JEDDAH
A commercial hub and sea port for many centuries, Jeddah is now one of Saudi Arabia’s most cosmopolitan city resorts, where visitors can soak up the history and find the multitude of malls and restaurants an excellent diversion
TRADITIONAL ARCHITECTURE IS BEING PRESERVED
NASEEF HOUSE
Situated on Souq al-Alawi, this famous residence was home to one of Jeddah's main trading families, the Naseefs. King Abdulaziz Al Saud, founder of modern-day Saudi Arabia, was a regular guest at the house whenever he visited Jeddah. The house has 106 rectangular rooms arranged around a central hall. Restored in the '90s, it now acco- mmodates a cultural centre. The buildings throughout the residence feature cut stones or mud bricks, carved woodwork windows and walls and hori- zontally placed latticed wooden poles. Artistic work on tiles can also be seen together with Arabic calligraphy.
Half-day afternoon tour Two to 20
Arrive early to ensure entry 14
SOUQS
Of the various marketplaces dotted around Al-Balad, there are perhaps four which prove most popular with inhabitants and tourists alike. Souq Al Nada predominantly sells gold and silver ornaments, while Souq Al Jamia is the city's primary textile market. Cutting through this district from east to west is Souq Al Alawi, with the Gabel Street Souq selling everything from perfumes, dates and household items to electronics and spices. Bartering remains a strong practice and, with so many mer- chants offering similar goods, it's best to walk away if a trader is unwilling to negotiate on price.
Part of Old Town tour Two to 20
Best viewed in the after- noon after prayer times
JEDDAH, OLD TOWN
AL-BALAD (OLD TOWN) During the oil boom of the '70s and '80s many Jeddawis moved north leaving behind the ancient houses and traditional souks built of coral and thus forming the Old Town. The gates to Al-Balad (Old Town) still stand, but the city wall has long-since disap- peared. Nevertheless, there is still much to see.
Founded in the 7th century, many buildings have suffered over time, but there remains much to explore, protected by the Historical Area Preservation Department. Al-Balad's main market street, Souq al-Alawi, is lined by coral houses on either side and is well worth a visit.
Half-day afternoon tour Two to 20
Best viewed in the afternoon when shops open after prayer
KEY Ideal for Group size Timings Top tip
PHOTO LIBRARY
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