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One day in Jeddah Itinerary [+ what to do for 2 days]

Jeddah is the perfect introduction to Saudi Arabia.  Known affectionately as the “Bride of the Red Sea”, this port city is indeed adjacent to the Red Sea.  Jeddah is the city where many traders have visited over the centuries and where many pilgrims heading to Makkah (Mecca) arrive in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.  The city is easy to navigate for Western visitors – everyone spoke excellent English with us or found someone who did, and the city and its inhabitants are friendly and open to tourism visitors.  We didn’t have a lot of time in the city, so here’s our one day in Jeddah itinerary.

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN COMPENSATED AND AFFILIATE LINKS MORE INFORMATION IN  OUR DISCLAIMER

We visited Jeddah on a long layover.  With a Stop Over Transit visa (which I wrote about here ) available from Saudia Airlines and the Saudi Tourism Authority, you have the opportunity to spend up to 96 hours in the Kingdom.  Our stopover was for 3 nights and included a free transfer from the airport to our hotel and one free night in a hotel (the great Crown Town Hotel is the one we selected from their list – we then paid for 2 extra nights in the same hotel).

We arrived from Tunis, Tunisia at Jeddah International Airport (JED), met our transfer at the tourism booth at airport arrivals, and picked up the excellent introduction to Jeddah guide from them too (make sure you collect one it has some great ideas and places to go!) and then we headed to our hotel for a good night’s sleep before embarking on exploring Jeddah.

Getting Around Jeddah

Before I get into where to head for your one day in Jeddah, you’ll need to consider how you’re going to get around.  The historic old town area of Jeddah might be relatively small, but even from there to the Fish Market is a good 30-minute walk.  It was 33 degrees (91.4 F) when we visited and, while on our one day Jeddah itinerary we did walk nearly 11 kilometers (6.83 miles), I don’t recommend it, and we certainly came nowhere near getting to most places on foot.

You’ll need to either rent a car, take a taxi, or use a ride-sharing service to explore Jeddah in a short time.   We simply tapped up an Uber for all our transport.  It was simple, worked really well and all our drivers were great.  Regardless of how you get around Jeddah, if you’re flying out of the airport, then I wrote about the options available when going from Jeddah to the airport here.

If you’re going to use ride shares like Uber, then you’ll need a local SIM card – I wrote about the best options for Saudi Arabia Sims.

EASIEST WAY TO VISIT

Take a tour of the Al Balad Historical Area

Take a tour in an air conditiond vehicle with an English speaking guide of the historical area of Jeddah, Al Balad. Get to explore the alleyways and souks.

Uber isn’t the only rideshare in town, there are others, like Careem and MyTaxi.  There’s the benefit that you don’t need cash for an Uber – you can read my article here on cash, paying for things, and all things money in Saudi Arabia.

Don’t forget if you rent a car, then you’ll have the added complications of finding somewhere to park, which isn’t always easy or quick here in Jeddah.

You can find all these great places to see in Jeddah on the map that I’ve included later in this article.

Get a great breakfast in Jeddah

Our hotel included breakfast in our rate, and so we were able to explore many of the superb Saudi Arabian breakfast items.  And a strong cup of coffee too.  However, if you don’t get breakfast included, then it’s worth making a stop at one of Jeddah’s breakfast hotspots.  The cuisine in Jeddah is VERY internationalised and you can find pretty much any cuisine you want.  But you’re in the Kingdom, so it’s worth checking out where you can get traditional breakfasts.

My favorite breakfast item was “Foul Medames”.  Mashed fava beans with seasoning, mixed with olive oil and lemon juice.  Served with warm pita bread it’s a gloriously moreish and filling breakfast. 

Try also Mana’eesh – savory pastries like flatbreads topped with herbs and spices (aka za’atar), and sometimes cheese and meat – eat hot from the oven.

Taybat Al Hejaz is one of the top places to eat a traditional breakfast in Jeddah.  Breakfasts here are good value for money and it’s always packed with locals. 

Head to the Fish Market in Jeddah

The central fish market in Jeddah is a wonder.  It’s about a 30-minute walk from the historic old part of Al Balad in Jeddah, although I don’t recommend walking.   It’s clean, and there are some incredible-looking fish here.  Many of the species are caught locally (Balad) and yet more come from further afield.  Local fish are cheaper.

Our Uber driver, Abdul, who picked us up from the fish market was delighted with Nigel’s name.

“It’s the same”, he said, “as one of our fish.”  The “najil”.  Yeah, we can see that.  So Nigel now responds to “Red Grouper” as well as his given name.

There’s a restaurant here, where you can take fish that you buy in the market and get it cooked.  It wasn’t open when we visited, but you may be luckier!

• Address of the Fish Market in Jeddah:  As Salamah, Jeddah 23436, Saudi Arabia
• Opening Times of the Fish Market in Jeddah:   05:00 to 22:00 (best in the morning)

Rehydrate in Jeddah

Jeddah is hot, hot, hot.  And even with the limited walking that we did it was easy to get dehydrated.  There are shadows to hide in within Al Balad, but it’s worth making a plan to stay hydrated.  Water, of course, is important, but so too is a drink called Sobia.  It’s a traditional drink in Saudi Arabia made of barley, cinnamon, cardamom, and sugar and it helps your body to retain water.  It’s particularly popular during the holy month of Ramadan.  And yes, I liked it!

It’s a cold drink and while it’s available in white, red, or brown, with the red coloring coming from a strawberry flavor and the brown from tamarind, we could only find the red and the white.    Try it at the café of the same name, Sobia, in Al Balad.  I’ve marked it on the map.  Drinks cost 11 SAR each, and you can pay here with cash or card.

• Sobia Café, Al Balad Jeddah Address:   6890 Barhat Amru Ibn Hilal, Al Balad District, 3192, Jeddah 22236, Saudi Arabia
• Sobia Café Opening Times:   10:00 – 23:00 (Fridays 15:00 – 23:00)

Explore the Ancient Gates of Jeddah in Al Balad

Marking the traditional entrances to the old town area of Jeddah, Al Balad, (it translates to “the City” in English) are the ancient gates of Jeddah.  The wall that originally surrounded the old City was built by Hussain Al-Kurdi, one of the Mamluk Princes, to protect the city from the marauding Portuguese on the Red Sea.  Originally there were six gates along the city walls.  The walls are no longer standing, they were torn down in the 1940s, but you can find a rebuilt Old Jeddah Gate, by Allegiance Square and the Bab Sharif Gate in the south. 

The most famous of the gates, however, is the Bab Makkah Jeddah.  Jeddah has for centuries been known as the gateway to Makkah (Mecca).  This three-arched gate is a historic monument in the oldest area of Jeddah.  The gates are lit at night, so if you’re exploring Al Balad then it’s particularly atmospheric.  There was also an amazing cool breeze blowing as we stood underneath it, and that at the time was a major win!

See our map for the locations of the Jeddah Gates

Check out the UNESCO World Heritage Al Balad in Jeddah

Al Balad dates back to the 7 th century when the city of Jeddah was founded by fishermen.  This oldest part of Jeddah is found now in Al Balad.  Al Balad has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2014 and the buildings date from the 16 th century.   They are unique, built from coral limestone brought from the Red Sea.   The woodwork of the “rawasheens” – the ornate woodwork bay window coverings is also protected in this part of the city.   This decoration came about following the opening of the Suze Canal in 1869 – when rich merchants began decorating the traditional coral limestone buildings in this way.

There’s much restoration going on in Al Balad, to preserve these buildings, and you’ll need to gaze up and look closely to see some of the more ornate and beautiful history here.   There are two museums of note here in Al Balad.  They’re usually open on an evening from 17:00 until 22:00 – as you’ll most likely be eating at this time on your one day in Jeddah itinerary, I’ve included them in the second part of this article, adding a second day.

Take a late lunch in the Red Sea Mall of Jeddah

Now you’ll kill two birds with one stone with this activity in Jeddah. Food and escape from the heat.  Eating in a mall at lunchtime in Jeddah is a great way to escape the heat of the day and honestly, by now you’ll be more than ready for a little air conditioning.   When we visited Jeddah the temperature was hovering around 33 degrees (91.4 F) and I was positively melting.  I’m not a big shopper, but the cool of the mall was very, very welcome.

Oh, and we were there also to buy a GoPro before we visited the next country on our trip, the Maldives.  We tend to eat our main meal of the day in the evening (and here in Saudi when it’s cooler that makes a lot of sense), so we were able to snack and have coffee in the mall.

The Red Sea Mall is also a good place to stop off on the way up to see the next stop on your Jeddah itinerary, the famous floating mosque of Jeddah.

Once you’re done with drinks, snacks, or lunch, you’ll want to head outside again, and pick up your transport (we recommend using Uber for a short trip in Saudi Arabia).

• Address of Red Sea Mall, Jeddah:   Ash Shati, Jeddah 21146, Saudi Arabia
• Opening Times of the Red Sea Mall, Jeddah:   09:00 to 12:00 (midnight).  Fridays 13:00 to 01:00

Discover the Al Rahmah Mosque aka the floating mosque of Jeddah

You’ll find the Al Rahmah Mosque, also known as the Fatima Al Zahra Mosque, or the floating mosque on the more northerly part of the Corniche in Jeddah.  Jeddah’s Corniche is the road that hugs the coast for 30 kilometers (86 miles). 

The Al Rahma mosque was built in 1985 over the water of the Red Sea.  It is bright white with a turquoise dome.  Sunrise or sunset are said to be spectacular here (the day we visited the sun dipped nicely behind a big cloud at the end of the day).   There are decorative inscriptions, and stained glass, and the dome is held up by 8 pillars.    You can check the prayer times in Jeddah here.

• Opening Times of Al Rahma Mosque Jeddah:   24 hours (but avoid prayer times)
• Address of Al Rahma Mosque, Jeddah:   Corniche Rd, Ash Shati, Jeddah
• Cost of Entry of Al Rahma Mosque Jeddah:   Free

Watch the Sunset on the Corniche in Jeddah

The Corniche in Jeddah is a coastal road, it includes recreational areas, pavilions, sculptures, and the highest fountain in the world (more on this soon), and it also leads you to the Saudi Arabia Formula One track!

While the streets of Jeddah might seem deserted during the day, apart from any tourists wandering around, it is as the sunsets that you’ll see the locals coming out.  Watching the sunset on the Corniche, on Jeddah’s Waterfront is a great place to see a slice of local life.

Families bring tea, and blankets and sit and watch the sunset as the day starts to cool a little.  It’s a great place to watch the sunset here in Jeddah and it’s very family oriented too.

Stand on a Formula One Track in Jeddah

The Formula One Track in Jeddah is in the north of the city, not far from the airport.  It’s said to be the fastest Formula One track on the circuit and has 27 corners, the most of any of the tracks around the world.

When there are events on the Jeddah Waterfront (the Jeddah Yacht Club is located here), they fence off the track, so you can actually walk across it.  Now that’s kind of cool!

The first Saudi Arabian Grand Prix was held here in 2021 – won by Lewis Hamilton.  This is currently the second longest F1 track in the world (the longest is Spa in Belgium), and races only take place here at night, on this 6.175 kilometer (3.83 miles) track.  The max speed that’s been reached here is 322 kilometers per hour (200 miles per hour), although the cars tend to average a mere 240 kilometers per hour (150 miles per hour) !!

Have a drink overlooking the Corniche in Jeddah

Saudi Arabia is a dry country.  So you won’t be sipping a Gin and Tonic overlooking the water here.  What you should drink is juice or coffee.  The country is famous for both.  And I have to admit, the juices here were amazing.  So, so strong and tasty. 

The coffee is also distinctive as it is usually lightly roasted and flavoured with saffron, cinnamon, cardamom or cloves. It is served in small amounts and unsweetened but is usually served with something sweet such as local dates.

Don’t miss the King Fahd Fountain in Jeddah

The best view we had of the world’s biggest fountain was on our flight in – we flew into Jeddah on Saudia Airlines from Tunis (here’s our review of the business class flight ).  We sat on the left and got great views of the city and also the fountain.

The fountain usually doesn’t come on until the evening, when it’s also lit up and it’s a great spectacle.  Unfortunately, later when we wandered past after dinner, this area of the Corniche was closed (we visited during the Red Sea Film Festival, and this area was roped off for VIPs!)

The King Fahd fountain jets water up to 260 meters and is the world’s tallest fountain.  It’s named after King Fahd bin Abdulaziz, who ruled the kingdom from 1982 until 2005.  The fountain was opened in 1985 and is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records (it beats the second-tallest fountain in Seoul by 58 meters).

Water coming out of the fountain reaches 375 kilometers an hour (233 miles an hour) and it uses seawater from the Red Sea.   The fountain base is designed as a mabkhara – an Arabian incense burner and while it is using seawater, the water passes through a series of filters first, before reaching the pump, to protect it from rust and corrosion.  There are 500 LEDs that light it up at night.

Eat Local Specialties in Jeddah

Jeddah has heaps of restaurants that you can find all over the world, so make sure you find one that serves local food and local specialties.  Jeddah is famous for seafood and fish and also Hejaz cuisine.

You can find great well-priced seafood and friendly staff at the Saedi Restaurant on the Jeddah Waterfront.  Pick the fish, or seafood that you want – the prices per gram or kilo are clearly displayed and you do get to pick the specific fish.  It’s weighed and then cooked as you like it (grilled or fried, with an amazing glaze of local herbs and spices).  If you don’t like spice then let them know.  Saudi food usually makes good use of 4 main spices – cardamom, black lime, cloves, and cumin – so it’s not spicy hot, but spicy moreishly tasty.  Your fish here is served with bread, and dips, and salads are on request.  (We LOVED this place).  Even better it was within walking distance from our hotel, the Crown Town , and so after dinner, we spotted the King Fahd Fountain and then had a slow (it’s hot remember!) amble home.

For a somewhat pricier meal, again on the waterfront, head to Al Nakheel .  This is where to come for the specialty dish of Saleeq Chicken and Milky Rice.  If you’ve never tried a savory rice pudding, then you need to come here.  It’s tasty, interesting, and worth the trip.    You may have to specifically ask for this dish, as we couldn’t find it on the English menu, but they were happy to serve it to us. We came here on our second night in Jeddah.

English speakers were harder to find here, but our waiter was fabulous, and we were assigned to one of the super Sri Lankan staff, with whom we chatted about recent trips to Sri Lanka and his hometown of Negombo. 

Make this a 2 day Jeddah Itinerary

Our trip to Jeddah, via Saudia Airlines and the stopover visa gave us 70 hours and 20 minutes to explore the city.  Which is a little more than one day right?  So what I’ve covered above we actually did in two short days.  We took the opportunity to escape in the heat of the day to either our hotel room or to the air conditioning of the Red Sea Mall.   However, it’s easy to fit it all into one day.  And if you do that, then you’ll have time to explore further. 

Here are my suggestions on what to see on your second day in Jeddah

Go to the Aquarium in Jeddah

The Fakieh Aquarium in Jeddah is the first marine exhibition in Saudi Arabia and here, within a stone’s throw of the Red Sea you’ll find more than 200 species, 85% of which are native to Jeddah’s coral reefs.  You’ll walk through tunnels as the marine life swims around you, and get to see life that simply doesn’t exist anywhere else on the planet!

• Fakieh Aquarium Address: Al Kurnaysh Br Rd, Al Nawras,  Next to, Al Kuranaysh Rd, Jeddah 23413, Saudi Arabia
• Fakieh Aquarium Opening Hours:   10:00 – 23:00 (Fridays 12:00 – 23:00)
• Fakieh Aquarium Entrance Fee:    Adults SAR 80, Children SAR 70

Visit the museums in Al Balad

If you’re adding a second day to your visit to Jeddah, then you’ll have time to fit in seeing them on the second day.  I’ll include another local restaurant that you shouldn’t miss that’s within walking distance of Al Balad, but first the museums.

The Matbouli House Museum is an old traditional home in Al-Balad District now operating as a museum.    You’ll find the traditional rawasheens and wooden ceilings as well as stairwells and uneven floors here.

• Matbouli House Museum Address: Al Balad District, Jeddah 22236, Saudi Arabia
• Matbouli House Museum Opening Times:   17:00 – 22:00
• Matbouli House Museum Entrance Fees:   10 SAR

Located in an 1800s house, the Nassif House Museum displays the traditional crafts and architecture – which have been retained despite several renovations.  The house was built in 1880 and is a glorious 106-room coral stone mansion!

The artwork in the house dates to the 19 th century and there’s a library here housing more than 16,000 books!  This was once the home of King Abdulaziz AlSaud, so you’ll be walking the same halls as royalty!  

• Nassif House Museum Address: Al Dhahab, Al-Balad, Jeddah 22236, Saudi Arabia
• Nassif House Museum Opening Times:   17:00 – 22:00
• Nassif House Museum Entrance Fees: Free

Map of Things to Do in Jeddah

You can see the full map of Jeddah’s things to do here .

Eat More Local Specialities in Jeddah

I’ve got two more super offerings for local food for you here in Jeddah.  The first is a chain.  And it’s one that the Saudis love more than KFC.  That’s right.  It’s not just the Koreans who’ve adopted fried chicken as a staple food, it’s also the Saudis.

The Al Baik chicken shops are beloved by Saudis.  This fried chicken comes with its own secret spice mix.

Next up is a little street food, (although this is street food in a café setting) and this is within easy walking distance of Al Balad – so you can eat before heading to the museums or afterward.  Naji Al Harbi serves tasty, juicy kebabs with yogurt sides and is a firm favorite in the area.

Travel Tips for Saudi Arabia

• Considering travel insurance for your trip? World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 adventure activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation, and more.
• Read about Cash, Payments and ATMs in Saudi Arabia here
• Get the right power adapter for Saudi Arabia – our guide is here
• Get an eSim for Saudi Arabia to make life MUCH easier. – our guide to the best SIM cards in Saudi Arabia is here
• Prebook your Saudi Arabia Airport Transfer with Welcome Pickups
• Book the best tours, attractions and guides on Get Your Guide
• Save money in Saudi Arabia with a Wise debit card
• Book accommodation in Saudi Arabia with Booking

Final Words on a Perfect Jeddah Itinerary

I really didn’t know what to expect on our visit to Jeddah.  Clearly, this is a conservative country, so I wore long loose trousers and a long loose blouse the whole time I was there.  I didn’t wear, nor did I feel the need to wear a headscarf, although I had one in my bag at all times.  For us, an agenda that fitted into one day in Jeddah was the perfect amount of time but actually having two days in Jeddah meant that we could take it a lot easier in the heat.  We loved the opportunity to explore the food here over the time we were here and it was a great introduction to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

We receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using our affiliate links. We do not represent World Nomads. This is not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

ASocialNomad is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com, amazon.co.uk, and amazon.ca. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases .

Sarah Carter

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Jeddah Travel Tips & Things to Know Before Traveling to Saudi Arabia

Adorned in both ancient mud village houses and modern skyscrapers that appear to cascade up into the heavens, Jeddah is a captivating port city located along the shores of the Red Sea. Looking for Jeddah travel tips before planning a holiday in Saudi Arabia? Count on finding a forward-thinking city loaded with luxury shopping centers, romantic coastal boardwalks, and restaurants that serve up the finest Middle Eastern cuisine. Jeddah is home to more than 4 million residents and is considered the westernmost gateway to the Islamic holy cities Mecca and Medina. Jeddah remains a safe and dynamic destination where tourists can learn about history that dates back to biblical days amidst new-age entertainment and modern attractions.

Jeddah Travel Tips: Local Customs, Souqs & Museums

Jeddah is one of the largest cities in Saudi Arabia and is considered an economic hub due to its proximity to the sea port. Jeddah is a melting pot of cultures but is predominantly an Islamic society. The driving force behind the culture and lifestyle of the city makes Jeddah a fascinating place to visit, and markets, or souqs (souks), and museums are great places to learn about economic staples and local products. Jeddah is home to several souqs that offer fresh produce, handmade crafts, local fashions and accessories, and sweet treats.

Be sure to visit Central Fish Market where you can stroll through vendor stalls and purchase the freshest seafood in the region. Hang out for a while and watch experts carve perfect fish fillets and take part in seafood auctions. Central Fish Market is located along the waterfront on Al Kurnaysh Road. Khaimah Market is another popular outdoor public market that specializes in local foods like dried figs, gourmet coffee, and fresh produce. It is also a great place to find souvenirs to commemorate your visit. Khaimah Market is located in the Al-Hindaweyyah district.

Art plays an important role in the past, present, and future of Jeddah . New museums, landmarks, and galleries are opening regularly as a way to invite more tourism to the region.

5 Must-Visit Museums in Jeddah

• Athr Gallery – brilliant contemporary art
• Arabian Wings Gallery – art for all ages
• Nesma Art – intuitive art
• Abdul Raouf Khalil Museum – Islamic heritage
• Jeddah Sculpture Museum – garden art

Jeddah Travel Tips: Expect Safe Travels in Saudi Arabia

Like many other major metropolitan cities of the globe, Jeddah features safe tourist and business neighborhoods. Travelers who stick to the main areas of tourism in Jeddah will have no problem enjoying a safe holiday in Saudi Arabia.

Jeddah Travel Tips: Getting Around Jeddah

Jeddah is one of the wealthier cities of the Middle East and travelers have plenty of options available when it comes to getting around the city. If you are not familiar with driving in Saudi Arabia, it is best to leave driving up to those who know how. The most convenient way for getting around Jeddah is to hire a private car and driver. There are plenty of services and tourists are likely to get a good deal by doing some research ahead of time. Jeddah also has an extensive taxi system with reasonable rates.

In Jeddah , there is a public bus system that offers several routes throughout the city. Buses are a major mode of transportation for locals and can get quite busy during peak commute hours, but tourists looking to experience Jeddah like a local should try the bus at least once!

Jeddah Travel Tips: Advice for First-Time Travelers

Traveling to Jeddah for the first time can be a rewarding experience and amazing cultural lesson filled with beautiful scenery and amazing attractions. To make sure your trip goes off without a hitch, keep a few Jeddah travel tips in mind.

Pack the Right Clothing

Should you need special clothes, like abaya cloaks for females, be sure to order them ahead of time so you are not stuck waiting in your hotel room before they arrive. Men should refrain from wearing anything made of silk or with gold coloring, as both are considered inappropriate for males.

Choose Your Travel Dates Wisely

During the summer months, Jeddah experiences scorching temperatures, so travelers with heat sensitivity should consider the weather during this time. Traveling to Jeddah during the 30 days of Ramadan also can afford a unique experience, as local businesses and restaurants close during daytime hours to observe the religious holiday. Adventurous tourists often love the cultural experience of traveling to Jeddah during Ramadan because nighttime activities and festivals are at an all-time high during the month-long season.

Be Respectful to Authorities

It’s a good idea to carry identification with you while traveling in Jeddah , and as in any country, it is equally as important to be respectful to police officers and government officials if they ask to see your passport or visa.

Understand the Laws

The most important thing you can do before heading off to Jeddah is to make sure you research and understand the laws of Saudi Arabia. Jeddah is a hospitable city that welcomes tourists, and visitors who respect local customs, laws and traditions will enjoy an unforgettable holiday in Jeddah .

Check in to a hotel or apartment in Jeddah

Jeddah Travel Tips: What to See in Jeddah

Located along the historic maritime Silk Road , Jeddah has long been a coveted trading hub due to its proximity to the Red Sea and is a place where shoppers can find a fine assortment of handmade items as well as treasures from all over the world. While visiting, you can expect to be in the company of many other travelers who are there to soak up the sunshine at a 5-star resort, take care of some business, or make the pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca. Whatever your reason for needing Jeddah travel tips, be sure to check out these amazing sights while in the city.

1. Naseef House

Featuring over 100 rooms filled with everything from wood carvings to ornate calligraphy scrolls, Naseef House was built in the late 1800s and offers an amazing glimpse into the creative minds of the Saudi culture. This museum is located at Al Dhahab, Al-Balad, and is easy to spot because it is one of the few properties in the city where you can find a living tree.

2. Floating Mosque

Perfect for prayers and seeking a spiritual awakening, the Floating Mosque is a majestic Islamic mosque that offers a stunning view. You will find the Floating Mosque at 2420 Corniche Rd, 6826, and can stop in at any time day or night to experience religious services on the waterfront.

3. Al Shallal Theme Park

Complete with a thrilling roller coaster, high flying carousel swings, arcade games, bowling, and ice skating, Al Shallal Theme Park is a sun-soaked waterfront oasis designed to be fun for visitors of all ages. This theme park is open nightly from 5pm-1am and is located at Al Kurnaysh Rd, Ash Shati.

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8 Perfect Places to Visit in Jeddah With Family

If you ever journey to Saudi Arabia , then a visit to the commercial hub, Jeddah, is a must. Located in the middle of the eastern coast of the Red Sea, Jeddah is the second-largest city in Saudi Arabia and is famous for being the Gateway to Mecca. 

With its beaches, resorts, shopping malls, restaurants, and not to forget the unique sculptures lining the Corniche and its historic old city, there’s plenty for tourists to explore in Jeddah.

Best Time to Visit Jeddah 

How to get to jeddah  , 1. masjid al rahma (floating mosque) , 2. fakieh aquarium  , 3. mall of arabia  , 4. al balad  , 5. atallah happy land park  , 6. silver sands beach  , 7. al tayebat international city  , 8. souq shatee  , how long will you need in jeddah  , best places to stay in jeddah  .

You may also be interested in our guide to the best places to visit in Riyadh with family

Like most Saudi cities, Jeddah also experiences extreme summers with hot and humid weather. Therefore, if you’re looking for the best time to visit Jeddah , we suggest visiting from November through to March. 

During these months, the weather cools down to some extent, with temperatures as low as 21 degrees C at night. However, November is also the month when Jeddah faces downpours, making the weather a bit chillier and more unpredictable than usual.  

But if a bit of heat isn’t a deal breaker for you, visiting during June is also not too bad. Just make sure you carry water and an umbrella with you (for the sun)! 

Getting to Jeddah depends on where you’re travelling from.

For instance, if you’re going to or from Mecca* (for example, performing Umrah ), it will take only around 1 hour to reach by road. However, from Madinah*, it takes almost 5 hours by road and 1 hour by air.  

There is currently only a rail connection from Jeddah Airport to Mecca and Medinah, not to other parts of the country.

From Riyadh to Jeddah is a short domestic flight of just under 2 hours or a rather lengthy drive of over 900 kilometres – nearly 10 hours.

If you’re travelling from outside Saudi Arabia, we recommend flying directly to King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED).  

Another option is to include a one-day stopover in Jeddah on a cruise through the Red Sea, such as MSC Orchestra.

(*The religious sites of Mecca and Madinah are only open to Muslim pilgrims holding the right Visa)

How to Get Around Jeddah  

The public transport options in Jeddah are only buses; therefore, a rental car could be the best way to get around the city if you’re a confident driver.

• You can check rental car options for Jeddah here .

You can also get from one place to another via taxi , as they are readily available and have negotiable rates. Uber is another option for tourists to use, and Blacklane is a premium option that many of our Dubai readers may be familiar with.

Your other option is to join an organised tour where you’ll be driven to each of the highlights, and commentary is included. This can be a great way to get acquainted with a city such as Jeddah without the traffic hassles:

With that sorted, let’s move on to the best places to visit in Jeddah. 

8 Best Places to Visit in Jeddah with Family  

Here are eight of the best Jeddah attractions for your whole family: 

When in Jeddah, the first place you should visit is Masjid Al Rahma (also known as Al Rahma Mosque and Fatima Al Zahra Mosque), but most famously known as the Floating Mosque . It is located on the edge of Jeddah Corniche and is built in such a way that it appears to be floating on water.  

Masjid Al Rahma was constructed in 1985 and is intricately decorated with traditional Islamic art and architecture, making it a famous Jeddah tourist attraction. During days when the water level is low, the supporting pillars of the mosque are visible; however, when the tide is high, the mosque gives an optical illusion of floating on water, which appears even more beautiful at night when its reflection is visible in the water. 

We share all of the most beautiful places you’ll want to visit in Saudi Arabia here

If you are travelling with kids, then your next place to visit in Jeddah is the Fakieh Aquarium . The aquarium has a Caribbean theme and has several exotic sea creatures, including stonefish, jellyfish, dolphins, sharks, and turtles.  

Apart from viewing the marine creatures in their natural habitats, you can also enjoy the dolphin show and grab a bite from the on-site cafe. 

While visiting new places and checking out attractions in a city is the main reason most people plan trips, the second reason is shopping!  

The Mall of Arabia is the biggest mall in Jeddah, spread over an expanse of 261,000 square meters. It has over 408 shops and stores, ranging from famous international brands to local stores offering unique items. 

The mall is a family-favourite destination because it offers several entertainment options for children. From Kidzania, the largest indoor play village, to Sparkies and Billy Bees, numerous options exist to cater to kids of all ages. It’s the perfect place for escaping the heat on a hot day in Jeddah.

There’s also a cinema, restaurants and cafes where you can chill after a busy day of shopping! 

If you’re looking to learn some interesting facts about Saudi culture and heritage, you should definitely visit Al Balad. 

It is one of the oldest and largest cities in Saudi Arabia and holds a lot of historical significance. It was built in the 7th century and has some of the oldest houses preserved. This UNESCO World Heritage Site includes Al Nassif House and Al Jamjoon House, which take you all the way back to the early days of Saudi Arabia with their unique architecture and construction. 

Other interesting places in Al Balad include an ancient Christian cemetery with almost 400 graves and a sarcophagus for the famous French explorer Charles Huber. Then there’s the Al Qabal Mosque, with its intricate artwork and several ruins of buildings as old as 500 years.  

Therefore, if you want to take a stroll through Saudi Arabia’s past, Al Balad is the place to go! 

If you’re done visiting ancient buildings and state-of-the-art malls, it’s time to go for some adventurous fun! 

The Atallah Happy Land Park is one of the first amusement parks in Saudi Arabia and is a great place to hang out with your family. It has more than 26 adult rides, including Surfrider, Terminator, and Pirate. There’s also a section dedicated to the younger lot with rides such as the Samba Balloon, Saltomato, Apple Coaster, and a soft play area for toddlers.  

The park’s main highlight is the Musical Dancing Fountain, which has 94 choreographed music and lighting effects.  

Indoor activities include a skating rink, 6D cinema, bowling alley, climbing wall, and an arcade games area. 

In short, the Atallah Happy Land Park has something for every family member! 

It won’t be fair if you visit the coastal city of Jeddah and don’t go to the beach!  

Silver Sands Beach is the ultimate getaway from the swarming crowds of Jeddah. Located on Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Street, Al Lulu, it is a private beach along the Red Sea coast that offers visitors a serene and relaxing experience.  

The shore is lined with comfortable sunbeds and lounging chairs, from where you can have a spectacular view of the glistening white sand and the calm turquoise water.  

And, if you’d like to indulge in some water activities, the beach offers snorkelling, parasailing, jet skiing, and swimming. You can also request a deepsea diving adventure, where you can get a chance to see the marine life up close and have a look at the beautiful coral reefs. 

There’s also a beachside play area for the kids to jump on the trampoline and build sand castles to their heart’s content. This is one of the best relaxing things to do with family in Jeddah.

Al Tayebat International City is a museum in Jeddah dedicated to history, science, and technology. It has four floors, 18 wings, 300 rooms, and over 60,000 Islamic artefacts from around the globe, dating back 2500 years. 

The building is constructed based on the intricate Hijazi architecture of the old city, complete with bay window styles, wooden latticework, and coral-embellished masonry. The museum contains information and artifacts from the time earlier civilizations settled in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and the wider Arabian Peninsula.  

From ancient coins to modern furniture and artwork from around the Middle East, you will find Al Tayebat International City full of interesting facts, rich historical information, and items dating back to the foundation days of the Arabic settlements.  

If spending your time at the giant Red Sea Mall isn’t your thing, you will definitely enjoy shopping in the traditional souks of Jeddah. The best and most famous place to visit in Jeddah is Souq Shatee. 

It is a small place that is well-known among locals and tourists for offering unique clothing items, jewellery, footwear, abayas, toys, accessories, and souvenirs at a reasonable price.  

So, if you’re looking to take back a thoughtful little gift for your loved ones back home, Souq Shatee is the perfect place to find something exclusive to remind you of your time in Saudi Arabia.  

While Jeddah is the second-largest city in Saudi Arabia and has plenty of attractions, you can easily cover the whole city in 3 to 4 days. This includes beaches, mosques, amusement parks, museums, and other historical places. 

The city of Jeddah is a place where tourists can be seen all year round. Whether it’s pilgrims from Mecca or people just wanting to check out Jeddah’s popular tourist attractions, the city is swarming with activity. Therefore, it has several accommodation options which would be suitable for families with different budgets. 

We have put together a list of the best places to stay in Jeddah, ranging from 5-star hotels to mid-range and budget-friendly options. 

Best Luxury Stay in Jeddah: Waldorf Astoria Jeddah – Qasr-Al-Sharq  

If you are looking for a luxury 5-star hotel in Jeddah, we recommend staying at the Waldorf Astoria Jeddah – Qasr-Al-Sharq . 

Located on North Corniche Road, the hotel offers world-class service to guests. The suites are decorated with gold accents and crystal decor and have state-of-the-art Italian furniture. Each room is designed by professional interior designers and is equipped with central air conditioning, a satellite TV, a mini bar, and plush sofas for comfortable lounging. 

Other amenities include a wellness spa for the ladies that offers high-quality organic beauty treatments, an aqua medic pool, and a well-equipped gym.  

It has several on-premise restaurants that offer Italian and Lebanese cuisine that you can enjoy while taking in the scenic views of the Red Sea. 

Perfect Mid-Range Hotel in Jeddah: Emerald Hotel  

If you’re looking for a hotel that offers comfortable rooms, amazing service, and has all the features for a divine stay, but is reasonably priced, book a room at the Emerald Hotel .  

It is a 4-star hotel that offers intricately decorated rooms with comfortable beds equipped with air conditioning, a mini bar, a fridge, a work desk, a flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom. Some upscale rooms even offer breathtaking views of the city skyline. 

The guests can enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast every morning, while an on-site restaurant and coffee shop has a kids’ menu and provides meals for special diets on request. 

Other amenities include an outdoor swimming pool complete with beach chairs, loungers, and towels. The best part is that the guests can access the pool free of cost. The hotel also has a well-equipped fitness centre for guests. 

Therefore, Emerald Hotel is the perfect kid-friendly mid-range hotel in Jeddah if you’re travelling with kids. 

Great Budget Choice in Jeddah: Taj Al Worood Hotel

If you’re in Jeddah for a short trip and looking for a budget-friendly hotel, we recommend the Taj Al Worood Hotel .

The 3-star hotel offers executive suites that can accommodate a family of 4, as well as king and deluxe rooms.

The hotel has an on-site restaurant offering complimentary breakfast each morning, as well as an in-room coffee maker and refrigerator. All rooms are air-conditioned, and many also offer city views. Specialised baby equipment, such as high chairs and baby safety gates, can also be ordered.

It’s a great pick for those looking at family-sized rooms around the $100 USD-a-night mark.

You can check out further Jeddah accommodation options here:

Ready to visit jeddah.

Jeddah is the second-largest city in Saudi Arabia, and as it is located on the coast of the Red Sea , it is a popular tourist attraction and stopover for the pilgrims of Mecca.  

While it did not have many places in the beginning, in recent years, the city has developed at a fantastic pace, and now there are several places to visit in Jeddah with family. From amusement parks to mosques with beautiful architecture, historical sites, museums, beaches, and restaurants, you will find lots of things to do in Jeddah. 

So, plan a short trip to Jeddah and enjoy the culture-rich city and its attractions for a vacation different from the regular one.  

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The Family Travel in the Middle East team of travel writers are all parents based in the Middle East, sharing first hand experiences and reviews from across the region to help you plan your next family adventure.

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The historic crossroads of pilgrims and traders, and the traditional gateway to Mecca, Jeddah is the most fascinating of Saudi Arabia's major cities, with a cosmopolitan and liberal air not present anywhere else in the Kingdom. Visitors will love the city's World Heritage Red Sea architecture, its bustling souq, the laid-back coastline that's home to fantastic dive sites, and its diverse, world-class cuisine.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Al Shafee Mosque

Beautifully restored and maintained, this historic mosque, one of the finest in Jeddah, is named after one of the four great imams of classical Sunni…

Matbouli House Museum

With so many traditional houses closed in Al Balad, this privately owned museum in a beautiful three-storey property with stunning Hejazi mashrabiyya …

Once a smelly, unpleasant stretch of coastline, the corniche in northern Jeddah has been transformed into a pleasant walkway and leisure space. There are…

Souq Al Alawi

This souq runs off Al Dahab St and is the most extensive in the Kingdom. The market stalls cut into the heart of the old city and buzz with the activity…

Al Tayibat City Museum for International Civilisation

This privately owned four-floor collection has displays ranging from pre-Islamic artefacts, exquisite Islamic manuscripts, old coins and weaponry to…

Al Rahma Mosque

This mosque in the north of Jeddah sits on stilts and seemingly floats on the Red Sea. Visitors come to wander in the open courtyard and enjoy the cooling…

Naseef House

One of Jeddah’s best-restored old coral houses, Naseef House belonged to one of Jeddah’s most powerful trading families and was later a royal residency…

The Mecca gate was historically the most important gate for Jeddah, Arabia's official pilgrim port. It stands at the start of the road that led to Islam's…

Latest stories from Jeddah

Aug 9, 2019 • 5 min read

In the second instalment in Lonely Planet writer Tharik Hussain’s Hajj diaries, he guides us through his family’s experience as they leave England for…

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2-Day Jeddah Itinerary

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• Jeddah in 2 days
• 1-Day Jeddah Itinerary
• 3-Day Jeddah Itinerary
• 4-Day Jeddah Itinerary
• 5-Day Jeddah Itinerary

Table of contents

Day 1: most popular attractions, day 2: south side of town, red sea mall.

Jeddah Water Front

Fakieh Aquarium

Al shallal recreational park, king fahad's fountain, cenomi haifa mall, mall of arabia, where to eat, il-gabbiano, nando's red sea mall, green land restaurant, jeddah hilton, al salaam mall, khadija baghlaf mosque, jaffali mosque, nassif house museum, al rahmah mosque, sushi cuisine, albaik balad, radisson blu hotel, jeddah plaza, steak house.

Attractions

Top searches in Jeddah

Popular road trips from jeddah, what's the weather like in jeddah.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Jeddah for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Jeddah in January
• Weather in Jeddah in February
• Weather in Jeddah in March
• Weather in Jeddah in April
• Weather in Jeddah in May
• Weather in Jeddah in June
• Weather in Jeddah in July
• Weather in Jeddah in August
• Weather in Jeddah in September
• Weather in Jeddah in October
• Weather in Jeddah in November
• Weather in Jeddah in December

All road trips from Jeddah

• Jeddah to Dubai drive
• Jeddah to Jerusalem drive
• Jeddah to Abu Dhabi drive
• Jeddah to Sharm El Sheikh drive
• Jeddah to Tel Aviv drive
• Jeddah to Cairo drive
• Jeddah to Petra - Wadi Musa drive
• Jeddah to Doha drive
• Jeddah to Luxor drive
• Jeddah to Paphos drive
• Jeddah to Medina drive
• Jeddah to Eilat drive
• Jeddah to Antalya drive
• Jeddah to Hurghada drive
• Jeddah to Ayia Napa drive
• Jeddah to Beirut drive
• Jeddah to Amman drive
• Jeddah to Riyadh drive
• Jeddah to Goreme drive
• Jeddah to Fethiye drive
• Jeddah to Alanya drive
• Jeddah to Manama drive
• Jeddah to Ankara drive
• Jeddah to Muscat drive
• Jeddah to Haifa drive
• Jeddah to Limassol City drive
• Jeddah to Tehran drive
• Jeddah to Manavgat drive
• Jeddah to Pamukkale drive
• Jeddah to Kuwait City drive

Explore nearby places

• King Abdullah Economic City
• Khamis Mushait
• Port Ghalib

All related maps of Jeddah

• Map of Jeddah
• Map of Mecca
• Map of King Abdullah Economic City
• Map of Al Kamil
• Map of Taif
• Map of Rabigh
• Map of Al Bahah
• Map of Port Sudan
• Map of Yanbu
• Map of Medina
• Map of Khaybar
• Map of Abha
• Map of Khamis Mushait
• Map of Al Ula
• Map of Marsa Alam
• Map of Farasan
• Map of Jazan
• Map of Keren
• Map of Port Ghalib
• Map of Massawa
• Map of Nejran
• Map of Asmara
• Map of Bukayriah
• Map of Aswan
• Map of Philae
• Map of Unaizah
• Map of Ha'il
• Map of El Quseir
• Map of Kom Ombo
• Map of Buraidah
• Map of Al Wajh

Jeddah throughout the year

• Jeddah in January
• Jeddah in February
• Jeddah in March
• Jeddah in April
• Jeddah in May
• Jeddah in June
• Jeddah in July
• Jeddah in August
• Jeddah in September
• Jeddah in October
• Jeddah in November
• Jeddah in December

Looking for other day-by-day itineraries in Jeddah?

Check out our other curated itineraries that are also filled with jam-packed days:

Day itineraries for nearby cities

• 2-Day Marsa Alam Itinerary
• 2-Day Aswan Itinerary
• 2-Day Medina Itinerary
• 2-Day Mecca Itinerary

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Jeddah Airport Guide

Whether you have a layover, overnight sleepover or you are just quickly passing through, our Jeddah Airport Guide is a great place to start planning your visit.  Here, you’ll find information on services and facilities available inside the airport – including details about airport lounges, WiFi, mobile charging points, lockers, 24-hour food options, nearby hotels, and everything in between.

• Airport Lounges

• Airport Hotels

Airport WiFi

Luggage Storage

Mobile Charging

I have personally had one immigration officer FALL ASLEEP while checking my documents. He actually left his post to go splash water on his face, but then fell back asleep immediately upon return. – a traveller

JED Airport Overview

What to Expect

There are 3 terminals at the Jeddah airport: New Terminal 1, North & Hajj. The new Terminal 1 is said to be modern with several amenities such as gardens and lounges.  According to wikipedia, Saudia and Ethiad are currently operating out of Terminal 1.  The North Terminal handles all flights on foreign airlines (except Ethiad). While the Hajj Terminal handles the traffic for the annual pilgrimage to Mecca.

• The immigration / passport control area is reportedly disastrous, so prepare yourself for long wait times (some reported 4+ hours) and poor customer service.
• Many reviewers warned of filthy bathrooms. One went as far as to describe them as a “war zone.” We recommend bringing hand sanitizer and tissues along.
• Only passengers are able to enter the airport. Non-travellers have been banned from entering the departure and arrival halls. There is reportedly a small, uncomfortable waiting area outside the airport and it does not have a woman’s section in it.
• Economy class passengers can pay to use one of the first class lounges. See Airport Lounges in the guide below for locations and rates.
• WiFi is available to help pass the time.

Sleeping in Jeddah Airport

According to reviewers, sleeping options are limited to hard metal benches.  For uninterrupted sleep, there is a hotel on airport grounds. See our Airport Hotels section below for more info.

Good to Know

• Several female reviewers reported being placed in separate, longer security lines.
• Complaints about this airport are frequent and varied. You may want to read traveller reviews to get a better idea of what you may be facing.

To help us keep this guide up-to-date, you can add or update information or write a review to submit airport tips and photos. You can also visit the airport’s web site for current information.  For more airport information continue scrolling down to explore more in our Jeddah Airport Guide.

In this guide we may refer to locations as “landside” and “airside”. Landside is the public area of the terminal located in the non-secure zone, before security. Airside is the secure area of the terminal that you must reach by going through security.  For more information on Europe’s Schengen Area, click here .

Airport Hours

The airport is open 24 hours.

Pay-per-use, Single Visit Passes & Lounge Memberships

Regardless of what class of service you are flying, there is a lounge that you can enter by purchasing a lounge pass or through a lounge membership program. Visit the individual lounge page for more details about the lounge itself and to also find out how you can gain lounge access with just an economy class ticket!

• First Class Lounge – Location: North Terminal, Airside. Hours: Open 24 Hours. Lounge Access: Prepaid lounge pass • Lounge membership programs.
• Plaza Premium Lounge – Location: Terminal 1, International Departures, near Gate 39.  Hours: open 24 hours.  Lounge Access: Pay at the Door.

Related Pages: Jeddah Airport Lounges

If sleeping in the airport sounds like a nightmare, there are hotels near Jeddah Airport:

• Clarion Hotel – No airport shuttle.  » Check Rates
• Mena Airport Hotel Jeddah – Located close to the International Terminal.  » Check Rates

For more options, visit Tripadvisor to see a list of hotels near Jeddah Airport that can be sorted by price, distance, traveller rating and popularity.

Rest & Relaxation Zones

A reader tells us “There are 4 inclined chairs in gate A29. It’s the only free rest zone available in the Airport”. (August 2022) To add more locations, write a review or click here to update this guide .

Drinking Water

Information is unavailable. Does the airport have water fountains or water bottle refill stations? Click here to update this guide .

Food & Drinks

There are restaurants and coffee shops available. Hours are not known but options are available both landside and airside.

Luggage Storage & Lockers

As of the last update, luggage storage facilities are available. Further information is currently unknown.

A traveller (August 2018) has advised us that mobile charging (Huawei Super Charge) is available in the International Terminal South. The charging stations offer USB, Iphone charging and traditional power socket charging.

Unavailable. If this is incorrect, click here to update this guide .

WiFi/Internet

Free WiFi is available at Jeddah Airport in Terminal 1 and the North Terminal.

More Airport Information

ATMs / Cash Machines – Need cash? ATMs are available. Fees may apply, so be sure to check your bank’s fee schedule and your daily withdrawal limit if you are travelling internationally. You may also want to notify your bank of your travel plans. Locations: Terminal 1 & North Terminal.

Banking Services – ANB Bank • Alahi Bank • Alinma Bank • Al rajhi Bank all provide full-service banking inside the airport. Locations are available in both terminals.

Currency Exchange – Alamoudi Exchange provides services in both Terminals. Full banking services are also available (see above) and may also provide currency exchange.

Duty Free & Shopping – Yes, Duty Free is available (note, alcohol is not allowed to be sold) as well as a variety of other shops.

Pharmacy – Alnahdi Pharmacy is available in both Terminals.

Prayer Room – Yes, a large mosque is available at the airport.

SIM Cards – A reader tells us “Before you exit the airport, there are various SIM card shops. The three major brands to look out for in Saudi Arabia is STC, Zain and Mobily. STC is the best 5G coverage.” (April 2023)

Travel Agencies – If you are arriving in Jeddah and need local arrangements or help planning a really last minute trip abroad, there is a Altayyar travel agency with offices at the airport (both Terminals) that can probably be of assistance.

The airport is served by 12 different car rental agencies including Avis • Best Car Rentals • Budget • Tajeer and more. The South Terminal provides the most options.

Hotel Shuttles

At the time of this update there were no hotels providing airport shuttle service.  See also Airport Hotels above.

Taxis are readily available for hire in the ground transportation area. There are no meters, so negotiate a fare with the driver before starting your journey.

Last updated: 2024-01-31

This guide is for informational purposes only to assist with your planning.  All information, including rates and hours, is subject to change at any time without notice.   The information in this airport guide is based on information collected and/or received from the airports, lounges, hotels, transportation providers, and their websites. We are not representatives of any of the above-mentioned service providers. To report errors or to add/update any items mentioned in the guide: update the airport guide  or   write a review .

• Jeddah King Abdulaziz Airport Guide
• Jeddah King Abdulaziz Airport Lounges
• Jeddah King Abdulaziz Airport Reviews
• Airport Guides
• Airport Reviews
• Things to do on a Layover
• Airport Layover Sightseeing
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• Airport Lounge Pass FAQ
• Write an Airport Review
• Sleeping in Airports FAQ
• About Sleeping in Airports
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Out of Your Comfort Zone

The art of backpacking & adventures to get out of your comfort zone – tips and advice, how to spend 1 day in jeddah, saudi arabia (great for cruise stops).

Last Updated on July 12, 2024 by Lohanna Reis

Have plans to visit Jeddah, perhaps on a cruise stop or a flight layover? Wondering how to spend your time in Saudi Arabia’s most “liberal” city? Read on for recommendations & other tips in our 1-day Jeddah itinerary for all the details. 

I’m going to start today’s article with a bit of honesty: I didn’t exactly enjoy my short visit to Jeddah. 

Traditional architecture in Al-Balad, Jeddah’s UNESCO-protected old town

It was an interesting place, to be sure. And I was glad to have had the unique chance to “peel back the curtain,” even if just for a day, on life inside one of the most closed-off countries in the world: the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. 

But as a woman, it was also a pretty surreal (if not a somewhat uncomfortable) experience to be in a place that I knew cared so little for me as a person. To be in a place where men wouldn’t speak to me but rather, only to my husband (despite the fact that I spoke Arabic and could address them in the language, while my husband could not.) 

Now, I don’t really want to go too far down that rabbit hole for today’s article. 

So while I only had a day in Jeddah and I’m certainly not an “expert” in the country, I did think I could offer up some tips n’ tricks in this article. Especially since tourism is still in its infancy in Saudi Arabia, so I know it can be hard to get accurate info.  

All that said, let’s dive in.  

But first… 

Table of Contents

• 1 Can tourists even get into Jeddah or Saudi Arabia? 
• 2 How can I get a tourist visa for Saudi Arabia? 
• 3 What to wear in Jeddah as a woman? 
• 4 What to wear in Jeddah as a man?
• 5 How to get to the Jeddah city center from the Jeddah cruise terminal 
• 6 How to get around Jeddah for this 1-day itinerary 
• 7 Can you use Uber in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia? 
• 8.1 1-DAY JEDDAH ITINERARY PART 1: MORNING WALK (OR BIKE!) ALONG THE CORNICHE
• 8.2 1-DAY JEDDAH ITINERARY PART 2: EXPLORATION OF AL-BALAD, JEDDAH’S UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE PROTECTED OLD TOWN  
• 8.3 1-DAY JEDDAH ITINERARY: A somewhat odd recommendation…   
• 9 Other optional attractions to add to your 1 day in Jeddah 
• 10 In sum…
• 11 Planning your next trip?

Can tourists even get into Jeddah or Saudi Arabia? 

Yes, tourists can visit Saudi Arabia! 

However, do be aware that tourism is still a relatively new industry to the country. 

Previously, tourism was almost strictly religious based, meaning that non-muslims were required to undergo a lengthy tourist visa process and could not visit the country independently without a guide. And women, of course, weren’t allowed to visit without a male accompaniment. 

Over the past few years, this has been changing. Some parts of the country remain firmly closed to non-Muslims (like Mecca). 

But in general, non-muslim tourists can now visit many parts of the country freely. And in 2019, Saudi finally launched a new tourist visa program that lets the citizens of 49 countries apply for an e-visa or visa on arrival. 

How can I get a tourist visa for Saudi Arabia? 

If you’re coming to Jeddah by cruise ship as we did, then your ship should send you visa application instructions by email before you embark. 

However, I will note that the visa process for our ship was incredibly chaotic and disorganized. Many passengers didn’t receive their visa in time to disembark (we only received ours the night before we arrived in Jeddah). So I do recommend checking with your ship ASAP and see about applying in advance if possible. 

Otherwise, take a look at the Saudi government website here to see what type of visa you qualify for. 

And if you’re from one of the 49 countries that qualify for an e-visa (including the U.S., most of the European Union, Australia, New Zealand, and a handful of countries in Asia), then you can apply here . 

What to wear in Jeddah as a woman? 

As a foreigner, you’re not required to cover your hair or wear an abaya (the long, flowing garment that you’ll see most women wear).   

But despite Jeddah being Saudi Arabia’s most “liberal” city, you’ll still be required to cover up and dress very conservatively, regardless of the 90+ degree heat. 

This means a skirt or dress that goes down to your ankles and a 3/4 sleeve or longer t-shirt that fits loosely and fully covers your chest. If you choose to wear pants, make sure you pair them with a shirt long enough to fully cover your backside. 

To give you an idea, you can find a picture of what I wore and felt comfortable in. (Full disclosure: I forgot to take a picture of exactly what I was wearing in Jeddah, so here’s me wearing something similar while in Tunisia , though it was about a gazillion degrees hotter in Saudi. The other difference is that I kept my sleeves unrolled so they went down closer to my wrists, and then kept my shirt untucked and added a thin scarf so I didn’t show any shape.) 

What to wear as a woman in Saudi Arabia (picture taken in Tunisia , but this is the general idea!)

What to wear in Jeddah as a man?

Generally, men don’t wear shorts. But other than that, any kind of pants and a t-shirt are just fine. 

That said, most local men will opt for a thobe: a traditional, flowing white garment made out of linen or cotton. 

How to get to the Jeddah city center from the Jeddah cruise terminal 

Without traffic, the Jeddah cruise terminal is about a 15-20 minute drive away from Al-Balad, the historic center. 

That said, this can be MUCH longer if there’s a lot of traffic. Which we found out the hard way, as we were desperately trying to get back to our ship before it left. So, make sure to give yourself plenty of extra time!  

As far as we can tell, there aren’t any buses in and out of the port. So your best bet is a taxi. 

The cruise terminal in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Fortunately, they’ll be a ton of taxis waiting for you right at the port. Unfortunately, they are VERY pushy and will try their very best to get extra money out of you…so make sure you’re prepared to negotiate and stand your ground. 

We paid something like $20-25 USD for the ride to Al-Balad. Though it will probably be a bit more if you go straight to the corniche, as we recommend in the article below. 

If possible, see if you can share a ride with some of your other cruise passengers to divide up the cost. 

You could, hypothetically, walk from the port to the old town in about 50 minutes. But with the heat, I’m not sure you’d want to!  

How to get around Jeddah for this 1-day itinerary  

When we only have a limited stay somewhere, we often like to rent a car to help us make the most of our time. And in our articles, we often recommend other travelers do the same. (Such as our 1-day Mauritius road trip itinerary or our 1-Day Guam itinerary by car )  

However, although we rented a car in Jeddah, we do NOT recommend you rent a car in Jeddah yourself. 

Although we’ve often rented cars in places with pretty crazy drivers ( *cough cough* Armenia *cough cough* ) and absurd traffic, Jeddah was on a whole new level. 

And that’s coming from Rodrigo, who was driving, and has tons of experience driving in these types of places (including his home city of 20 million inhabitants).  

Our experience renting a car in Jeddah was, in a word, terrible. The drivers were basically insane and had little to no disregard for safety, we got terribly lost, and the traffic was horrendous, causing us to almost miss our ship. (I wish I was joking.) 

Realistically, it’ll probably be easiest if you grab a taxi (just don’t forget to negotiate!) between each of your itinerary stops. Taxis are easy enough to find, so you probably don’t have to worry about booking a driver for a day or having them wait for you. 

Other than that, there are some public buses, but the system doesn’t appear to be that extensive. However, I imagine it could get you between the two major itinerary stops (the old town and the corniche) if you were to give it a try. 

If you do manage to figure out the bus system, drop us a comment underneath the article and let us know how it goes! 

Al Tayebat International City Museum Complex & Mosque in Jeddah  

Can you use Uber in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia? 

So, Uber technically exists in Jeddah and other large cities in Saudi Arabia. 

When we tried to use it ourselves to get from the rental car office back to the port, it was a fiasco. We ordered several cars that never came. And then the one who said he was there we were never able to find. 

In our desperation to get back to the ship on time, we couldn’t wait any longer and just had to grab a taxi off the street. 

That said, the prices on Uber are definitely better than normal taxis. Plus, you get to skip the pushy negotiation that you get with the normal taxi drivers. 

So hopefully, you’ll have a better experience than we did if you choose to try Uber. Just make sure you don’t do so if you have somewhere time-sensitive to be! 

What to do with 1 day in Jeddah (1-day Jeddah cruise ship itinerary) 

To be honest, we didn’t feel like there was a ton to do in Jeddah, at least at the moment. 

Currently, Jeddah is undergoing a LOT of construction in what appears to be an attempt to transform into a glittering, modern city that can rival extravagant Dubai. 

Unfortunately, this construction seems to include destroying many of the city’s traditional medinas and winding historic neighborhoods. So it’s hard to say what the city will look like in a few years. 

But for now, I’m going to start by recommending the two “must-see” parts of Jeddah that I would dedicate most of your day to: the famous Jeddah Corniche/waterfront and Al-Balad, the old town. 

Afterwards, you’ll find a list of some additional top attractions that you can add to your Jeddah itinerary however you like. 

1-DAY JEDDAH ITINERARY PART 1: MORNING WALK (OR BIKE!) ALONG THE CORNICHE

Jeddah’s Corniche is a popular waterfront promenade that stretches along the coast of the Red Sea for more than 30 kilometers (18 miles). A stroll along the corniche will take you past sea views, green parks with families picnicking in the shade, and several important city landmarks. 

The Jeddah Corniche. Photo credit: Nick-D – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=86759399

Since Jeddah is painfully hot no matter the time of the year, I recommend heading here first thing in the morning while it’s still a bit cooler. 

We were also told that it’s possible to rent a bike on the corniche, which could be a breezier alternative than seeing the sites on your own two feet. 

Unfortunately, we didn’t figure out exactly how this might work since we had our own car. But perhaps pop into one of the fancy hotels in the area and see if they can direct you to a bike shop. 

There’s tons to see and visit along the waterfront, so you can easily entertain yourself for an entire day. But to make things a little easier, here’s a quick summary of the 7 top attractions and spots to visit on Jeddah’s corniche: 

• The King Fahd Fountain 
• Fakieh Aquarium 
• North Corniche Park  
• Island Mosque 
• Red Sea Mall
• Jeddah Art Promenade
• The Floating Mosque (Al Rahma Mosque) 

Note: you can find each of these spots easily by typing them into Google Maps, though I put them in order from closest to the city center (The King Fahd Fountain) to farthest (The Floating Mosque) to help you plan. 

1-DAY JEDDAH ITINERARY PART 2: EXPLORATION OF AL-BALAD, JEDDAH’S UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE PROTECTED OLD TOWN   

Although many tours and tourists hit up Al-Balad in the morning…we’re going to recommend heading there a little later in the day, when the shops are open and the local souks are bustling with shoppers. 

Al-Balad, Jeddah

Honestly, there aren’t a lot of specific “must-do” landmarks or places in Al-Balad. 

Rather, simply lose yourself among the narrow streets and alleys, admiring the intricate designs and craftsmanship of the traditional wooden architecture and tranquil historic mosques as you go. 

1-DAY JEDDAH ITINERARY: A somewhat odd recommendation…   

If you get the chance, try to fit in a visit to one of the big malls, whether The Red Sea Mall on the corniche, or the Mall of Arabia (the biggest mall in Saudi Arabia, apparently). 

Though I’m not a big shopper myself, whenever I’m in a new country, I always love doing a quick stroll around the local mall to get a good pulse on the local life & social culture.  

As expected, our trip to the Mall of Arabia gave me just that, as it was one of the strangest mismatches of tradition and modernity I’ve ever seen. 

Mall of Arabia, Jeddah

They had just about every international chain store and restaurant you could imagine – from H&M to Gucci to Dunkin’ Donuts to TGI Fridays. (And yes, the clothing stores had trendy, up-to-date clothing like you’d find anyone else…still not fully sure who wears it here in Saudi!) 

But alongside this mass display of modernity and commercialism, you also have local women browsing the shops and eating with their families  – totally covered up, save for a small slit in the fabric for their eyes. 

An odd contrast, to be sure. 

Other optional attractions to add to your 1 day in Jeddah 

Beyond making time for the corniche and Al-Balad, the rest of your day in Jeddah is open to whatever you’d like to do. 

Al Tayebat International City museum complex, Jeddah

So, here are some other ideas of places to visit while in Jeddah : 

• Al Tayebat International City (note: we only saw this from the outside as it appeared to be closed, and we’re not totally clear on whether or not you have to book a tour in advance….but as you can see in the photo above, this museum complex looks beautiful!)  
• Fakieh Aquarium, right on the Corniche 
• The Red Sea Mall or The Mall of Arabia 
• Atallah Happy Land Park or Al Shallal Amusement Parks 
• The Jeddah Planetarium 

In sum…

If you have just one day in Jeddah, I recommend you visit, at minimum, the corniche and Al-Balad, the city’s historic UNESCO old town. 

From there, you can add on whatever interests you, including: 

•  Al Tayebat International City (a beautiful museum complex) 
• Fakieh Aquarium

In conclusion…  

And that’s all there is to it, folks! 

Have you ever been to Jeddah before? Or do you have any questions before your trip? Let us know in the comments area below, and we’ll get back to you. 

Planning your next trip?

 Already reserved your hotel or hostel? If not, our article with The 6 Best and Cheapest Websites to Find & Reserve Accommodation can help you out. You’ll also find some promotions and discount codes .

 Still haven’t booked your plane ticket and want to save big? Take a look at our page with 16 Tips to Save on Flights where you’ll also find the 4 best websites to buy your plane tickets. 

And finally, will you need to rent a car during your trip? Then surely our page with The 5 Best and Cheapest Websites to Compare and Rent Cars Around the World will help you choose the best rental car and find a good deal.

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Is Jeddah Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Saudi Arabia : Safety by City

Jeddah is a city in the Tihamah region of the Hejaz on the coast of the Red Sea and is the major urban center of western Saudi Arabia.

It is the largest city in Makkah Province, the largest seaport on the Red Sea, and the second-largest city in Saudi Arabia after the capital city, Riyadh.

Jeddah is Saudi Arabia’s commercial capital.

Traditional coral houses off Souq al-Alawi in al-Balad Jeddah is also the main entry point, either by air or sea, for pilgrims making the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca and Medina, the two sacred cities of Islam.

Both are a few hours inland from Jeddah.

• Warnings & Dangers in Jeddah

OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM

Jeddah is mainly safe but you should respect local rules and discover information about the political situations before the visit. Disrespecting to local moral codes will be followed by severe punishments.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW

Public transport often goes not by schedule. Taxis are a common and safe way of getting around Jeddah.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM

Pickpockets are especially active during pilgrimages and in touristic places. Avoid wear on yourself too much jewelry and keep an eye on your pockets.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM

Flooding is the most common natural hazard in Jeddah. Be informed about natural hazards in this region before your visit.

MUGGING RISK: LOW

Usually, robbery and kidnapping are not common in Jeddah, but on the outskirts of the city and especially if you are a woman you need to be careful.

TERRORISM RISK: HIGH

Due to its position as one of the country's main cities and proximity to Mecca, terrorist attacks may occur in Jeddah. Usually, they are not aimed at tourists, but you can easily find yourself in the midst of such a skirmish.

SCAMS RISK: LOW

There is practically no fraud, but be careful with credit cards at ATM, there is a slight chance of scam.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM

Women traveling to Jeddah should be very cautioned, wear an abaya at all times or very modest clothes, that is cover all the body. Not recommended being alone in most places.

• So... How Safe Is Jeddah Really?

Saudi Arabia was one of the most closed countries for foreigners in the world.

Now the country opens for travelers.

But you should know: many of the Saudis do not like foreigners, especially Westerners.

Jeddah still falls under Islamic law so travelers should read, understand, and follow the guidelines in the Saudi Arabia article to stay out of trouble.

The city is safe but if you do any offenses against Sharia Law can still get you penalties up to death.

Local women normally wear a hijab (headscarf) and abaya (long black overgarment) to cover their heads and entire bodies. Women travelers to Jeddah are also required to wear abayas, but this is not strictly enforced.

Alcohol is forbidden in Saudi Arabia. Corporal punishment for Westerners happens to drink alcohol.

Follow local media and be alert to local and regional developments which might trigger public disturbances.

Standards of driving are poor and there are a high number of serious accidents.

You should wear seat belts at all times.

Oil infrastructure remains a possible terrorist target.

It is dangerous to be critical of Saudi Arabia, especially when talking to locals in Jeddah.

But you can still enjoy your time in Jeddah if you are polite and do not violate the cultural rules.

• How Does Jeddah Compare?
• Useful Information

On September 27, 2019, Saudi Arabia introduced an e-visa program, allowing people from 49 countries to visit, by applying for a visa ahead of their trip or on arrival. Single entry visa allows a full month stay, while multiple-entry visas allow staying for up to three months. A valid passport is a must.

The Saudi riyal is the currency of Saudi Arabia. It is abbreviated SAR (Saudi Arabian Riyal). It is subdivided into 100 halalas.

The best times to visit Jeddah for ideal weather are from January to March. In Jeddah, the average temperatures vary somewhat. It feels hot for most of the year with a very low chance of rain throughout the year.

Jeddah has an international airport - King Abdulaziz International Airport is the largest airport in the Kingdom and is well served by airlines from around the world.

Travel Insurance

The travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country. Make sure you got it before starting your journey, the customs officer may ask for it.

Jeddah Weather Averages (Temperatures)

• Average High/Low Temperature

Saudi Arabia - Safety by City

• Where to Next?

6 Reviews on Jeddah

Jeddah is very safe.

Very far from the truth. As a female, I have never felt unsafe in Jeddah, if not I feel more safe here than some of the most ‘safest cities in the world’. Follow the laws, and you’ll be fine. Also, very untrue that Saudis do not like Westerners; locals are very generous and kind.

TERRORISM Really???

I from Jeddah and my family lived since 1990 And never witnessed TERRORISM The safest country ever

Mostly safe, but I felt uneasy

The rise in terrorism in Jeddah has kept me awhile for several years. Last I was there, I witnessed an altercation and I have not been able to go back. While the city is beautiful and I have family from there, it is safer in other areas and worth traveling a bit out of the way.

Check your info first

I am American, lived in Jeddah for almost 7 years. I was never unsafe. I was never threatened in any way, at all.

In fact, no American covers their head, and now no abayas. I left my car running, because of the heat. Terrorism? I never encountered it.

I’ve been to Jeddah twice for a couple of weeks each time. As a female American, I never felt unsafe. In fact, I felt like the Saudi’s I encountered were extremely welcoming. I never wore a head scarf and rarely wore an abaya but did dress conservatively.

is this post is for real?

Are you serious?

Jeddah/ Saudi Arabia is the safest nation on the planet. Whether you are a foreigner or belong to any religious belief, you will never feel insecure in this country.

Even a female traveler can go anywhere she wants because local police and country law are so strict that not a single person will do anything wrong with foreigners.

Plan your journey and enjoy your stay here; Saudis are now more flexible in terms of norms and traditions, so there will be no problems.

Furthermore, what is pickpocketing? I’ve never witnessed somebody steal from another person in my entire life.

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Article Contents

• Jeddah : Safety by City
• Overall Risk
• Transport & Taxis Risk
• Pickpockets Risk
• Natural Disasters Risk
• Mugging Risk
• Terrorism Risk
• Women Travelers Risk
• Weather Averages (Temperatures)
• User Reviews
• Share Your Experience

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Travel Zone Jeddah

Find complete details of Travel Zone Jeddah Jeddah with branchesksa.com – Saudi Arabia’s Largest Branches directory. Travel Zone Jeddah is a Jeddah based company offering services / Products in Jeddah as well as in other major cities of Saudi Arabia. You can contact the company directly at 012 284 6171.

Travel Zone Jeddah Contact Details

More branches of travel agents in saudi arabia, travel agents in saudi arabia promises agency for travel, tourism and public services najran.

Address: Alkhalidiyyah, Najran

Contact Number:

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Address: King Fahd Rd, Al Masani, Al-Madina

Travel Agents in Saudi Arabia Saptco Saudi Arabia Public Transport Company Layla

Address: Al Salhiyah, Layla

Contact Number: 011 682 0928

Travel Agents in Saudi Arabia Mirage Travel and Tours Jeddah

Address: Ar Rawdah, Jeddah

Contact Number: 012 663 4488

Travel Agents in Saudi Arabia Dia Ambassadors Travel Agency Dammam

Address: Al Anud, Dammam

Contact Number: 013 833 4372

Travel Agents in Saudi Arabia Golden Horses Travel and Tourism Agency Abha

Address: Khamis Mushait Abha

Contact Number: 050 587 8238

Travel Agents in Saudi Arabia Mecca Is The City Of Umrah Services Dammam

Address: Al Souq, Dammam

Contact Number: 056 124 6720

Travel Agents in Saudi Arabia Anan Travel and Tourism Sakaka

Address: Al-Ma'aqlah, Sakaka

Travel Agents in Saudi Arabia Tas Helat Holidays Travel Riyadh

Address: Abdullah Ibn Sulaiman Al Hamadan, Al Olaya, Riyadh 12241 3591 Abdallah Ibn Soleiman Al Hamadani, 3591, Al Olaya, Riyadh

Contact Number: 011 463 1712

Travel Agents in Saudi Arabia Rekaz Al-Muttakin Company Travel Agency Mecca

Address: King Abdul Aziz Rd, Al Mashair, Mecca

Contact Number: 050 583 5551

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Saudi Arabia

Warnings and insurance.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice . 

Areas where FCDO advises against travel  

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against FCDO advice. 

Saudi Arabia-Yemen border  

FCDO advises against:  

• all travel to within 10km of the border with Yemen 
• all but essential travel to areas between 10km and 80km from the border with Yemen 

Abha International Airport  

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Abha International Airport in Asir province.  

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel .

Arriving in Saudi Arabia from Sudan 

If you’re arriving in Saudi Arabia from Sudan, contact the Saudi authorities for the latest entry clearance procedures. See the latest  Sudan travel advice  for information about how to leave Port Sudan.

Before you travel 

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide and see support for British nationals abroad for information about specific travel topics. 

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated. 

Travel insurance 

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency. 

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Saudi Arabia Travel Advisory

Travel advisory january 24, 2024, saudi arabia - level 3: reconsider travel.

Updated after periodic review to provide information on the risk of arrest due to social media use and the importation of prohibited items.

Reconsider travel to Saudi Arabia due to  the threat of missile and drone attacks.   Exercise increased caution in Saudi Arabia due to  terrorism, the risk of arrest based on social media activity, and importation of prohibited items.  Some areas have increased risk.  Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do not travel to the following locations due to the threat of  missile and drone attacks  and  terrorism :

• Within 50 miles of the Saudi-Yemen border, as well as the cities of Abha, Jizan, Najran, and Khamis Mushayt;
• Abha airport;
• Qatif in the Eastern Province and its suburbs, including Awamiyah.

Country Summary : U.S. government personnel under Chief of Mission responsibility must adhere to the above travel restrictions.  As such, the U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in these locations.

Missile and drone attacks perpetrated by Iran and Iran-supported militant groups have occurred as recently as September 2023.  The Islamic Republic of Iran has in the past supplied Yemen-based Houthis and regional proxy groups with weapons to conduct destructive and sometimes lethal attacks using drones, missiles, and rockets against a variety of Saudi sites, including critical infrastructure, civilian airports, military bases, and energy facilities throughout the country, as well as vessels in Red Sea shipping lanes.  Past attacks were aimed at targets throughout Saudi Arabia including Riyadh, Jeddah, Dhahran, Jizan, Khamis Mushayt, the civilian airport in Abha, Al Kharj, military installations in the south, as well as oil and gas facilities.

Debris from intercepted drones and missiles has also represented a significant risk to civilian areas and populations in the recent past.  Militant groups have threatened to conduct attacks against locations in Saudi Arabia.  U.S. citizens living and working near military bases and critical civilian infrastructure, particularly near the border with Yemen, are at heightened risk if missile, drone, or rocket attacks reoccur.

Terrorism continues to be a concern in Saudi Arabia.  Attacks can occur with little or no warning.  Past attacks have targeted tourist locations, large gatherings, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities.  Terrorists are also known to time attacks around major holidays and/or in response to military operations.  Terrorists have targeted both Saudi and international interests, mosques and other religious sites (both Sunni and Shia), and places frequented by U.S. citizens.

Be advised that social media commentary – including past comments – which Saudi authorities may deem critical, offensive, or disruptive to public order, could lead to arrest .  This may include posting, re-posting, or liking comments about Saudi institutions, policies, and public life.  U.S. citizens have been convicted for social media activity under Saudi laws concerning cybercrime, terrorism, and disrupting public order.  Punishment for social media activity has included prison sentences of up to 45 years in some cases.  Saudi courts do not necessarily consider the timeframe of the posts or the location from which they were made to be material to these cases.

The importation of drugs (including marijuana), drug paraphernalia, alcohol, weapons, pork, or any materials that could be considered pornographic or suggestive, is prohibited.   Penalties for drug possession, consumption, and trafficking are severe by U.S. standards.  An extensive list of banned items is available on our Saudi Arabia country information page .

Due to risks to civil aviation operating within the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman region, including Saudi Arabia, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued an advisory Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM).  For more information U.S. citizens should consult the  Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices .

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Saudi Arabia.

If you decide to travel to Saudi Arabia:

• Visit our website for information on  travel to high-risk areas .
• Stay alert in large crowds and/or locations frequented by foreign nationals.
• Obtain comprehensive medical insurance that includes medical evacuation.
• Review local laws and conditions before traveling, including our Saudi Arabia country information on arrest notification and the Department of State’s general information on arrests of U.S. citizens abroad .
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Follow the U.S. Embassy in Saudi Arabia on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report   for Saudi Arabia.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Yemen Border, Abha airport, and Qatif in the Eastern Province and its suburbs, including Awamiyah – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Militants in Yemen have attacked Saudi border towns and other sites in Saudi Arabia with armed drones, missiles, and rockets .  Civilians that are near the border with Yemen are especially at risk.   Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Saudi Arabia, including in Qatif.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens within 50 miles of the Saudi-Yemen border as U.S. government personnel and their families are restricted from travel to this area.

Visit our website for information on  travel to high-risk areas

Travel Advisory Levels

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