Best Places to Visit in Jeddah: A Guide for Seoers and Travel Enthusiasts

Jeddah, located on the coast of the Red Sea, is a city steeped in history and culture. With its unique blend of old and new, Jeddah offers a variety of attractions for visitors to explore. Here is a comprehensive guide to the best places to visit in Jeddah, designed to help SEOers attract more visitors and to enrich the travel experience for enthusiasts.

Cornish Beaches

Cornish Beaches are a must-visit attraction in Jeddah. Among them, Obhur Beach at the extreme north end and El Saif Beach at the extreme south end are standout favorites, open to the public for free. These beaches have undergone significant development in recent years, with millions of dollars invested in their beautification. Private beaches also offer a range of amenities including clean beaches, privacy, freshwater swimming pools, restaurants, and rental SCUBA gear for diving. My family and I used to spend entire afternoons here, sometimes staying until late evening, especially on Fridays.

Bay La Sun

Bay La Sun, part of the King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC), requires online permission to enter. This well-developed beach offers a unique experience with a section requiring an entry fee but allowing for sunbathing or swimming while adhering to proper beach attire.

Exploring Balad Old City

Old Balad is always bustling, especially during Ramadan. The best option for visitors is to pay and park. Visiting in the evening is recommended due to its lesser crowds. The historic district in Balad is rich in cultural and architectural heritage and reflects the city's long-standing history.

Landmarks and Attractions

Several landmarks and attractions stand out in Jeddah. The Tallest Flag and The Tallest Fountain are iconic landmarks. Al Rahma Mosque, also known as the Floating Mosque, is a popular site for picnics and barbecues. Faqeeh Aquarium is a must-visit, showcasing marine life with unforgettable exhibits. The Moon Valley offers a unique trekking experience through the desert, and camping at Usfan on the outskirts of Jeddah is an adventurous choice. Historical sites like the Tafla well and Turkish watch tower are also worth exploring.

Entertainment and Leisure

Jeddah offers plenty of options for entertainment and leisure. Moon Valley trekking and the possibility to camp under the stars are popular among nature enthusiasts. Shopping malls provide a variety of high-end brands, and the city’s food culture is diverse and delicious, with an array of Halal cuisines available from local markets to international food courts. Seafood lovers can visit Dahban, a small fishing village, for fresh seafood.

Convenience and Accessibility

For those interested in religious travel, both the Grand Mosque of Makkah and the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah are within a reasonable drive or accessible via the High-speed HarLine Railways (HHR). Jeddah is also a strategic gateway to the world, making it easy for travelers to explore different cultures and cuisines.

Tips for Visitors and Residents

While visiting Jeddah, it's important to be aware of a few precautions. The area is subject to frequent security checks due to its strategic importance, so always carry your passport or resident work permit. Traffic is a significant issue, particularly on main arteries, and visitors should be cautious, especially in the Old City at night. Scams such as pickpocketing or thefts from wallets and mobiles are rare but possible.