Beach escapes, museums, concerts – why Jeddah's worth a visit this summer
If Jeddah didn't make your shortlist, it might be time for a rethink. With comedy shows, beach and shopping festivals, art-filled museums and world-class dining, the city surprises you in all the right ways.
For those looking for escapes that are closer to home, Jeddah's a strong contender. And yes, there's plenty to keep you busy from sunup to well past sundown.
Find out why Jeddah has to be on your summer itinerary.
Attend a music festival
This summer, MDLBEAST is dialling the buzz all the way up with a concert featuring some of the biggest names on the regional and international scene.
Expect high-octane performances from artists like Central Cee, R3HAB, Dafencii, Asayel, and Shaolin on August 1 at ONYX ARENA.
A highlight event to keep your eyes peeled for is Black Eyed Peas on Friday August 8.
From SAR200. Until Fri Aug 8. Onyx Arena, nofomo.com
Red Sea beaches come alive during West Coast
West Coast, the headline act of Jeddah Season 2025 running until Saturday October 4, lights up Red Sea beaches with live music, camps, fireplaces, water games and more.
Each beach along the coast offers something a little different, with one even dedicated exclusively to women. It's a full-on summer vibe, and you won't need to travel far to find the right patch of sand and sound that suits your mood.
Feed lemurs at Forest Wonders
Forest Wonders offers you a way to enjoy nature and wildlife indoors. If you're tired of being cooped up this summer, this is where to hit up.
This air-conditioned indoor event runs until Saturday August 30 at Al Mohammadiyyah.
Expect everything from animal encounters to floating entertainers and massive ball pits (the kiddos will love this one). There's even a special zone for furry friends, making it a great shout for families with young ones.
SAR25 (children), SAR45 (adults), SAR25 (lemur food), 4pm-11pm. Al Mohammadiya webook.com
Watch Arabic stand-up
Broken Phone, a stand-up and improv show under the One Mic banner, brings together Saudi's funniest talents.
The show is entirely in Arabic, starts at 9.15pm and includes free drinks, popcorn and ice cream. Good thing you'll be stuffed on snacks when you're falling off the chair laughing.
From SAR112. Every Thu, Fri, 9pm onwards. Saudi Music Hub. webook.com
Pilot a boat at Pearl Marina
For a change of pace, head down to Pearl Marina and hop on a boat ride.
Whether you fancy floating around on a yacht, trying out the quirky floating car, or simply watching the sea glimmer as you tuck into dinner at the waterfront, this is one of Jeddah's more laidback offerings.
Book online
Visit Jeddah's past at the House of Islamic Arts
If you're keen on looking back in time, the House of Islamic Arts is where you want to be. It's the first museum in Saudi Arabia dedicated entirely to Islamic art and it packs in over 1,000 artefacts from across the Islamic world.
The space is divided into six galleries, each exploring a different part of Islamic heritage.
Book lovers can check out the massive library filled with Arabic and English publications covering everything from history to literature. It's just the spot for a few quiet hours.
Sat-Thu, 10am-10pm, Fri 5pm-11pm, Jeddah Park Mall, 4th Floor, iarts.sa
Venture into the Red Sea
And of course, it wouldn't be Jeddah without a mention of the Red Sea. The waters here aren't just for admiring – they're made for diving, snorkelling, kayaking and windsurfing too.
The coral reefs are some of the most vibrant in the region and some of the rarest in the world, and with tranquil, crystal-clear waters year-round, it's a haven for both beginner and pro divers.
Fancy giving it a go? Book your watersports adventures through here.
Find out what's happening in Saudi Arabia this August
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