Explore Historic Jeddah

Jeddah’s Historic District is an enchanting location, historically considered to have been the gateway to Makkah, the Holy City. Pilgrims arriving at Jeddah’s Islamic Port pass through the old town, a pathway of welcome and hospitality before heading to their ultimate spiritual destination. The historic district was established in the 7th century AD as a major port, receiving goods and merchandise from the Indian Ocean trade route, such as spices, fabrics, perfumes, and precious metals. The historic district is a vestige of a simpler, more traditional way of life, with winding, snugly huddled souqs, mosques, and over 650 houses built over the centuries by Jeddah’s mercantile families. The architecture is characterized by the artistic use of limestone, wood, and coral stone, which can be found in blocks on the shore of the Red Sea. The stone is breathable and forms thick walls that keep out the heat. The facades of these houses are highlighted by trademark rawasheen (singular: roshan), which are hanging latticed teakwood windows of great artistry and craftsmanship. Historic Jeddah is also considered a multicultural center that has welcomed pilgrims and visitors from all over the world, inviting them into its vibrant heart. The Ministry of Culture’s mission is to preserve and celebrate the melting-pot heritage of this beloved location. By revitalizing forgotten spaces and supporting the town’s residents in thriving, the ministry empowers this location and its people to become a part of the Kingdom’s vital transformation.