Jeddah holidays

How to reach Jeddah

• Flight time: Direct flights to Jeddah from the UK take between 6 hours and 6 hours 30 minutes, and are available from London and Manchester. On alternative routes, or from other airports, you will usually connect via a European or Middle Eastern hub, which extends the travel time by a few hours.

• Transfer time: Once you arrive at King Abdulaziz International Airport, it’s a 30 to 45-minute drive into Jeddah, depending on traffic. Although buses and trains do serve the airport, taxis are the most commonly used transport for the city centre, and you’ll also find ride-hailing services like Uber and the local Careem readily available.

• Price: The cost of a taxi ride into Jeddah city centre ranges from SR50–SR100 (£10–£20), depending on the destination and traffic conditions, and it’s advised to agree on a fare before setting off. Ride-hailing services are slightly cheaper.

Best time to visit Jeddah

Jeddah has a warm climate all year round, with very little rain and plenty of sun, although it can get seriously hot in the summer. The best time to visit depends on how much you like the heat and the kind of activities you are looking to do.

• December to February is Jeddah’s coolest season, with temperatures hovering between 20°C and 30°C. These months are perfect for exploring the city’s historic sites and markets.

• March to May sees the weather warm up slightly, with temperatures climbing to around 25°C to 35°C. This shoulder season is great for those who prefer fewer crowds but still want to enjoy pleasant weather at the beach.

• June to September is sweltering in Jeddah, with daily highs regularly reaching 40°C and above. If you’re planning holidays to Jeddah during this time, be prepared for intense heat, and you’ll probably be spending your days indoors in air conditioning or around water.

• October to November marks the transition back to cooler weather, with temperatures dropping to a more manageable 30°C. It’s a lovely time to visit, especially if you want to enjoy outdoor activities without the intense summer heat.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: The official language is Arabic, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels and restaurants. Learning a few Arabic phrases is appreciated, especially when visiting local markets or more traditional areas.

• Local habits and customs: Saudi Arabia is a conservative country, and respecting local customs is crucial. Dress modestly, especially women, who are required to wear an abaya in public. Public displays of affection are frowned upon, and alcohol is strictly prohibited. Prayer times are observed throughout the day and many businesses close during these times.

• Health and safety: Jeddah is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it’s always good practice to stay alert in busy areas. Healthcare facilities are excellent and many doctors speak English. Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance, especially if you plan to engage in any watersports or adventure activities.

• Currency: The currency in Saudi Arabia is the riyal (SR). ATMs are widely available in the city. Most shops, restaurants and hotels accept major credit and debit cards, but it’s handy to have some cash for smaller establishments and markets.

• Getting around: Jeddah’s public transport network is still developing, but taxis or ride-hailing services like Uber and Careem are the easiest ways to get around. Prices are reasonable, with a typical fare costing SAR 15 (£3) for short trips. There are also buses, but they’re not widely used by tourists.

• Electricity and plug types: Saudi Arabia’s electricity supply is 230V and uses UK-style three-pin plugs, so UK visitors won’t need an adaptor.

• Time zone: Jeddah is on Arabian Standard Time (AST), which is 3 hours ahead of GMT.

• Required travel documentation: UK travellers need a visa to enter Saudi Arabia, which can be applied for either online before your trip – eVisa (90 days, SR395, £80) or Visa Waiver (180 days, SR150, £30) – or when you arrive at the airport (SR300, £60). You’ll need a passport with at least six months of validity from your entry date.

Local dishes in Jeddah

Jeddah offers a wide range of top-quality international food, and the opportunity to explore Saudi’s own diverse and delicious cuisine. From hearty meat dishes to sweet treats and refreshing local drinks, here’s what you should keep an eye out for when dining in Jeddah.

Some typical dishes

• Kabsa: A classic Saudi rice dish similar to Biryani. It’s made with chicken, lamb or camel, and flavoured with a mix of cinnamon, cloves, black lime and other warming spices.

• Jareesh: This wheat-based dish is similar to porridge, slow-cooked until the grains are soft. It’s often served as a side dish or as a comforting main course, flavoured with spices and butter.

Meat dishes

• Mandi: Another rice dish, but with a unique flavour thanks to the meat – typically lamb or chicken – being slow-cooked in an underground oven.

• Shwarma: One of the most popular foods to eat on the go, Shwarma consists of meat (usually chicken or lamb) that’s slow-cooked on a spit, thinly sliced, then served in flatbread with salad, garlic sauce and pickles.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Sayadiyah: A popular coastal dish in Jeddah, made with fish cooked in spiced rice seasoned with caramelised onions and fragrant spices, often using local varieties like hammour or kingfish.

• Samak Mashwi: Grilled fish seasoned with a blend of traditional spices, served with rice or bread, and sometimes garnished with lemon or tahini sauce.

Sweets and desserts

• Luqaimat: Small doughnuts drizzled with date syrup or honey, often served during Ramadan.

• Kunafa: Shredded pastry filled with cheese or cream and nuts, soaked in sweet syrup.

Local drinks

• Arabic Coffee (Qahwa): An essential part of local hospitality, Saudi coffee is flavoured with spices such as cardamom and served with dates, offering a unique and aromatic experience.

• Jallab: A refreshing Middle Eastern drink made from grape molasses and rose water, served over ice and topped with pine nuts. It’s a popular choice in the warmer months.

Best things to do in Jeddah

As well as being the traditional gateway to Mecca, Jeddah is Saudi Arabia’s second-largest city, its most cosmopolitan, and an increasingly popular resort on the Red Sea coast. Blending bustling, ancient souks with gleaming skyscrapers, Jeddah holidays offer visitors an array of attractions, from the historic to the modern.

The best districts

• Al Balad: The city’s old town is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its historic buildings, narrow, winding alleyways and traditional markets. You can see beautifully preserved coral stone houses, such as Naseef House, and it’s a fascinating place to wander in the early evening when the souks come alive.

• Al Shati District: One of Jeddah’s upscale areas, this is where you’ll find luxury hotels, the corniche, parks, Al Rahma Mosque, the city’s most exclusive shopping centres and plenty of dining options overlooking the Red Sea.

Historic monuments

• Naseef House: This 19th-century mansion in Al Balad is one of Jeddah’s most important historic landmarks. Once a royal residence, it has now been restored and serves as a museum, offering a glimpse into the history of the city. Climb up to the rooftop for panoramic views over the old town.

• Jeddah Walls: While much of the original city walls have been lost over time, some sections remain to tell the story they played defending Jeddah, and they’re worth seeking out.

Activities for families in Jeddah

Jeddah is packed with fun activities that are perfect for family holidays, from amusement parks to a day at the beach.

• Amusement parks: Jeddah’s largest is Al Shallal Theme Park, with a mix of thrilling rides for older kids and green spaces to play for younger children. Atallah Happy Land Park is another option, offering everything from roller-coasters and bumper cars to an indoor skating rink and arcade games.

• TeamLab Borderless: Originally from Tokyo, Japan, TeamLab has now opened one of their extraordinarily imaginative art installations in Jeddah. It’s a spectacular place to walk around, to get right inside the fully immersive art.

• Beaches: Besides plenty of stretches of public beach, there are also private beach clubs along the coast, like Silver Sands Beach, offering clean, safe spots for family swimming and watersports.

Free things to do in Jeddah

If you’re looking for ways to explore Jeddah without breaking the bank, there’s a wealth of free activities and events available. From enjoying the natural beauty of the Red Sea coast to soaking up the local culture, here are some of the best free things to do in Jeddah.

• Jeddah Corniche: The iconic waterfront stretches for over 30km along the Red Sea, offering stunning views, particularly at sunset. It’s a favourite spot for locals and tourists alike, with walking paths, sculptures and beach areas dotted along the way. Don’t miss the floating Al Rahma Mosque sitting serenely on the water, adding to the picturesque skyline.

• Free events: Jeddah’s bustling cultural scene includes many free outdoor events and festivals. Check out the Jeddah Season festival for free performances, open-air markets and family-friendly entertainment. Saudi National Day always packs in lots of shows, entertainment and fireworks.

Wellness in Jeddah

• Spas and wellness centres: Jeddah’s high-end hotels often feature luxurious spas that offer everything from deep tissue massages and body scrubs to hammam-style facilities. The Shangri-La and the Ritz-Carlton are both known for their top-notch wellness spas.

Nature and outdoor activities

• Diving and snorkelling: Jeddah is a top spot for exploring the Red Sea’s vibrant coral reefs and marine life. Dive centres along the coast offer beginner courses to advanced dive trips, with plenty of opportunities to see colourful fish, sea turtles and even sharks.

• Desert tours: Just outside the city, the vast Arabian desert offers a stark contrast to Jeddah’s coastal vibe. Day trips allow you to experience dune driving, camel riding and even overnight camping under the stars.