Souks and Markets

Jeddah is famous for its shopping excursions most typically found in the Balad district, where the city does boast some of the most exquisite shopping centres in the world. Retail paradises dripping in gold, encased in stone, cool caves of designer pleasure for the shoppaholics to indulge themselves. There are also the traditional souk markets, packed with stalls selling precious metals, spices and carpets. These markets are a noisy hubbub of activity and an exciting way to get your retail therapy.

This famous port city is more than just brightly coloured boutiques and designer labels. It has a long history stretching back in time and now visitors can discover the age-old participations Jeddah has made in the region. The Biet Nassif is an old family house from 1870 that has been converted into a museum, which explains the importance of the area and the cultural significance Jeddah has in the Islamic world.

Jeddah’s Beaches

The beaches of Jeddah are also an important feature for visitors and its location on the Red Sea gives tourists access to plenty of water sports and sea related entertainment. The Corniche Jeddah is the most famous of the waterfront areas and includes the King Fahd fountain, the world’s tallest water feature and an open-air art gallery. The Durrat Al-Arus, Bait Albahar and the Crystal Resort are some of Jeddahs other popular beaches.

Other points of interest for the Jeddah tourist are the:

Makkah Gate, this is one of the oldest gates in Saudi Arabia and takes pilgrims from Jeddah to the holy city of Mecca.

Municipality Museum is housed in the city’s only remaining building from the British Empires presence in Saudi Arabia and contains a precious collection of photographs, manuscripts and artefacts recording the country’s history.

Jeddah Museum of Archaeology and Ethnography was formally a palace that was built between 1928 and 1932. It now has a range of artefacts that date back to the Stone Age to the arrival of Islam. There is also a selection of treasures from when the building was used as a Royal residency and exhibitions of cultural importance from the region.

Abdul Raouf Khalil Museum is another exotic location with a marvellously decorated exterior that preserves the heritage and culture of Jeddah from its early roots of the Ottoman Empire to the modern commercial centre it has developed into today.

Due to its position on the pilgrim trail Jeddah attracts many people and even if you are not heading for Mecca or Messina there is still plenty for you to experience in the city itself. Warm all year around with lots to entertain the whole family and a chance to sample genuine Islamic culture, tastes and sounds.

Where to Stay

The Radisson Blu Royal Suite Hotel situated ten minutes from King Abdul Aziz International Airport, provides the ultimate in luxury and comfort whether you are travelling to a religious festival, shopping or on business.

The inside of the building is dripping with elegance, beautiful marble, rich fabrics and tasteful period furniture give the hotel a feeling of Islamic style and sophistication. Staying here is a delight with a varied tasty menu, environmentally controlled air-conditioning and gorgeous modern suites and rooms.

If you would prefer to stay more in the hustle bustle of Jeddah’s business district the Radisson Blu Jeddah Hotel offers he same amenities but in an ideal location for business travellers as well as those who want to stay in a more centrally located hotel.