Jeddah Adventure: 15 Must-Try Activities for an Unforgettable Experience

Jeddah, the pearl of the Red Sea, and the second-largest city in the Kingdom is true to its motto “Jeddah is different”. Jeddah is jam-packed with so many activities, adventures, and sightseeing that will keep your visit exciting, fun, and adventurous. A thrilling ride indeed! With historic sights, water activities, shopping, themed parks, and many more. All will leave you spoilt for choice.

Let’s create an exceptionally amazing itinerary full of fun activities to do in Jeddah!

If you have to pick one destination for water activities with your family, you should definitely pick Jeddah. The things to do in Jeddah concerning water sports are limitless. You will find suitable activities for every family member with huge varieties.

1. Dive Deep
There is a whole other world underwater in Jeddah. Astonishing diving sites with untouched coral reefs. Most of the diving sites are located in Jeddah along with offices offering diving gear rentals and courses for beginners. Sharm Obhur shore waters are packed with Nemo look-alike clownfish, lionfish, eels, and bull sharks.You will also find the skeletons of several shipwrecks, now overgrown with colorful coral and home to many species of fish.

2. Sail on a boat
With its turquoise blue waters and never-ending horizon, it’s impossible to ignore the call of the gorgeous Red Sea. Go on a boat trip in which you can go fishing, snorkel, swim, enjoy the amazing weather, and have a delicious bite on deck.

3. Swim with the dolphins
You have to go to the first marine exhibition of its kind in Saudi Arabia “Fakieh Aquarium”. The aquarium is the house of over 200 species. 85% of these species are native to Jeddah’s astonishing coral reefs. So you won’t need scuba gear to discover this amazing underwater world, you will only need a ticket to this vast aquarium with its tunnels and tanks and you are good to go.

Jeddah is one of the oldest seaports in the Gulf and the gateway to Makkah. Its welcoming attitude to all people from all over the world with its rich history and acceptance made it a melting pot for all cultures. That’s why the activities to do in Jeddah are different, extraordinary, and diversified.

1. Go hiking
Among the most exciting activities to do in Jeddah is hiking, where you can camp under the stars, have a barbeque dinner, enjoy the breathtaking view from above, and check out the unique rock formations of each mountain. There are several mountains to consider but you don’t want to miss the Moon Mountain.

2. Get your kids going
The activities to do in Jeddah for kids are numerous. They range from educational fun to developing real-life skills. Your child’s creativity will be explored on so many levels. From painting to child-friendly sports, they will go on a day of thrilling rides, video games, bowling, rock climbing, and even ice skating.

They can also enjoy live lion shows, circus performances, and a variety of amusement parks. Let your kids get drenched and express themselves.

3. Embrace the history
The melting pot has a long, deep history with so many transformations and stories to tell. For a wild look into Jeddah’s long and cosmopolitan past, take a journey to the precious selection of museums found throughout the city.

There you will get to know, the history of Islam, the rich past of Jeddah, and the process of Saudi Arabia’s formation as a country. You will also get to experience the art, the food, and the ambiance of modern Jeddah. Among the historic activities to do in Jeddah is visiting Al Balad. You will be amazed at its remarkable architecture and delectable street food, which make this magical place irresistible.

4. Go for a desert safari
Safari is one of the best activities to do in Jeddah. Get lost in the bashing sand dunes and the beautiful scenery. The open space and quietness will elevate your mood. There are many types of safari, like Jeep tours, camel tours, sand surfing, and more.

Looking for more information on Jeddah? Here’s our comprehensive travel guide for all the insider details and tips.

2. Indulge in a million delicacies

The local cuisine’s unique flair and the hospitality of the people are distinctive features of this port city. Yet, it’s the city’s gastronomical diversity that truly captivates every food lover’s heart. One can find anything their palate craves, from traditional Arabic dishes to modern multinational creations endorsed with their chefs’ signatures.

Restaurants, ranging from those that infuse worldwide flavors with an Arabian twist to casual dining spots, cater to every dietary whim and fancy. Whether it’s a humble street stall serving lip-smacking shawarma or restaurants offering fine-dining fusion, each culinary encounter is aimed to meet your satisfaction. The diverse and enticing food scene ensures every meal ends with a heartwarming smile and a satisfied customer.

3. Explore the city

Go for a tour to discover the city’s gems. Here are some sightseeing activities to do in Jeddah.
Go to King Fahd’s Fountain is a much-loved Jeddah landmark, The fountain is better at night. Take a picture with Jeddah Flagpole at Saudi Flag Roundabout. Also, you can approach the Seaport to view Jeddah Lighthouse.

2. Jeddah’s Corniche
Go for a pleasant walk for the whole family. You can enjoy it in the morning or evening with various activities, open spaces, and events.

3. Naseef House
It is one of Jeddah’s well-restored old coral houses. It belonged to one of the most powerful families who were famed for trading in Jeddah. Later the house became a royal residence for King Abdul Aziz. It also has one of the oldest, biggest trees in the city.

4. Beit Al Ballad
Among the activities to do in Jeddah is visiting a museum that was built in the 20th century as the British legation’s headquarters in Jeddah. Beit Al Ballad now hosts some of the most artistic pieces and photographs.

5. Al Shallal Theme Park
One of the most amazing activities to do in Jeddah is going on a fun-filled adventure to explore Al Shallal Theme Park which is more of a resort than a park.

Jeddah Traveling Tips

• Plan your trip: Avoid traveling during the hotter months. The best time to visit Jeddah is between October and May.
• Dress modestly: Remember to respect local customs and dress modestly.
• Learn basic Arabic phrases: Learn a few basic Arabic words to help you navigate and converse with locals.
• Familiarize yourself with local customs and laws: Saudi Arabia’s customs and laws are rooted in Islam. Smoking and consuming alcohol, for example, are restricted.
• Use local transport: Public transportation is reliable and affordable in Jeddah. Consider using it for a more authentic travel experience.
• Be respectful during prayer times: Five times per day, businesses close for prayer. Respect this timeliness.
• Embrace local cuisine: Don’t miss out on trying traditional Saudi dishes.

Jeddah invites you to immerse yourself in an unforgettable experience of cultural richness, warm hospitality, and diverse activities. Its venues will enchant your senses, and its ancient traditions and vibrant modern life co-existing in harmony will leave you awe-inspired.