How to spend 96 hours in Jeddah this summer

26.06.2024 - 06:45 / breakingtravelnews.com

The city of Jeddah, Saudi’s coastal cosmopolitan hub and, historically, the home to worldwide arts and music, is a gathering spot for a variety of vibrant cultures.

Al Balad, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is Jeddah’s historical quarter where ancient coral stone houses are being restored, and new heritage-focused galleries, restaurants, luxury stores and cafes are emerging to create a buzzing cultural scene.

Whether it is with friends, family – or alone, Jeddah is super safe with Saudi ranking one of the safest places among G20 nations; it’s a country where hospitality and care for others is a way of life.

With its pristine Red Sea coastline, rich heritage celebrated by UNESCO and a lively cultural scene, the Jeddah of today is a unique blend of tradition and modernity that mirrors the deep changes taking place in Saudi.

Here is how to make the best of Jeddah in 96 hours this summer.

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Where to stay in Jeddah:

Best for authentic experiences: Beit Jokhdar, Beit Al Rayess and Beit Kedwan

In March 2024, three very plush boutique hotels launched in Al Balad (Beit Jokhdar, Beit Al Rayess and Beit Kedwan). The hotels are set in lovingly converted family homes, each carefully designed with a team of historians, local artists, carpenters and architects, and they’re filled with locally sourced products. Guests can enjoy authentic local food at the restaurant, unwind on the rooftop terrace with Saudi coffee at sunrise or stargaze at night, and marvel at bespoke touches - everything from the chocolates in the airport transfer to the scent of incense in the bedroom is personalised.

Best for city views: Assila

Enjoy a stylish stay and take advantage of so many offers at Saudi’s first art hotel, Assila. A tribute to Saudi’s burgeoning art scene, the hotel houses more than 2,000 pieces of original art by Saudi artists and the deals suit every type of traveller, ranging from a very cute offer for couples (running until January 2, 2025) or a 15% discount when you book a 3-night stay (running until December 5, 2024). And its super sleek, with Middle Eastern accents found throughout from Arabian-patterned carpet to vibrant tapestries, bespoke handwoven rugs and hanging lanterns. Unwind with in-room massages or at the spa and a rooftop pool, offering unparalleled views of the city.

Best for art-lovers: Shada Hotel

A modern Saudi boutique hotel and a female-run homegrown hotel brand, Shada Hotel Al Shatea offers a friendly welcome and a playful design rooted in Saudi culture and tradition – only a short walk from the Corniche. The brand works with local artists and designers to ensure that the hotel’s public spaces and rooms are filled with nods to different traditions from across Saudi.

Best for sea views: