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