GETTING THERE
SEE
While modern buildings abound, the heart of the city remains the charming neighborhood of Al Balad, with the buildings made of coral reefs from the Red Sea. Greater efforts have been made in recent years to preserve and renovate the labyrinthine neighborhood, and it is now an UNESCO World Heritage site. One of the many highlights is the Al-Shafi’ i Mosque, which dates back to the 13th century.
Jeddah’ s reputation as an arts hub for the country helped create the outdoor Jeddah Sculpture Museum, with more than 20 sculptures arranged in a green park just next to the water. The collection is impressive, with works by A-list sculptors from around the world, including Joan Miró, Henry Moore, and Alexander Calder.
Jeddah is also home to the tallest fountain in the world, King Fahd Fountain. It sprays water up to 1,024 feet high( taller than the Eiffel Tower) at more than 200 miles per hour, amounting to 16 tons of water in the air at any one time. The show starts at dusk and runs during the night, illuminated by 500 high-intensity spotlights.
SHOP
It wouldn’ t be Saudi Arabia without at least one massive, gleaming shopping mall, and Jeddah follows suit with the Red Sea Mall. Along with the dozens of international and local luxury brands and restaurants, it also hosts a popular musically choreographed indoor fountain.
Wander the Al Balad Souq for traditional Middle Eastern products and cuisine, including jewelry, Islamic art, and spices. The Fish Market is a particular highlight, especially at 9 a. m., when the day’ s catch arrives. More than 50 species of sea creatures are represented, ranging from hammerhead sharks to grouper, parrotfish, and squid.
Al Rahma Mosque in Jeddah
Credit: iStock / Almuhammady
Old City in Jeddah
Credit: iStock / HansMusa
PLAY
The beach and sea infuse much of the entertainment and activities in Jeddah. A favorite is the private Silver Sands Beach, which glistens with fine white sand and perfectly turquoise water. Predominantly frequented by Westerners, bikinis are welcome. Included in the admission fee are padded reclining lawn chairs, a table, and umbrella. Finding it can be a bit tricky so be sure to get careful directions or help from the hotel.
The coral reefs off the coast provide ample opportunities for scuba diving, snorkeling, and more. Outfitters like Desert Sea Divers lead trips to prime spots, offer training, and provide equipment, drinks, and lunch. Or simply rent what you need and head to the beach.
For speed and excitement, get a pass to the 15-acre Al Shallal Theme Park and spend the day rolling and tumbling on roller coasters, shooting high in the air at 60 miles an hour on the Sling Shot, or swinging round in the flying carousel. You can top it off by cooling down in the on-site ice skating rink.
GETTING THERE
Saudi Arabian Airlines offers nonstop service from Dulles International Airport( IAD) to King Khaled International Airport( RUH).
AUTUMN 2018
41 FLYWASHINGTON. COM