The Jeddah Science Oasis
True to its name, the Science oasis is an oasis for those interested in science, Math and human body the exhibitions held here are of great interest to children and is an excellent opportunity for the whole family to enjoy..
Saudi Arabia
Jeddah
Jeddah, the second largest city of the Kingdom after Riyadh, has long been established as the trading hub of Saudi Arabia and has earned itself the title of being the commercial capital of the country. It is also the main gate through which the Muslim pilgrims arrive for the religious Hajj or Umra performance. Comprising of over 1500km, the population of more than one and a half million reflects foreign influence as this city is also the home of the majority of expats. The city offers shopping centers, souks, restaurants, corniche on the Red Sea coast, scuba diving along with the beautiful King Fahad Fountain which is a magnificent sight to
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A CLOSER LOOK
Top places to visit
The Al-Shallal Theme Park
Roller coasters, ice skating ring and the Amazon ride comprising of life size figures of animals and waterfall and lagoon recreated is a must see affair for the family. Several restaurants are present catering to the taste bud of all ages.
Sail Island
To escape the heat of the city this Sail Island in the Red sea area is the best retreat for the family where they can eat in the extensive food courts, swimming pool, use children’s area or see the performances in the performance area. The name is derived from the 24 meter high sails that cover the pool and seating area.
Al-Balad (Old Town)
The top sight of the city, Old Al-Balad city is the reflection of historic Jeddah. Although the wall has been torn down years ago, it represents the way of living of old arabs in its buildings and the tile and woodwork done in them, if you are interested in old architecture and workmanship on wood and calligraphy, this is the place you have to see. You will also find souks and coral houses in this area. Nafees House is a magnificent mansion comprising of 106 rooms is a symbol of Jeddah’s rich past. It is now a cultural center in which you can attend exhibitions and lectures. The artwork in the rooms is a cause of fascination for a lot of tourist
Corniche
The Red sea Corniche offers a spectacular view of the sea, lined with the shopping street you can get good bargain of gold at the Gold souk, in the Tahliya. You can also witness the breathtaking King Fahd Fountain which throws colored water up in the air. It is recommended to see this at night as the view is spectacular at that time.
Scuba diving
Interestingly, the locals have no interest in scuba diving but the expats and tourist are drawn towards the diving range which are around 1 hour out to sea by a speedboat. Since the Red sea’s temperature drops to 22°C, it is advisable to wear a 5mm wetsuit with a hood to proctect oneself fro the chilly winters. Desert Sea Drivers Phone: 966-2- 6561807 Price: SR150 Service: Gear rental, transfer to and from central Jeddah,Fast and comfortable dive boats, Lunch. Also offer on site accommodation and can arrange for tourist visas for diver groups SR 200/250/300 for 1/2/3 boat dives. Prices are subjected to change for confirmation please call the company.
Parks
• Sail Island. A retreat from the blazing sun is the sail island in Jeddah. It is a water park covered with several sail like tents and offers you to enjoy the pool and recreational facilities. It’s a favorite amongst children. • Jungle Land. An intriguing park, with rollercoaster’s, a circus, and bungee jumping • Al-Shalal Theme Park, Corniche Roller coasters, ice skating ring and the Amazon ride comprising of life size figures of animals and waterfall and lagoon recreated is a must see affair for the family. Several restaurants are present catering to the taste bud of all ages.
Jeddah Al Khozam Museum
The Khuzam Palace belonged to King Abdul Aziz bin Abdul Rahman Al-Saud and was converted into a museum in 1995. It contains six separate exhibits ranging from the pre-Islamic period to modern day Jeddah.
Naseef House
The old Jeddah architecture and the important artifacts which are stored at the Naseef House make it one of the most important museums in Jeddah. The Naseefs were one of the most powerful and wealthy merchant clans, so important in fact that when the late King and Founder of Saudi Arabia, King Abdulaziz,visited Jeddah, he stayed here. Address: Historic downtown area - AL-Bald
Al-Taybat City Museum
The al-Taybat City Museum for International Civilization is a grand palace containing 300 rooms filled with items collected by a globetrotting local merchant. The collection ranges from gold, manuscripts, furniture, pottery, Islamic manuscripts and more. Groups of less than10 people cannot enter on their own, so either stand outside the museum and wait to join one, or telephone in advance to get added to somebody elses.
Muslim travel planner
Full guidePlan a Muslim-friendly trip in Jeddah
THE LOCAL TABLE
Halal restaurants in Jeddah
Papaya International
Cuisine: continental Location: Next to Sawary Mall, Parallel to Malik and Sultan Timings: 10:00 am to 12:00 am Phone: 02 2753425
Caffe Aroma
Cuisine: fusion food Location: Al Hamra District, near Intercontinental Hotel Timings: 10:00 am to 01:00 pm Phone: 02 6605160
Yildizlar
Cuisine: Turkish, Syrian, Lebanese and Palestinian food Location: Andalus Street, front of Saudi American Bank, Al Hamra Area Timings: 1:00 pm to 12:30 am Phone: 2 6531150
Al-Nakheel
Cuisine: Traditional Food Location: Corniche Road Timings: 09.00 am to 02.30 am Phone: 02 6066644
Bice
Cuisine: Italian Location: Jeddah Hilton Timings: 1:00 pm - 12:30 am Phone: 02 6590000
Barrio Fiesta
Cuisine: Filipino Location: Al-Mahmal Centre top floor King Abdul Aziz St, Mahallet Al-Yemen
Alfalah
Cuisine: Arabic, Filipino and Chinese Location: off King Abdul Aziz St Timings: 07:30-23:30 Sat-Thu, 16:00-23:30 Fri Phone: +966 2 647 4974
Al Baik
Cuisine: Fast Food-broasted chicken Location: 25 branches in Jeddah
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Where to stay in Jeddah
Jeddah Hilton
A magnificent 5 star luxury hotel, Hilton Jeddah houses 446 rooms and is the largest hotel in Saudi Arabia. It is equipped with health club, swimming pools, 6 restaurants, Spa massage, conference and wedding hall and business center. Cribs and children menu are also available on request. Features include efficient house keeping, internet access and electronic smoke detector safe amongst numerous other amenities.
Sheraton Jeddah
Located in the most happening North Corniche, overlooking the Red Sea, Sheraton Jeddah has a lot to offer to make your trip as comfortable and memorable as it could get. It is near to the airport as well as the latest shopping malls boasting international brands. Rooms offered are categorized into Classic, Club and Suits which have modern amenities like anti allergic pillows, high speed internet facility, balconies with a magnificent view. Moreover it offers restaurants with Chinese, international and oriental cuisines along with outdoor pool, gym, and tennis and squash courts.
Le meridien Jeddah
Located in the heart of the city, Le Méridien offers the main shopping and business areas as its neighborhood. The 284 spacious rooms are stylish and overlook the sea. The hotel presents to you business center, internet in the room (SAR125/day), Fax machines, smoke detector rooms and many more services.
Park Hyatt Hotel
Unquestionably one of the most state of the art hotels in Jeddah, Hyatt boasts of spacious guestrooms equipped with business and entertainment gadgetry. Most of the rooms have the unmatchable view of the sea and the King Fahd Fountain, the highest fountain in the world. It offers excellent spa and wellness facilities, innovative restaurants, marina yatch along with restaurants featuring cuisines of all kinds.
Movenpick Jeddah
One of the recently constructed hotels, this 140 room building offers ballroom, boardroom, and meeting rooms. The restaurants offer for the first time in KSA the Indochinese fine dinning. Wireless internet is available in all guestrooms. Sauna, Jacuzzi and cardiovascular machines are included in the various features of the hotel.
Al Billad Hotel
Fabulous tropical garden, in house bakery, lovely covered veranda and 20 upstairs bungalows along with guest rooms are what give Al Billad it’s much loved away from the crowd feel. The services include 24hours free wireless, direct dial telephone and what’s more the facility has recently been renovated with modern furniture.
Al Rehab Hotel
A good value for money, Al Rehab is a clean and decently decorated hotel. All guest rooms have TV and Fridge. 24 hour housekeeping is also available.
Al Nakheel Hotel
The favorite of the budget bunch, Al-Nakheel offers well furnished and well maintained rooms. It is recommended you chck a few rooms before booking one as they vary in sizes.
Al Barraq Hotel
Although smaller, but reasonably well maintained hotel, Barraq offers a great value for money to its guests.
Al Azhar Hotel
Located near the center of old Jeddah, Al Azhar offers good quality food, nice rooms, a small gym and pool and a restaurant with a good view.
History and today in Jeddah
Annual Temperature
a- January: Low: 19 °C High: 29 °C; b- February: Low: 18 °C High : 29 °C; c- March: Low: 19 °C High: 29°C
Exchange Rates
The Saudi Riyal (SR) is the unit of currency in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Public Holidays
- 9th- 12th Sept- Eid ul Fitr Holiday * - 25th Sept- National Day - 15th-18th November- Eid ul Azha Holiday*
Jeddah Residents
The hub of most expatriates in the country, Jeddah is the most cosmopolitan city of Saudi Arabia. Its population comprises of various nationalities giving the place a life very different from any other city in the Kingdom. It is also the gateway to Mecca and an escape from the general dry heat of neighbor cities for visitors. Life of the residents revolve around shopping, eating and activities around the Red Sea.
Visa Information
Visitors are required to have a valid passport with at least 6 months validity and appropriate visa. It is mandatory for all nationalities, except for the GCC countries and transit visitors, to have a visa in order to enter the Kingdom. Visas can fall under the following categories: • Business • Tourist • Transit • Residency
When to go
Jeddah has long summers lasting 8-10 months, usually from March to September. Being a coastal city the humidity in summers rises as high as 98% therefore it’s not advisable to visit it in summers especially in June and July when the temperature rises on average to 40 degrees and nights are 30 degrees. Winters in Jeddah are much more pleasant. They last from November to March and the calm tropical winds make it enjoyable for tourist to visit the city. Therefore if you don’t like the heat it is best to visit Jeddah in winters. If you are planning to go to Jeddah for Hajj purpose, check the lunar calendar for the month of Zilhajj. For Umra the best time is Ramadan when the atmosphere is best for religious retreat.
Fast Facts
-Location: Jeddah is on the Red Sea in western Saudi Arabia; -Dialing code:: +966-2; -Emergency numbers: Police 999 Fire 998 Ambulance 997 Traffic Accidents 993
Jeddah Today
Jeddah, the second largest city of the Kingdom after Riyadh, has long been established as the trading hub of Saudi Arabia and has earned itself the title of being the commercial capital of the country. It is also the main gate through which the Muslim pilgrims arrive for the religious Hajj or Umra performance. Comprising of over 1500km, the population of more than one and a half million reflects foreign influence as this city is also the home of the majority of expats. The city offers shopping centers, souks, restaurants, corniche on the Red Sea coast, scuba diving along with the beautiful King Fahad Fountain which is a magnificent sight to watch especially at night when it sends colored water as high as two hundred and sixty meters.
Jeddah History
Jeddah’s literal meaning “grandmother” refers to the grandmother of mankind Eve and tradition says that she was buried in Jeddah. This itself tells that this city has been there ever since the presence of mankind. Old Al-Balad city is the face of historic Jeddah. Though now in dire need of maintenance, it still serves as tourist attraction with its old architecture and traditional multi storied building. Gabil Market and Nafees House reflect the old days this city has seen. This area of Jeddah is mostly occupied by the poor class.
Useful information
Shopping
Tahlia Center
Situated at the Al Tahlia Street, the Tahlia center is one of the posh shopping arcade where malls and plazas are bunched in form of a shoppers paradise. Trademark items here are ladies wear and accessories of brands all over the world. Besides the international and national retail outlets you will find enormous food court here which is a relief to relax after the exhausting shopping. To attract the kids there is also a theme park/
Red Sea Mall
Anchored by the Danube chain store, this tri storied mall is a welcome additional to the series of malls in Jeddah. It has trams to facilitate customers around the mall, impressive fountains, food court and kids area long with a parking space of 4000 cars.
Coral Mall
A newly constructed modern shopping home, the two level shopping center by Midad Group containing with 50 fashion shops (Armani, Calvin Klein, Miss Sixty) and cafes (Second Cup) is a feast for shoppers. Coral Mall P.O.Box: 6782 Jeddah 21452 Saudi Arabia Tel: +966 (2) 661-2484
Aziz Mall
One of the leading destination for international class shopping, Aziz Mall, offers a selection of international and local brands across all categories and price points. Aziz Mall Address: Prince Majid Road, Faisaliyah P.O. Box 100604 Jeddah 21311 Saudi Arabia
Mall of Arabia
This three storied mall with a three thousand car parking facility hosts more than 300 shops including Geant hypermart, Snow Village and eateries like Chilli’s and Fuddruckers. It claims to be the biggest shopping mall in Saudi Arabia and is a must see for tourist. Hours of Operation Saturday to Thursday: 9:00am - 10:00pm Friday: 10:00am - 12:00am Physical Address Al Madinah Road, Al Nuzha Jeddah, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
Serafi MegaMall
Located in the prime area, at the intersection of Tahliah Street and Siteen Street Serafi Mega mall has something for every age. Besides the numerous retail outlets it also has a family entertainment hall “Moon Toon” on the 2nd and 3rd level that contains variety of games like 3D theater, video games, Ice Skating ring and indoor roller coaster. Teenagers and young adults can enjoy IN10SO, the Bachleors car and entertainment center, which is located on the 2nd and 3rd floor of the maal, has direct access from the 2nd level paking. This center contains attration like car racing, bowling, billiards, internetcafe, wall climibmuing and a host of video games.
Gabel Street
If you are looking for local and cheap items Gabel Street is your destination to go. Situiated at the Al Balad town, it is not only an ttraction for the visitors but also a favorite for the locals. You can find soviniours along with household items, electronic purchases, spices and perfumes in this bustling shopping street. You can also find oriental rugs from other asian countries like Afghanistan and iran from here. Be sure to bargain for your purchases
Signature sights in Jeddah
Marine Science College Museum
The Marine Museum has a collection of live and fossilized fish on display. The Museum is convieniently located next to the Red Sea, so that college students and the like can use their boats fully equipped for travel, studies and research.
Museum of King Abdulaziz University
This double story museum contains a large collection of the possessions of the King Abdulaziz Address: King Abdulaziz University
Safeyeh bin Zagr Museum
The 8 wing museum houses documents and paintings that preserve the traditions, heritage and customs prevalent in Saudi Arabia.
Abdulraouf Khalil Museum
A mosque, a citadel and respective houses of Saudi Arabian, Islamic, International and Public Heritage make up the Abdulraof Khalil Museum. There are a total of 19 units and houses and 15 fountains all around the vicinity, making it an interesting area to walk around in.
Home Arts Museum
The museum was opened in 1997 and has a large number of colourful art pieces, paintings and artifacts on display, some of which date back 70 years. Address: The end of Palestine Street in the direction of the sea directly to the gate of No. (11) of the Center for Aljmjum
Festivals and events in Jeddah
Jeddah Summer Festival
An annual event since the year 2000, Jeddah summer festival has been taking place in June and July to encourage tourism. Attractions include fireworks, live music and food. At times workmanship of goldsmiths is also showcased in order to increase the revenue of the city,
Ramadan
This occasion takes place in the month of Ramadan which is the 9th month of the Islamic calendar. Muslims fast from dawn to dusk.
Eid Ul Fitr Festival
Jeddah’s main and most popular festival is Eid Ul Fitr Festival. This takes place in the month of Ramadan and is a 3-4 day long festival. People visit their loved ones and the city gets very crowded during the Ramadan and Eid time.
Eid Ul Azha
The Festival of Sacrifice “ Eid ul Azha” is celebrated to remember the act of obedience to Allah by Hazrat Abraham of readily agreeing to sacrifice his son Ismail. Muslims slaughter Cow, Goat, Sheep and camel and distribute the meat to relatives and poor. This day is celebrated n the 10th of Zil Hajj.
Jeddah masjids and Muslim travel
King Abdullaziz Mosque and setting area
The King Abdul Aziz Mosque is perhaps one of the oldest mosques in Jeddah, with a minaret that was built in 7 AH. The open central area is built in a way to allow open-air ventilation. The mosque has been renovated several times.
Mosque
Jeddah Saudi Arabia
Mosque
Jeddah Saudi Arabia
Al Fath Mosque
Al Fath Mosque
Princess Fahda Mosque
Princess Fahda Mosque
Tayba Mosque
Tayba Mosque
Transportation
Buses
Buses are not a commonly-used means of transportation in Jeddah even though you can ride one from certain main streets to downtown
Taxi
There are two types of taxis in Jeddah, the licensed yellow ones with a TAXI sign on them. They are cheaper though a little rougher with no air conditioning. They cost around $3-6 for a 10 minute ride. The other is white Limosine Taxi, which charges $1-3 more but are of a better quality. Its recommended to negotiate with the taxi for a fixed price before booking one as there can be instances of taxi being “lost” resulting in extra payment.
Car for hire
Shary Rent A Car Phone: 645 0770 Price: from SR70 per day for a 2WD, including full insurance with 150km daily included (SR0.30 per extra km thereafter).
From the Airport
Jeddah serves as the entry point for airlines all across the world. King Abdulaziz International Airport is the largest airport of Saudi Arabia and the North terminal is dedicated to all international flights while the South terminal caters to the domestic Saudi airline and all Saudi Airways flights. The pilgrims heading towards mecca enter through the other two special terminals. Taxi from the airport to the city should cost SR 50 so do make sure you fix this price before taking one.
Driving Tips
If you have an international driving license it is recommended (with translation) but not required by the law. A national license is valid upto 3 months only if complemented with an officially sanctioned Arabic translated one. Women are not permitted to drive and also not allowed to travel with men who are not blood related.
Health and Safety
Health and Safety
To be safe and out of trouble in Jeddah following are the guidelines: • Abayas but not hijabs are required for Western women, however, this is not strictly enforced. Local women normally wear a hijab (headscarf) and abaya to cover her head and entire body. • Alcohol is strictly prohibited in the city and can lead to punishment. It is however at times available in private parties.
