2-Day Itinerary for Traveling in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Day 1: Explore Jeddah’s History and Culture

Morning

• Al-Balad: Start your day by exploring the historic district of Al-Balad (9:00 am - 12:00 pm), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through the narrow streets and alleys, taking in the sights and sounds of this ancient neighborhood.
• Al-Reml Mosque: Visit the beautiful Al-Reml Mosque (11:00 am), one of the oldest mosques in Jeddah.

Afternoon

• King Fahad’s Fountain: Head to the King Fahad’s Fountain (1:00 pm - 3:00 pm), a stunning artificial water feature that is a must-see.
• Corniche Walk: Take a leisurely walk along the Corniche, a picturesque waterfront promenade with great views of the Red Sea.

Evening

• Dinner at Najd Village Restaurant: Enjoy traditional Saudi cuisine for dinner at Najd Village Restaurant (7:00 pm - 9:00 pm), which serves authentic dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
• Walk around Al-Balad at Night: Take a stroll around Al-Balad in the evening, when the streets are less crowded and the historic buildings take on a romantic glow.

Day 2: Shopping and Relaxation

Morning

• Red Sea Mall: Spend the morning shopping at Red Sea Mall (9:00 am - 12:00 pm), one of the largest malls in Jeddah.
• Dunes Cafe: Take a break for lunch at Dunes Cafe, which serves international cuisine with great views of the sea.

Afternoon

• Jeddah Fountain: Visit the Jeddah Fountain (2:00 pm - 4:00 pm), another beautiful artificial water feature that is a popular spot for photos.
• Relax on the Beach: End your day by relaxing on the beach at one of Jeddah’s many public beaches, such as Al-Hamra Beach.

Where to Stay

• Movenpick Hotel Jeddah: This 5-star hotel offers comfortable rooms and a great location in the heart of the city.
• InterContinental Jeddah: Another high-end option with excellent service and amenities.

Getting Around

• Taxis: Taxis are widely available, but be sure to use a licensed taxi service to avoid scams.
• Ride-hailing Apps: Uber and Careem operate in Jeddah, making it easy to get around without a car.

Things to Know

• Respect Local Customs: Saudi Arabia is a conservative country; dress modestly and respect local customs.
• Language: Arabic is the official language, but many Saudis speak English, especially in tourist areas.
• Weather: Jeddah has a hot desert climate; be sure to stay hydrated and protected from the sun.

Tips

• Haggle at Markets: When shopping at markets or souks, be prepared to haggle over prices.
• Try Local Cuisine: Don’t miss out on trying traditional Saudi dishes like kebabs, shawarma, and mandi.
• Learn Some Arabic Phrases: Show respect by learning basic Arabic phrases like “as-salamu alaykum” (peace be upon you) and “shukraan” (thank you).

Transportation

• Abdulaziz Road: This major road connects Jeddah to the rest of Saudi Arabia, making it easy to get around.
• Jeddah International Airport: The airport receives international flights from all over the world; take a taxi or use ride-hailing apps to get to your destination.

Other Recommendations

• Visit the National Museum: Learn about Saudi history and culture at this excellent museum.
• Take a Desert Safari: Experience the thrill of exploring the desert with a guided tour.