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Jeddah is Different
Jeddah is the perfect blend of old and modern. From the magnificent Old Jeddah, Al Balad district to the new five star luxury Jeddah Yact Club and Marinia, Jeddah has the best of both worlds. One of Jeddah’s most notable features is its close proximity to the Red Sea. The picturesque Jeddah Waterfront offers a great picnic spot where visitors can relax, enjoy the breathtaking views of the Red Sea and discover the famous Al Rahma mosque, otherwise known as the Floating Mosque. Jeddah is rightly referred to as the ‘Mermaid of the Red Sea’.
The motto of the city is ‘Jeddah is Different’. This is in line with the truly diverse and cosmopolitan nature of the city, which features spectacular events like the Formula 1 Grand Prix. Once you visit Jeddah, you get to truly appreciate the distinct vibe of the city. It is a lively and interesting destination that will offer you much to do. Its rich history and historical significance will make you want to spend more and more time here and revisit the famous Jeddah sign.
History
According to the Ministry of Hajj, Jeddah was founded as a small fishing village around 2500 years ago. The port city has held great significance not only due to commerce and trade but also due to the fact that during the period of Caliph Uthman bin Affan, it served as a port for pilgrims heading to Makkah to perform Hajj.
The city was fortified in the 16th century by the Turks. A stone wall was built to defend the city against the Portuguese. Since Jeddah remained under Ottoman rule until 1915, there is a strong Turkish influence visible in the city architecture.
Geography
The long seashore is one of the most prominent features of the city. Benefiting from this abundant seashore, the city of Jeddah built a 20 mile, three-part corniche. The New Jeddah Corniche offers breathtaking views of the Red Sea and also offers many recreational facilities that visitors can benefit from. Keeping in line with the motto ‘Jeddah is Different’, even the geography of the region offers a break from the endless sprawling desert of Saudi Arabia. The beauty of the Red Sea enchants visitors and beckons them to come back for more.
Jeddah is the 100th largest city in the world by land area. It is situated on a coastal plain in the lower Hijaz mountains. The climate of the city is classified as arid and it retains its warmth even in the colder months.
Cultural Life
The province of Makkah is a perfect blend of rich, centuries-old culture and traditions along with modern architecture and a lively way of life. You can find old souks as well as skyscrapers that are reaching for the clouds.
Visitors seeking old architecture will thoroughly enjoy visiting Old Jeddah, Al Balad. You can get the feeling of travelling back in time by strolling through the narrow alleyways and soaking in the magnificently coloured Mashrabiat and Rawashaan. UNESCO added the historical Al Balad district to the list of World Heritage sites.
Being a multi-ethnic cosmopolitan city, Jeddah has a great traditional cuisine that takes its influence from various cultures. Fast food fans would be thrilled to know that the famous Albaik chain originated and is headquartered in Jeddah. You can also find hundreds of the best Restaurants in Jeddah on Welcome Saudi.
Popular Attractions
There is no shortage of things to do and sites to visit in Jeddah. If we start from museums, you can visit the Nassif House Museum and the Matbouli House Museum. The Jeddah fountain, also known as the King Fahd’s Fountain is a popular attraction. The jet of water rises to an incredible height of 853 feet. At night this stream of water is illuminated and offers an unforgettable sight.
New Jeddah Corniche and the Jeddah waterfront offer great spots where you can spend the entire day just soaking in the magnificent sights of the sea. There are numerous activities offered in these areas. Tourists can enjoy the fresh seafood and do some shopping. You can also take a look at the aquatic species that prowl the Red Sea in the purposefully designed Fakieh Aquarium. If you are looking for beautiful fine dining restaurants then you can try the Restaurants at Jeddah Yacht Club.
One of the most historical places in Jeddah is the Baab Makkah or Makkah Gate. This open-air market truly comes to life after sunset. You can catch a glimpse of the true essence of Jeddah city by strolling around these souks. The gate itself (Baab Makkah), is a great work of architecture and is a popular attraction for visitors. Whether you’re looking for history or enjoyment, you never run out of places to go in Jeddah.
