ar- العربية Jeddah, alternatively transliterated as Jedda, Jiddah, or Jidda, is a captivating port city in Makkah Province, Saudi Arabia. Located along the picturesque Red Sea coast in the Hejaz region, Jeddah is not only the commercial center of the country but also a vibrant tourist destination with a rich history and diverse cultural attractions.
Jeddah serves as the gateway for millions of pilgrims arriving in Saudi Arabia, traditionally by sea and more recently by air.
Jeddah is the largest city in Makkah Province and the Hejaz region. It is the second-largest city in Saudi Arabia, after the capital Riyadh, and the ninth-largest in the Middle East.
The city’s strategic location along the Red Sea has established Jeddah Islamic Port as the thirty-sixth largest seaport in the world and the second-busiest in the Middle East, following Dubai’s Port of Jebel Ali.
Jeddah is the principal gateway to Mecca, the holiest city in Islam, located 65 kilometers to the east, and Medina, the second-holiest city, situated 360 kilometers to the north. The city’s significance extends beyond its religious importance, as it is also a hub for economic and scientific development within Saudi Arabia and the Middle East.
As one of Saudi Arabia’s primary resort cities, Jeddah offers a unique blend of modern amenities and traditional charm. Its close proximity to the Red Sea has influenced its food culture, making seafood a staple unlike in other parts of the country. The city’s motto, “Jeddah Ghair,” which translates to “Jeddah is different,” aptly captures its distinctive character.
Visitors to Jeddah can explore a variety of attractions, from the historic Al-Balad district with its traditional architecture and bustling souks to the modern Corniche, a beautiful waterfront promenade lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes. The King Fahd Fountain, the tallest of its kind in the world, is another must-see landmark, offering stunning views of the city and the sea.
Jeddah is also home to several world-class museums, such as the Jeddah Regional Museum of Archaeology and Ethnography and the Abdul Raouf Khalil Museum, which provide fascinating insights into the city’s rich history and culture. For those seeking adventure, the Red Sea’s vibrant coral reefs and marine life offer excellent opportunities for diving and snorkeling.
Whether you’re drawn by its historical significance, cultural diversity, or modern attractions, Jeddah stands out as a unique and enchanting destination that truly lives up to its motto, “Jeddah is different.”