Old Jeddah, Al Balad

A must see and the main attraction of Jeddah! There is some heavy restoration going on under the Vision 2030 agenda. This area is already a gem and it will become even better in a few years. Just wonder through the narrow streets and see these beautiful historical houses by day or night!

Old Jeddah or Al Balad is historic part of the city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was a major trade port and also the gateway for Muslim pilgrims to Makkah who arrived by sea. Now it is in the process of being restored so be careful while you walk around. There are cafes, restaurants and every house is a museum for itself. We spend all day strolling through the narrow streets and beautiful markets there. Don’t miss this place if you visit Jeddah 🌸🌸🌸🌸

The visit to Old Balad in Jeddah was pleasant, though nothing particularly stood out. While the historic charm is undeniable, I believe more can be done to enhance the experience. The developments seem basic, and I wish the focus would shift more towards making the area people-centric. Adding more tourism attractions, such as interactive exhibits, cultural performances, and guided tours, would greatly improve the appeal for visitors. This place has immense potential, but it needs further attention and thoughtful planning to truly attract and engage tourists.

Amazing place to visit and experience. Very nice and helpful people even to tourists like us. The architecture and sights are breathtaking.

Visiting the Jeddah Historical District is like stepping into a living museum. The narrow alleyways, beautiful old houses, and vibrant souks are absolutely mesmerizing. The blend of traditional architecture with the energy of the locals creates a unique atmosphere that you won't find anywhere else. The area's history is palpable, and it's clear that efforts have been made to preserve its authenticity. Whether you're wandering through the old markets or admiring the coral stone buildings, there's a sense of history and culture in every corner. However, one downside is that Google Maps is not up to date with the recent street changes in the area. This made navigating through the district a bit challenging at times, as some streets have been altered or are under construction. I highly recommend getting a physical map or asking the locals for directions. Despite this small issue, it's a must-visit location for anyone interested in Saudi Arabia's rich history and culture!

It is a place with rich history. Beautiful neat and clean place. Lots of choices of food available. However, there is not much guidance available at the place. No boards that tell tourists about the history. Secondly, no directions were available on how to get there. We had to hire a taxi who could drive us as a guide to the right area.

It's always fun walking around and exploring the old historic centre of Jeddah. There is a fair amount of renovation going on, as some of the buildings are quite old (and probably structurally unsafe), but once complete, it will enhance the Al Balad experience even more. The evening/ night time brings a different atmosphere to Al Balad, with the hustle bustle of cafes and shops, to some quiet, peaceful areas. A visit to Jeddah is not complete without visiting Al Balad.

Al Balad Historical Area in Jeddah is a must-visit for anyone interested in the rich history and culture of Saudi Arabia. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a fascinating blend of traditional architecture and vibrant local life. The best time to visit is during the winter months when the weather is pleasantly cool, making it perfect for leisurely strolls through the narrow streets. One of the highlights of visiting Al Balad is witnessing the area come alive during Ramadan. The atmosphere is electric, with stalls offering delicious local food, traditional music, and cultural events that celebrate the spirit of the season. It's an incredible time to immerse yourself in the local culture and experience the warmth of the community. As you explore, you’ll encounter stunning coral houses that date back to the 19th century and beautifully preserved mosques that reflect the region’s architectural heritage. Don't miss the chance to visit the bustling souks, where you can find everything from spices to handmade crafts. Overall, Al Balad is not just a historical site; it’s a living testament to Jeddah’s past and present. Whether you're a history buff or simply looking for a unique cultural experience, Al Balad offers something for everyone. I highly recommend visiting to soak in the history and vibrant atmosphere!

A must see and the main attraction of Jeddah! There is some heavy restoration going on under the Vision 2030 agenda. This area is already a gem and it will become even better in a few years. Just wonder through the narrow streets and see these beautiful historical houses by day or night!

Old Jeddah or Al Balad is historic part of the city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was a major trade port and also the gateway for Muslim pilgrims to Makkah who arrived by sea. Now it is in the process of being restored so be careful while you walk around. There are cafes, restaurants and every house is a museum for itself. We spend all day strolling through the narrow streets and beautiful markets there. Don’t miss this place if you visit Jeddah 🌸🌸🌸🌸

The visit to Old Balad in Jeddah was pleasant, though nothing particularly stood out. While the historic charm is undeniable, I believe more can be done to enhance the experience. The developments seem basic, and I wish the focus would shift more towards making the area people-centric. Adding more tourism attractions, such as interactive exhibits, cultural performances, and guided tours, would greatly improve the appeal for visitors. This place has immense potential, but it needs further attention and thoughtful planning to truly attract and engage tourists.

Amazing place to visit and experience. Very nice and helpful people even to tourists like us. The architecture and sights are breathtaking.

Visiting the Jeddah Historical District is like stepping into a living museum. The narrow alleyways, beautiful old houses, and vibrant souks are absolutely mesmerizing. The blend of traditional architecture with the energy of the locals creates a unique atmosphere that you won't find anywhere else. The area's history is palpable, and it's clear that efforts have been made to preserve its authenticity. Whether you're wandering through the old markets or admiring the coral stone buildings, there's a sense of history and culture in every corner. However, one downside is that Google Maps is not up to date with the recent street changes in the area. This made navigating through the district a bit challenging at times, as some streets have been altered or are under construction. I highly recommend getting a physical map or asking the locals for directions. Despite this small issue, it's a must-visit location for anyone interested in Saudi Arabia's rich history and culture!

It is a place with rich history. Beautiful neat and clean place. Lots of choices of food available. However, there is not much guidance available at the place. No boards that tell tourists about the history. Secondly, no directions were available on how to get there. We had to hire a taxi who could drive us as a guide to the right area.

It's always fun walking around and exploring the old historic centre of Jeddah. There is a fair amount of renovation going on, as some of the buildings are quite old (and probably structurally unsafe), but once complete, it will enhance the Al Balad experience even more. The evening/ night time brings a different atmosphere to Al Balad, with the hustle bustle of cafes and shops, to some quiet, peaceful areas. A visit to Jeddah is not complete without visiting Al Balad.

Al Balad Historical Area in Jeddah is a must-visit for anyone interested in the rich history and culture of Saudi Arabia. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a fascinating blend of traditional architecture and vibrant local life. The best time to visit is during the winter months when the weather is pleasantly cool, making it perfect for leisurely strolls through the narrow streets. One of the highlights of visiting Al Balad is witnessing the area come alive during Ramadan. The atmosphere is electric, with stalls offering delicious local food, traditional music, and cultural events that celebrate the spirit of the season. It's an incredible time to immerse yourself in the local culture and experience the warmth of the community. As you explore, you’ll encounter stunning coral houses that date back to the 19th century and beautifully preserved mosques that reflect the region’s architectural heritage. Don't miss the chance to visit the bustling souks, where you can find everything from spices to handmade crafts. Overall, Al Balad is not just a historical site; it’s a living testament to Jeddah’s past and present. Whether you're a history buff or simply looking for a unique cultural experience, Al Balad offers something for everyone. I highly recommend visiting to soak in the history and vibrant atmosphere!