Saudi Arabia · Bride of the Red Sea
جدة
Saudi Arabia
~4,500,000
Red Sea Coast
UTC+3 (AST)
Jeddah is Saudi Arabia's second-largest city and its commercial capital, a vibrant Red Sea port with approximately 4.5 million residents. Known as the "Bride of the Red Sea" and "Gateway to Mecca," Jeddah has welcomed pilgrims and traders for 2,500 years. The city combines historic significance, commercial importance, and a cosmopolitan atmosphere that makes it Saudi Arabia's most liberal and diverse city.
Unlike the conservative interior, Jeddah has historically been more open to the world through its maritime connections. The UNESCO-listed Historic Jeddah (Al-Balad) preserves coral stone tower houses and traditional architecture from the pre-oil era. Modern Jeddah features dramatic skyscrapers, the famous King Fahd Fountain, and a long corniche along the Red Sea.
Jeddah serves as the arrival point for millions of Hajj and Umrah pilgrims heading to nearby Mecca. The city also functions as Saudi Arabia's commercial hub, with the kingdom's busiest seaport and a major international airport. Vision 2030 projects are transforming Jeddah with entertainment, tourism, and development initiatives.
The UNESCO World Heritage old town features coral stone buildings, wooden mashrabiya screens, and centuries of history. The traditional souks attract visitors.
The world's tallest fountain shoots water 312 meters into the air. The spectacular display is best viewed at night when illuminated.
The 30-kilometer waterfront promenade offers Red Sea views, sculptures, and recreation. Evening brings families and joggers to the scenic stretch.
World-class diving sites feature coral reefs and marine life. Jeddah serves as base for Red Sea diving expeditions.
Over 400 sculptures by international artists line the streets. The collection includes works by Henry Moore, Joan Miró, and others.
The museum showcases Islamic, pre-Islamic, and Saudi heritage. Art collections and architectural displays reveal regional history.
Jeddah's economy diversifies beyond oil—commerce, shipping, finance, and tourism provide employment. The King Abdulaziz Port is Saudi Arabia's largest. Real estate development, retail, and services employ many workers. Religious tourism associated with Hajj generates significant economic activity. Vision 2030 projects including entertainment and cultural development aim to transform Jeddah into a global destination.
Jeddah's culture is notably more cosmopolitan than interior Saudi Arabia. Maritime connections brought diversity through centuries of trade and pilgrimage. Hejazi traditions differ from Najdi conservatism. Music, art, and cultural events flourish increasingly under Vision 2030's reforms. The large expatriate population adds international flavors. While Islamic values remain central, Jeddah has traditionally been more relaxed than Riyadh. Recent entertainment reforms have brought concerts, cinemas, and events previously forbidden.
Jeddah has served as a Red Sea port for at least 2,500 years. The name possibly derives from "grandmother"—tradition claims Eve's tomb is located here. Islamic history began when Caliph Uthman designated Jeddah as the seaport for Mecca in 647 CE. The city prospered from pilgrimage traffic and Indian Ocean trade. Various powers—Mamluks, Ottomans, Hashemites—controlled the valuable port.
Saudi conquest in 1925 incorporated Jeddah into the emerging kingdom. King Abdulaziz developed the city as Saudi Arabia's diplomatic and commercial center before Riyadh's rise. Oil wealth transformed Jeddah from a modest port into a modern city. Historic Al-Balad was recognized as UNESCO World Heritage in 2014. Today's Jeddah balances heritage preservation with ambitious development projects under Vision 2030.
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