Joanna James
Here's a list of things to do when in Jeddah, the beautiful entertainment and commercial capital of Saudi Arabia that lies along the coast of the Red Sea. Shopping, sightseeing and more awaits!
Nicknamed as the 'Bride of the Red Sea' Jeddah offers plenty of thrilling activities that can be enjoyed on the shores of the Red Sea. To experience the best of these, visit the Corniche that runs for about 60 kilometres along the waterfront. There are some good beaches on the North and South of the Corniche. You have to try out snorkelling and diving here as these beaches are home to gorgeous coral reefs and marine life.
Take a step back in time and discover the past glory of Jeddah at Bald. This is the site where the city was founded by fishermen over 2500 years ago. For about 1000 years, there is said to be many pilgrims who visited Jeddah on the way to the Holy City of Mekkah. You will see ancient houses that date back to this period. These are built from palm wood lattices and coral stones.
Do make it a point to visit the spectacular King Fahad Fountain when in Jeddah. This beautiful water spring is said to be the world's largest. The best time to visit it would be during sunset when the sun's golden rays reflect on the shooting water and create a wonderful spectacle.
There is a wide variety of man-made and natural attractions that located not far from the city centre and hotels and Jeddah apartments the likes of the Ascott Sari Jeddah. Some of the highlights include the Ottoman-era forts and the mountain town of Taif. If you're into adventure, a visit to the desert will be most satisfying.
Located along the North Corniche, the Float Mosque in Jeddah is situated in a way projecting into the Red Sea that it gives an illusion of floating in the water. The interior of the mosque is more amazing than the exterior which is made out of white marble. It is this reason why the mosque is also called the "White Mosque". The Floating Mosque is visited by many Makkah pilgrims and during the winter months, the pilgrims are provided with a hot shower to beat the cold.
Forming part of the old city wall that used to surround Balad, the grand Bab Medina Gate is one of the only remaining city gates in the city. This impressive and massive city gate is built of limestone and embellished with corals. Just many other city monuments in Jeddah, it is illuminated at night.
Being Saudi Arabia's commercial capital, Jeddah is a paradise when it comes to shopping. The many shopping malls, souqs, and districts offer something for everyone. Search for local artefacts and souvenirs in the old town of Balad, visit the Heraa, Palestine and Gabel Street areas; or hunt for the latest trends in the exclusive and high fashion boutiques of Tahlia Street which is considered to be the city's Golden Mile. Head over to the large shopping malls such as Roshan mall, Mall of Arabia, or the Red Sea Mall where you will find regional favourite boutiques, as well as international brands, rub shoulders.
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