Old city - Al Balad

The old city or Al Balad is situated south of the corniche (an endless road along the lovely Red Sea). 

This part of the city is mostly traditional family owned Souks (shops). 

You can expect to find anything you may think of (even some that you cannot!) and bargain as well. 

Mostly famous for fantastic Gold Souks, Perfumeries, Sheeshas (Hookah) and 

cheap electronic stuff PS3 and Xboxes are stocked by the roadside...

Some souks have a great variety of dates and because it is balad...feel free to bargain! 

   

With ancient coral houses all over, this old part takes you back in the '80s and is a charm of its own. 

  

Red Sea Secrets

The Red sea hides one of the best corals reefs in the world. 

Also, being home to some beautiful tropical fish, the Red Sea is an amazing place for snorkelling and diving. 

The high salt concentration makes snorkelling an attractive "To do" because you can simply float away on the surface for hours without even a single paddle....

Best locations for snorkelling are based around Jeddah, with countless private beaches all along the coast, which offer best preserved corals along with the necessary safety measures in place. These places usually charge an entry fee to the beach (Typically SAR 50-100 / person). The Dive shop rentals are extra. 

If you are on a budget, there are some good snorkel locations too north of Abhur (North Jeddah). But dont expect to find any safety measures around. Having said that, the shallow depths and calmness of the Red Sea, pose no evident danger on a usual day. 

Dive Shops 

The largest and the most economical rentals are from Desert Sea Divers who usually charge SAR 30 per person per day for the snorkel gear.  

They also have a few outlets all over Jeddah offer PADI certified dive courses as well.

Jeddah sea corniche