Location & Transportation
Ships typically dock about 10 km from the city center, so be sure to use the transportation provided by your cruise line to reach Jeddah. Also, note that Saudi Arabia now offers an eVisa for cruise passengers, costing around 130 Euros. Although some cruise companies claim they’ll handle visa formalities, it’s wise to double-check well in advance.
Sightseeing
Jeddah has been a thriving port and trading city for centuries, offering visitors an intriguing blend of old and new. Some highlights include:
- The impressive Corniche – a waterfront stretch lined with hotels, beaches, and resorts.
- A stroll through the Old City (Al-Balad), a UNESCO World Heritage Site where traditional multistory buildings and merchant houses reveal a rich heritage that locals are proud to preserve.
- A visit to the Jeddah Fountain, the tallest fountain in the world.
- Several private beaches such as Durrat Al-Arus and Crystal Resort, known for their well-preserved Red Sea marine life and offshore coral reefs.
Tours & Excursions
Given the local climate, I highly recommend joining one of the organized excursions offered by your cruise line. They often include:
- A convenient bus trip to the Old Town for around 15 Euros return.
- Guided tours that provide deep insights into Jeddah’s history and cultural evolution.
- Note: Mecca is relatively nearby; however, non-Muslim visitors are not permitted to enter.
It‘s a good idea to compare shore excursion costs between what your cruise line offers and options like Viator and GetYourGuide. They often provide lower prices and include customer reviews and ratings to help you choose the best option. They may also offer more more flexible cancellation or rescheduling policies than those available through your cruise line. However, while booking independently might give you more variety and potentially better rates, be mindful of your schedule - cruise line excursions are typically coordinated to match your ship‘s schedule with guaranteed pick-up and drop-off times.
There is also a great resource for finding local guides at Tours by Locals. Tours by Locals connects you with local guides who can help you plan a private personal tour, guide you, and get you back to your ship on time. You can also check out Rome2Rio for local transportation options. It is a great resource for finding how to get from one place to another, including public transportation, taxis, ferries, and more.
Shopping
At the heart of the Old City, you’ll find a bustling market street lined with traditional coral houses. This vibrant area is perfect for picking up local crafts and souvenirs. When exploring:
- Enjoy the lively atmosphere as vendors sell everything from artisanal goods to clothing.
- Shopping malls in the city typically operate:
- Saturday to Tuesday: 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM
- Wednesday & Thursday: 10:00 AM to 2:00 AM
Dining
Jeddah boasts a wide range of dining options that reflect its cosmopolitan character. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional Saudi dishes, fresh seafood, or international cuisine, you’ll find plenty of restaurants and cafés—especially along the Corniche and in the Old City. Be sure to try aromatic Arabic coffee and regional specialties when you dine out.
Culture & Local Events
Jeddah offers a fascinating look at a society that blends modern comforts with deep-rooted traditions. Here are some cultural insights and tips:
Local Events
- The city hosts various cultural festivals, especially during Ramadan and national celebrations.
- Keep an eye out for local art exhibitions and traditional music performances that frequently take place in community centers and public spaces.
Safety & Awareness
- Dress modestly: Both men and women should cover their shoulders and knees when out in public. Women, while no longer required to cover their heads in everyday settings, should do so when visiting places of worship.
- Public displays of affection are best kept to a minimum.
- Alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited.
- It’s important to respect the local practice of pausing business activities for prayer five times a day.
- Homosexuality, extramarital relations, and non-conforming gender presentations are not permitted under local laws.
- Avoid taking photos or recording videos in sensitive areas or without permission.
- For emergencies, dial 999.
Additional cultural notes:
- Arabic is the official language but English is widely understood, especially in tourist areas.
- The local currency is the Saudi Riyal (SAR). While many places accept cards in urban settings, it’s good to have some cash handy for smaller vendors.
- Jeddah’s rhythm is influenced by prayer times, so expect some businesses to close briefly several times a day.