One stop destination for shopping and entertainment in Jeddah

It was November 2003 and I was flying from London to India via Saudi Arabian Airlines. My itinerary had a stopover at a city called Jeddah. To be honest that was probably the first time I actually realized that there was a city by that name in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. At that time it was just a stopover for me for a few hours. Of course, I was confined to the airport only and maybe that is why I never realized that Jeddah is actually a larger than life city never really registered because as a flyer all airports are the same, whether it is Heathrow or Jeddah.

It is only after so many years and now that I am writing on the subject, I have realised that Jeddah is a beautiful city, in fact, a commercial hub too, in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It is also the second biggest city of the Kingdom and the gateway to the holy cities of Mecca and Medina. In fact, it is safe to say that when you go on the Hajj to Mecca you automatically go a Hajj to Jeddah too as all roadways and airways stop and Jeddah and from here people drive, get the bus or taxi to Mecca and Medina.

Jeddah is known by many different names. The very meaning of Jeddah in Arabic is “grandmother”. The city is called so as Eve, the grandmother of the universe and the lady who ate the forbidden fruit is buried here.

Jeddah is also called the “Bride of the Sea”, mainly because of the amazing marine life found in the Red Sea.

If anyone had ever told me all those years ago that Jeddah was indeed one of the most spectacular holiday destinations, I would have thought they were mad. Who went on Holiday to Jeddah? If you look at brochures, you will never see Jeddah anywhere. However on hindsight, had I known it is a beautiful place to relax and unwind, with tonnes of entertainment in Jeddah, I would actually have taken a detour and enjoyed its sights rather than barely have a brushing experience with her.

FAMOUS ATTRACTIONS

      1. THE FLOATING MOSQUE

The white Mosque of Jeddah, as it is known is ideally located strategically on the Corniche, surrounded by the beautiful sea.  It gives a feel that it is actually floating on water, hence the reason for its name.

From here, you get the most amazing views. The architect is a blend of Arabic and modern style with an amazing interior and the beautifully lit rooftop, making it a perfect postcard picture.  Irrespective of religious beliefs, castes and creed the mosque is open to anyone who wants to pray there. It is said that it calms the mind of anyone who visits it.

 

      2. FAKEIH AQUARIUM

The aquarium is a one stop destination for people and children of all ages.  From the thrilling shark tunnel to the amazing aquarium tour, it is one place that you will thoroughly enjoy. The dolphin show is also a popular show that all visitors like. There is also a beach style restaurant where you can finish your day off after that most amazing marine experience.

 

      3. KING FAHD’S FOUNTAIN

This is the world’s tallest fountain. Known as the Jeddah fountain, it is a man-made monument that is the perfect epitome of grace and beauty. The intricate design is actually a very good insight into what the human brain is capable of creating. At a height of 312meters, it dominates the Jeddah skyline and is a marvel to visit in the evenings, especially at sunset.

 

      4. SHOPPING MALLS

Jeddah is the new New York. A trip to the city is incomplete if you do not explore the Best entertainment venue in Jeddah, along with some of the bets shopping centres found in the world.  

 

AL SALAAM MALL – This mall houses 200 shops with 35 food outlets. The stores sell anything from high street stuff to international brands. Al Salaam Mall is also the home of the biggest indoor theme park in Jeddah where there are over 23 amusement games and rides, capable of keeping every child entertained.

 

RED SEA MALL – The largest mall in the Middle East, it covers an area of 242,200 square metres. It has shops that sell almost everything conceivable, from household to designer items. It has a large number of eat outs and cafes where you can fortify that energy you have lost whilst shopping. If you are too tired to even go back to your hotel, you can just check in at the five-star Al Elaf Hotel and relax with a bath whilst sipping champagne. The perfect end to a perfect day. It cannot get any better.