Images clockwise: Musician in Al-Balad; jet skiing on the red sea; Dewan Bait at Hajaz coffee shop
Old Town
Even with all the modern offerings, you simply can’ t go to Jeddah and not dig into its history. Al-Balad( literally translated as“ The Town”) is the historic center of Jeddah; a scenic afternoon stroll through its streets whisks you back to bygone eras. Zawiya 97 is the heart and soul of Old Town— here you’ ll find curated exhibitions and dynamic craft installations in addition to culinary delights at Al Murakab Community Kitchen and authentic wares at Artisans Souq. If your ideal souvenir is a photograph, the elegant façade of Beit Al Matbouli is a can’ t-miss.
There’ s Always Something Happening
Never mind the big-time marquee events— the F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, the Red Sea Film Festival, the Food Culture Festival, the Islamic Arts Biennale 2025 or Jazz in Jeddah— the telltale sign of a modern city is never being at a loss for something to see or do. An evening stroll along the Jeddah Corniche is the simplest means of soaking in the city’ s vibes, but for those willing to search out the evening’ s entertainment, there’ s a live performance or a dominoes game just waiting to be found. •
SUMMER 2025 · 101