Old Jeddah, Al Balad

Had such a great time walking around here at night! The streets and buildings are just beautiful, and even though most stores close by 11pm, there are still a few open later. We walked around until about 1:30am and always felt super safe, there is also security around the streets. The streets are well lit and super clean, adding to the overall great experience. The whole area has a surreal feel to it , definitely worth checking out. Highly recommend it!

I recently had the chance to visit Old Jeddah, or Al-Balad, and it was an unforgettable experience. During the day, the narrow streets are bustling with life, shopkeepers warmly greet you, the aroma of spices fills the air, and the intricate details of the coral stone buildings and wooden balconies shine in the sunlight. Walking through the vibrant souks, I felt like I was transported back in time. At night, Al-Balad takes on a completely different charm. The streets are beautifully lit, and the historic buildings seem to glow, creating an almost magical atmosphere. Families and groups of friends gather, adding a sense of community to the already lively ambiance. Exploring Old Jeddah both day and night showed me two sides of its beauty, and I left with a deep appreciation for its history and soul. It’s truly a place you have to see to believe!

A must see and the main attraction of Jeddah! There is some heavy restoration going on under the Vision 2030 agenda. This area is already a gem and it will become even better in a few years. Just wonder through the narrow streets and see these beautiful historical houses by day or night!

Nice place to visit and understand the old times ways. You can walk through and visit the souvenir stores and coffees. We didn’t find any restaurants to have dinner, so we had to take an uber to another region.

This the historic city the old part of Jeddah. Stunning architecture I have never seen before. Lots of local coffee shops and every thug else including restaurants. Anitjer first was that at regular intervals in all the streets there were cat feeding stations for the stray cats. Had wonderful time in this area.

“Old Jeddah, or Al-Balad, is a captivating glimpse into the rich history and culture of Saudi Arabia. Wandering through its narrow alleys, you’ll encounter beautifully preserved coral-stone buildings with intricate wooden lattice balconies, known as Roshan, reflecting the city’s unique architectural heritage. The vibrant souks are a sensory delight, offering everything from traditional spices and perfumes to local handicrafts. The UNESCO World Heritage status is well-deserved, as the area truly feels like stepping back in time. While some parts are undergoing restoration, the charm and authenticity remain intact. It’s a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and anyone wanting to experience the soul of Jeddah.”

The visit to Old Balad in Jeddah was pleasant, though nothing particularly stood out. While the historic charm is undeniable, I believe more can be done to enhance the experience. The developments seem basic, and I wish the focus would shift more towards making the area people-centric. Adding more tourism attractions, such as interactive exhibits, cultural performances, and guided tours, would greatly improve the appeal for visitors. This place has immense potential, but it needs further attention and thoughtful planning to truly attract and engage tourists.

Old Jeddah or Al Balad is historic part of the city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was a major trade port and also the gateway for Muslim pilgrims to Makkah who arrived by sea. Now it is in the process of being restored so be careful while you walk around. There are cafes, restaurants and every house is a museum for itself. We spend all day strolling through the narrow streets and beautiful markets there. Don’t miss this place if you visit Jeddah 🌸🌸🌸🌸