1. Step back in time in Al-Balad

A labyrinth of coral-stone alleys, intricately carved wooden windows and doors, Al-Balad, a UNESCO heritage site, invites slow, meandering strolls. As the cooler fall air settles in, explore its historic souks and seasonal art exhibitions spread around the gold souk, spice markets and ancient mosques. Every day is a festive day in Al-Balad, bringing people from different parts of the city together for artisanal workshops, traditional music and festive activities. Al-Balad is home to Jeddah’s creative community, with hubs such as Zawiya 97 drawing local artists who are working together to uplift the district with art studios, workshops, cultural spaces and installations that breathe new life into its whimsical alleys.

Meanwhile, guided history tours run through October, investigating landmarks like AlShafi’i Mosque and Beit Nassief, a historic mansion.  Most of the buildings in Al-Balad are more than two centuries old, standing as reminders of when it was the main gateway for Muslim pilgrims arriving by sea on their journey to Makkah.

2. Bayada Island

Just 40 minutes off the coast of Jeddah, lies Bayada Island, embraced by clear, pristine turquoise waters of the Red Sea. Surrounded by coral reefs and vibrant marine life, the island offers an array of exciting adventures including snorkeling, swimming, kayaking, and water games. A beautiful escape from the busy city life, Bayada Island presents uninterrupted sea views in every direction with no buildings in sight. The island is known as a tranquil haven for those in search of peace and wellness. Guided boat tours are easy to book and very popular among residents and tourists.

Overseen by the Saudi Red Sea Authority, the island’s development emphasizes sustainability, allowing visitors to enjoy nature in a sustainable environment. Bayada Island further enhances Jeddah’s standing as a top-tier coastal destination.

3. Red Sea International Film Festival

This December, the Red Sea International Film Festival will once again light up Al-Balad, where old-world charm meets fresh storytelling. Filmmakers from Saudi Arabia, the Middle East, Africa and Asia come together, showcasing a rich mix of feature-length films, shorts and the rising stars of Saudi cinema. Past editions have drawn names like Emily Blunt, Aamir Khan, Viola Davis, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Johnny Depp, Michelle Yeoh and Kareena Kapoor Khan, transforming the festival into a true crossroads of cultures and cinema. The festival’s vibrant Souk pulses with energy, offering a space for creators and industry experts to connect, pitch and spark new collaborations. It’s a celebration of culture, creativity and a reflection of Saudi Arabia’s growing voice on the global film stage. 

4. Jeddah Season 2025

Jeddah continues to redefine itself as a vibrant coastal city, and nowhere is this more evident than along its glistening waterfront, where leisurely beach strolls, seaside cafés, and panoramic views of the Red Sea define the city’s coastal charm. Mornings often begin with coffee enjoyed against the gentle hum of waves, while evenings invite residents and visitors alike to wander along the Corniche, soaking in the sunset and the lively atmosphere.

This serene lifestyle forms the backdrop for Jeddah Season 2025, returning with the theme “Jeddah is Different”—a phrase beloved by locals that captures the city’s distinctive blend of tradition and modernity. Jeddah Season features an array of cultural highlights, from drone displays illuminating the night sky to bustling markets, international concerts, and sporting spectacles such as the MDLBEAST music festival with headliners like the Black Eyed Peas, the 2025 WPA World Nine-ball Championship, and the Saudi Arabia Snooker Masters. Central to this is the West Coast Festival, which energizes Jeddah’s diverse beaches over 85 days with music, water sports, and family-friendly events.

Among its notable venues is Bambi Beach, a women-only oasis along Al Amwaj Front, where pink-themed lounges and floating pontoons offer a unique seaside retreat. As the Kashta Beach season begins, locals embrace the sands with relaxed picnics and shared moments, underscoring Jeddah’s enduring relationship with its coastline. Together, these elements cement the city’s reputation as a thriving coastal destination where nature, culture, and community flow seamlessly.

5. Discover Jeddah’s homegrown cafes

Jeddah’s café scene has something for everyone. Spots like Locals, AlMokha and Meraki are buzzing with energy and a real sense of community. Brew92, Medd and Ceffeinelab take their coffee seriously, roasting their own beans to perfection. Goodhood serves the best matcha, luring in millennials and Gen Z. Whether you’re in the mood to chill with friends or dive deep into a perfect cup, there’s a spot for every kind of coffee lover.

6. Join the morning club

Jeddawis find a way to make outdoor sports fun and irresistible. Jeddah Corniche is alive with early-morning runners, cyclists cruising the seaside path and skaters weaving through the breeze. Just around the corner, the F1 track turns into a local favorite for daily morning runs and community rides. Add to that the city’s growing padel scene, and you’ve got an outdoor culture that’s fun, social and full of energy.

7. Discover Jeddah’s burgeoning art scene

Jeddah has long been a beacon for art lovers, its creative energy pulsing through both historic quarters and modern spaces. The city’s streets are vibrant canvases themselves. Jeddah's mural art history traces its origins to the early 1970s, when then-Mayor Mohammed Said Farsi embarked on an ambitious beautification initiative, which led to creating installations across the coastal city. Collaborating with renowned Saudi artist Abdulhalim Radwi, the project aimed to enrich public spaces with large-scale installations that reflected the city's cultural heritage. This initiative marked the beginning of Jeddah's transformation into an open-air museum, setting the stage for the city's vibrant mural and public art scene.

Today, contemporary galleries like Athr, Zawiya, Hayy Jameel and Lam Art Hub among others, showcase pioneering works by Saudi and international artists, blending heritage with innovation. Hayy Jameel is a contemporary creative hub where exhibitions, workshops, and performances converge, fueling the city’s ever-expanding art and film scene. TeamLab offers a groundbreaking exploration of creativity, inviting guests to lose themselves in ever-changing installations that respond to movement and touch. It’s a bold addition to Jeddah’s evolving cultural tapestry, bridging cutting-edge innovation with a deep appreciation for art and wonder.

Illustration image: ©Ayman Zaid/iStock