round, Jeddah’s Red Sea is a sweet spot to be enchanted by the ocean’s charm.
Haddad Scuba Diving offers a range of activities and scuba diving programs such as Deep Diving, Wreck Diving, Boat Diving, Shark Diving and Night Diving.
Go for an exhilarating snorkeling boat trip which takes you to breathtaking locations on The Red Sea. Such as sunken shipwrecks and coral islands where you will be surrounded by stunning corals and sea life. If the idea of diving doesn’t appeal to you, opt for our leisure boat trips, guiding you through the submerged beauty of Bayada Isles—a sandy island submerged 30-60 cm underwater.
Book your trips through haddadscuba.com.
5. Gear up for an unforgettable experience at Comicon Arabia 2023!
Returning to the vibrant city of Jeddah, this event promises an epic adventure and loads of fun for fans of comic culture.
Dedicated to all things comics, graphic novels, anime, manga, video games, cosplay, movies, and more, Comicon Arabia 2023 is the ultimate haven for enthusiasts. Calling all cosplayers, here’s your chance to shine and win SAR 15,000! Simply register through the Comic Con Arabia website form and channel your creativity into crafting the perfect costume. And that’s not all—the excitement builds as the first celebrity guest is revealed. Brace yourselves, as Stephen Amell, the iconic Oliver Queen from Arrow, is set to grace the Red Sea city with his presence!
Mark your calendars for this thrilling event, located at the Jeddah Convention Center. Secure your tickets now via saudievents.sa.
6. Immerse in Jeddah’s music and nightlife
Balad Dancefloor Social by MDLBEAST brings its electrifying beats weekly from November 2, on Bait Zainal’s rooftop in the heart of historic Al-Balad. With iconic views, carefully curated tunes by the finest homegrown and international DJ’S, it’s time to hit the dance floor and get social. Book your tickets at mdlbeast.com.
7. Take the kids to Jeddah’s new indoor zoo.
The latest Red Sea city attraction is home to animals from around the world at the new Jeddah indoor zoo from Tuesday October 3 to Saturday December 16. Open daily from 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM, it houses creatures including predators, rare species, birds, flamingoes, reptiles, and domestic animals in an enclosed, air-conditioned forest garden setting. The zoo has multiple entertainment activities and zones to check out, including a dedicated reptile’s section. With the “We let the dogs out” concept in mind, Lucaland section is for the kids to get up close and pet furry animals. Book tickets at ticketmx.com.
8. Check out the Jeddah Corniche Circuit activities.
Explore the array of activities waiting for you at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit during the off-season. When the Formula 1 cars take a break from their speedy rounds, it’s your chance to take the spotlight, whether you’re running, jumping, or engaging in other seaside track adventures. The sporty events are not only free but also family-friendly, making it an ideal outing for friends and loved ones. From 5 pm to 10 pm daily, experience a variety of rotating activities such as cycling, rollerblading, and running. For inclusive fun, join the Family Sports Days, often designed to be wheelchair-friendly.
Stay updated on the weekly activities by following @saudimotorsport and make the most of your time at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit.
9. Try your hand at kite-surfing in the Red Sea.
Experience the exhilaration of kite-surfing on the shores of the Red Sea, whether you’re a seasoned freestyler, a big wave enthusiast, or a complete beginner. Dive into the world of wind and waves at Saudi Kiteboarding Jeddah, where the shallow beach provides the perfect backdrop for your aquatic adventure. Harness the power of the wind, feel the rush, and glide across the waves—it’s a sport that may pose a challenge, but the satisfaction of mastering it is incomparable.
For those eager to dive in, kiteboarding equipment is conveniently available for purchase online at Saudi Kiteboarding. The thrill awaits you daily at this exciting spot. Follow @saudi.kiteboarding to stay updated.
10. Indulge in authentic Hejazi Jeddah cuisine.
When it comes to savoring the authentic flavors of Hijaz, Jeddah stands out as the ultimate culinary haven. Abu Zaid is your go-to spot for an irresistible dose of Hijazi goodness. Whether it’s breakfast or dinner, stepping into any Abu Zaid outlet guarantees a gastronomic delight. Indulge in the hearty and budget-friendly offerings like mutabbak, areekah, and masoub for a truly satisfying experience.
Try Ba’eshan Seafood
No discourse on Hijazi cuisine is complete without highlighting the region’s exquisite seafood offerings. Ba’eshan Seafood, an iconic restaurant since the 1950s, has been a reliable source of seafood delicacies. Choose your fish, specify your preferred cooking method—be it grilled, baked, or fried—and pair it with the rice of your choice. Don’t forget to kick off your culinary journey with the appetizing fried jumbo prawns; your taste buds will undoubtedly express their gratitude!
