Jeddah

One of the most popular downtime activities in Jeddah is smoking shisha at one of the many hotels or cafes along the corniche. A limited number of pilgrims are starting to sandwich a holiday in Jeddah into their itinerary. This is not surprising as many pilgrim s, especially from the West, have for years combined a holiday in one of the Gulf countries with their spiritually journey to Makkah and Medina. A Jeddah holiday before or after the pilgrimage can be more cost effective than travelling to multiple countries and it is definitely less strenuous. For observant Muslims Jeddah offers resorts that specifically cater to their needs. The Movenpick al Nawras, which is an all villa resort, features one and two bedroom units each with its own private pool. The swimming pools uniquely overlook the Red Sea whilst being cleverly configured to ensure total privacy for female swimmers who observe the hijab. It is also possible to rent a private villa on the beach in areas like Obhur.

The fact that women in Saudi Arabia need to cover up means that families who want to enjoy the warm waters of the Red Sea have to be creative. Families can rent a boat and head out just far enough to be invisible from the shore but close enough to be safe. Other water based activities available in Jeddah include Scuba Diving and Deep Sea diving, fishing and of course all the traditional fun water activities, like jet skiing, kiting and wind-surfing. Being a coastal city means that the water is an important part of Jeddah life and The Floating Mosque, located on the North Corniche embraces this important aspect of Jeddah life. Some of the 5* hotels even have access to private beaches for their guests where normal beachwear for men and women is acceptable without restriction.

Muslim foodies will not be disappointed with the culinary offering during their holiday in Jeddah. Whilst the gulf countries may tempt the new breed of Haloodies seeking more than just the cuisines offered by traditional Muslim cultures, none of these destinations can claim to be entirely free of pork and alcohol. Jeddah offers cuisines from around the world at various 5* hotels as well as premier eateries across the city. Jeddah features some western branded food outlets that have yet to make it to the rest of the Gulf countries and traditional cuisine from across Asia and the Middle East is widely available. An Arab destination would be incomplete without the pre-requisite malls, and Jeddah does not disappoint. The Mall of Arabia is supposedly the largest mall in the Kingdom and has a built up area of 261,000 sq meters which is approximately the same size as the Mall of the Emirates in Dubai. Unlike Dubai however, Jeddah also offers traditional souks which provide an experience reminiscent to the bazaars of Egypt and Syria. 

Winters, starting from October till March is the best time to go to Jeddah . The average temperatures during this season range between 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. 

Avoid the Haj Season

Jeddah is also the gateway to Mecca which millions of Muslims from all over the world make a Hajj Pilgrimage to every year. This is the peak season and it is best to avoid visiting Jeddah during this time as the city is over populated with the pilgrimage traffic. 

Summer time

Summer is very hot and humid with the average temperature ranging between a maximum of 39 degrees dropping to an average minimum of 26 degrees. July is the hottest month. During the summer vacations Jeddah holds a festival; Jeddah Ghir (meaning Jeddah is different) which is the most important festival in the whole of Saudi Arabia. The festival consists of about 250 events which include competitions, market fairs, artistic and cultural games and exhibitions of photography and fine arts.  The world’s highest fountain; King Fahd’s Fountain also known as Jeddah fountain is one of the main attractions and is best seen at night or at dawn as the flood lights give the fountain the most fascinating and exotic colors. Other important sites which must be visited in Jeddah are the Mecca Gate, the Floating Mosque, and other various historical sites.