Cheap Flights to Jeddah Jazeera Airways Tickets from USD 229*

Discover Jeddah

Jeddah is the second largest city in Saudi Arabia, with a population of approximately 3.4 million. It is also the commercial capital of the country. For centuries, it has been the point where pilgrims, traders, and travellers converge. This explains why the city is so cosmopolitan in nature. Jeddah is a relatively relaxed city with an easy going social life buzzing with shopping districts, cafes and restaurants. There's opportunity aplenty for the enterprising.

This is a city with a colourful history and over the years has gained importance as being the annual gateway for the millions of pilgrims proceeding to the holy cities of Mecca and Medina. The highpoint of Jeddah is the Corniche, which is surrounded by offices, beach resorts, shopping malls, and hotels. Further to the north you'll see several compounds which play host to a vibrant social scene.

Al-Rahma Mosque (Floating Mosque)

Popularly known as the White Mosque, this is nothing short of an architectural wonder. Its beauty lies in the impression it creates that it is floating as its marble exterior sticks out of the water, and is particularly stunning at night.

Corniche (Waterside Promenade)

Where else can you see a seaside promenade lined with peculiar sculptures? The 35km-long Corniche is where everyone comes for a few hours by the sea to picnic and enjoy the refreshing breezes.

Fakieh Aquarium

The aquarium displays a wide range of fish, including sharks, turtles and other colourful marine life from the sea around the region and the world. There’s an entertainment arcade for kids too, and even an ice-skating rink.

Souq Al Alawi

This is probably the biggest souq in the country. The hubbub created by tourists and pilgrims is constant, silenced only by the call to prayer at sunset. This is the place you need to explore for authentic Arabian jewellery, traditional clothing and artefacts.

Shopping

First stop for shopping in Jeddah is the popular Mall of Arabia. Locals find it a convenient place for shopping, entertainment and eating. The shops sell goods ranging from international brands to lesser known labels available in the boutiques.

But there's nothing better than wandering through the narrow alleys of Souq Al Alawi and explore the colourful traditional clothing and textiles mixed with the aromas of exotic spices and herbs. There are endless number of street stalls where you can strike a real bargain either in arts and crafts or traditional jewellery. This is by far the largest souq in the country.

The Red Sea Mall on King Abdulaziz Road is extremely large and houses a variety of stores, restaurants and cafes. The old favourite is the Tahlia Centre which is popular for its beauty products. This is the place for abayas and glittering jewellery and beauty accessories.

Food And Drink

You'll find practically every imaginable cuisine in Jeddah and eating out is part of the social culture here. Your best bet is to drive to the Al Rawdah area in North Jeddah where there's an entire street packed with restaurants. Don't miss the iconic Yildizar restaurant with its delectable blend of Lebanese and Turkish food all served in an attractive atmosphere. It's well known for its delicious grills and sea food fare.

Change direction and go to Saudia City. Here you can sample authentic Pakistani food and Filipino specialities. The low prices will amaze you. You can't go wrong with the ever popular (and cheap) shawarma. Consists of shredded layers of beef/chicken roasted on spit then served with salad, garlic spread and other sauces in a pita bread. If you want something a little more familiar you'll find fast food names including McDonald's, Subway, and other well-known brands throughout the city.