What to do in Jeddah

Eid Al Fitr is one of the most anticipated holidays marking the end of Ramadan, and naturally, people in both public and private sectors are looking forward to a much-needed break. Saudi Arabia has confirmed the dates for the 2026 Eid Al Fitr holiday, and here’s what you can expect: Government and private sector employees will enjoy a four-day holiday starting Wednesday, March 18, which corresponds to the 29th of Ramadan The holiday will last until Sunday, March 22, when regular work hours will resume These dates are subject to confirmation after the sighting of the Ramadan crescent, so there...

Jeddah is about to get a serious upgrade. Two well-known names in the hospitality world, Atlantis and One&Only, are opening their ultra-resorts on the Red Sea coastline. Located just 30 minutes from Jeddah International Airport (JED), these resorts will not only put the city on the map but also offer new options for travelers seeking high-end, memorable stays. Let’s take a closer look at what each one brings to the table. Atlantis Jeddah If you’ve ever visited Atlantis in Dubai or the Maldives, you already know the kind of experience to expect. Atlantis Jeddah is bringing that same grand scale...

If you're looking to experience the true heart of Jeddah, Al Balad Winter Season is the place to be. It offers you a full-on dive into the past and present of the city's iconic neighborhood, all wrapped up in a winter experience you won't forget. If you’re into local art and craftsmanship, you’ll love the interactive experiences where you can watch artisans create beautiful traditional pieces. Tariq Abdulhakim Museum offers a unique look into Saudi Arabia’s musical history. Zawya 97 and Craftsmen’s Alley are perfect spots to see history and culture come together in a creative explosion. Shopping here is...

Jeddah is set to welcome Trump Plaza, a USD 1 billion luxury development that promises to redefine the city’s downtown vibe. Sitting at the heart of Dar Al Arkan’s massive ‘Manhattan’ project, this new hub brings premium living, work, and leisure spaces together in one spot. The development is on a record-breaking land plot — the most expensive ever sold in the city. This will be Dar Global’s second project with The Trump Organization, following the launch of Trump Tower Jeddah in 2024. View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Trump Organization (@trump) The goal is to...

Saudi Arabia is setting new standards for regional travel with AROYA Cruises, the first-ever Arabian cruise line. Starting this September, AROYA will be returning to the Red Sea with an updated itinerary. The cruise will offer a blend of new shore excursions and enhanced onboard amenities, giving travelers a perfect mix of exploration and relaxation. Jeddah will remain the homeport for AROYA, placing guests right at the heart of the Red Sea. The journey includes a stop at the private island of Jabal Al Sabaya for some beach time, followed by stops in Egypt at Safaga and Sharm El Sheikh....

Big news for travellers and pilgrims: Sofitel is going grand in Mecca. The brand is set to open its most ambitious project yet, Sofitel Jabal Omar Makkah, in 2026. The hotel will be just a short walk from Masjid Al Haram (the Great Mosque of Mecca), offering guests luxury and convenience right at the city’s heart. The property will include two towers with 1,141 rooms and suites, many facing the Great Mosque. The interiors will blend Parisian elegance with Saudi craftsmanship, creating a peaceful space that feels both sophisticated and rooted in its surroundings. It will be the biggest Sofitel...

Mountains have always been a refuge for those looking to escape the noise of daily life, and ENVI Al Shafa promises the perfect environment for that retreat. Situated 2,000 meters above sea level, this new resort in Saudi Arabia offers privacy, serenity, and an immersive connection with nature. Created for those who seek peace and isolation, ENVI Al Shafa features 35 private villas. The interiors reflect the surrounding natural beauty: earthy materials, raw wood details, and subtle touches of greenery create a grounded atmosphere. The resort encourages slow living. You’ll find an open-air restaurant for relaxed meals, a cozy lounge,...

As the final days of Ramadan approach, many pilgrims are preparing for Umrah at the Great Mosque in Mecca. However, with a large number of worshippers expected, the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has urged pilgrims to be mindful of peak hours to ensure a more comfortable experience. If you're planning your trip during this time, here are the best (and the busiest) hours to visit. Recent data shows that the busiest times at the Great Mosque are: 4 PM to 10 PM 5 AM to 8 AM For those looking for a quieter experience, moderate crowds are usually...

There’s a new reason to look toward Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast: Rixos Murjana. Opening soon in King Abdullah Economic City, this all-inclusive resort blends modern comfort with a coastal rhythm that makes you want to slow down and stay a little longer. Guests can choose from 488 rooms and suites or check into one of the overwater villas at Club Privé, where your terrace opens straight to the sea. A private 600-metre beach anchors the resort. For guests who like to keep moving, Exclusive Sports Club and daily fitness classes bring plenty of options. Evenings are about music, live...

Jeddah’s heritage-filled neighbourhood of Al-Balad is once again at the centre of the Kingdom’s creative spotlight as Balad Al-Fann returns for its second edition. Running every weekend until 13 June, this cultural festival brings together over 90 events, offering visitors a thoughtful blend of tradition and contemporary creativity in one of Saudi Arabia’s most historic districts. Organised by Zawiya 97 in partnership with the Ministry of Culture, Balad Al-Fann transforms the UNESCO-listed area into an interactive art space, where cultural storytelling meets hands-on learning and artistic exploration.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Zawiya...