The city of Jeddah and its nighttime skyline, without a doubt, is a beautiful sight. And contrary to general misconceptions, there is quite a lot to do here in terms of leisure. So grab your friends, family or just yourself and try out one of these super fun activities.
Because whether you’re new to the city or have lived here all your life, there’s no harm in trying new things. You never know what new hobby you’ll pick up from these ideas.
Without further ado, here’s our take on the top 20 things to do in Jeddah:
1. Try out the thrilling rides at Al-Shallal Theme Park
With an ice-skating rink, the favourable Amazon ride and arcades and more. This theme park is sure to entertain you especially during winter nights with family and friends.
There’s even a ladies’ night on Wednesdays for the chicas to bask in the glorious park’s entertainment.
2. Visit the Aquarium (nope, not the one at home!)
Right next to Al Nawras, and in the Red Sea- Fakieh Aquarium is a must-visit for families with children. From dolphin and sealion shows, a fabulous lunch prepared and of course some of the most fascinating fish you’ll find.
Whether it’s for groceries at Al Danub, grabbing that Moschino bag you’ve been wanting, having dinner with friends or entertaining your children- this mall is a definite one-stop-shop.
Picture this: you’re locked in a dark room with up to 4-7 other friends and it’s a teamwork of the brains to answer questions based on hints, all to escape the room.
Thrilling, exciting and not your typical game. Novus has been a highly-rated escape room on TripAdvisor and rightfully so!
For 2-3 players, it only costs SR180/player. For 4-8 players, each person pays SR 150.
5. One must try eating something from Al- Baik, at least once!
The restaurant that has stood the test of loyalty amongst its frequent diners. Al Baik has at least 300 branches in Jeddah alone, so that should sort of speak for itself. It’s not the fanciest but it does the job when you’re in that rush of hunger.
I mean, a full meal will only cost ya a whopping SR 14 max. Amazing.
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6. Reminisce or relax while viewing the stunning King Fahad’s fountain!
Built in the ’80s and is Guinness-certified as the tallest fountain in the world. How privileged are we to be able to bask in the glory of this stream of water?
7. Live out your inner Tarzan (or Jane) at the Jungle Land Theme Park
Located in Mersal Village, this jungle-themed park is perfect for anyone looking to get an Amazonian forest-y feel- even though we’re in sunny Jeddah this summer.
Watch a live circus performance, partake in the crazy rides and relive your inner childhood.
8. If you’re into arts or want to feel a little culturally- inspired, hit up this Museum of Arts
Located in Al- Hamra’a, the Museum of Athabiyat and Home Art boasts beautiful paintings and a rare selection of collectibles. Walking through it will give you a feel ancient Arabia with all the antique and monochromatic colours that’ll surround you.
Image Credits (Elmer Rivera/ FB)
9. Snorkel, Scuba Dive or just go on a boat trip
Yep, Jeddah being in the prime of the Red Sea gives us an advantage to bask in the radiant coral reefs of the sea.
And what better time than now?
We suggest contacting Deep Sea Divers to plan out what you want and when you want it, they’re a PADI-authorised dive centre which means you’ll be diving with the pros. Before you know it, you might pick this up as a hobby.
10. Immerse yourself in the traditional feels of Al- Balad
In the heart of Jeddah, you’ll find a rickety area called Al- Balad. Despite its ruins though,the city shows a lot of heart and history- with some buildings made out of coral reefs from the Red Sea. There are souks you can especially visit on Fridays after prayers, strike a conversation with the locals… or just wander around.
11. Get a feel of the Carribean at Silver Sands Beach
Although membership and entrance can be a bit tricky here, (not everyone is permitted to go inside as it’s a Western-style beach), still anyone who’s been can tell you how well-managed and relaxing it is to chill and work on your tan.
Word on the street is, they serve the best pizza too.
Entrance fee SR 150/per head
Located in North Obhor, close to Raddison Blue Hotel.
12. Summertime fun at Obhor!
Watch people jetski outrageously, or you chime in on it too. Obhor has a multitude of fun family/friends activities like visiting the corniche, visit restaurants in Palestine road, long walks by the beach and more.
13. Quad biking in the desert for the adrenaline junkie in you
This can only set you back SR20-60/per hour depending on the place you go.
14. Endless shisha lounges
From Ariba, Nosh, Blueberry to Break Time Cafe and La Terrase, your options for hookah lounges are pretty much unlimited.
Word on the street is there’s private party halls strictly for women only, where you can dance and have a good time with friends. A definite must-try, even for foreigners!
This interesting lake turns pink in the summer and is often rarely visited. All the more reason to check it out.
20. If you’ve done absolutely everything there is to do in Jeddah, head on over to Taif!
We know it’s not in Jeddah but hey, road trip! This 3-hour drive would be nothing compared to the things you’ll see nowhere else in KSA. You can check out the wild baboons (yes, you heard us), the high mountains and slightly cooler weather.
Breathtaking…
Written By
Shereen Ahmed
A heavily caffeinated 24-year old writer and blogger. Shereen enjoys traveling, attempting yoga poses and getting bullied by her Persian cat.
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