Jeddah, at first glance, appeals to those with a taste for history and culture thanks to its longstanding dual role – serving as a crossroads for pilgrims and maritime traders alike has resulted in the kind of multiculturalism that is palpable in everything from its colourful marketplaces and culinary diversity to distinct architectural traditions.
A closer look, however, reveals that its geographical location also lends itself to plenty of adrenaline-packed activities. The city's urban area stands between the Red Sea coast to the west and the Al Hejaz escarpment to the east. And like the rest of the country, the allure of this region's landscapes is only amplified by how truly untrodden they remain. Here, we delve into the best outdoor experiences in Jeddah, both in the city and beyond.
1. Tour Al Balad with a local guide in tow
A gateway to the country's unique cultural legacy, the historic district of Al Balad is best explored on foot – its maze-like lanes, historic landmarks, and traditional architecture turn an average stroll into a trip down memory lane. And while there are several walking tours of this UNESCO-designated heritage site to choose from, those led by Ayat AlSharif of Ayat’s Tours are especially popular. A passionate guide whose Historic District Tour with a Local Guide is listed on Viator, she's not only highly knowledgeable about Jeddah's oldest neighbourhood but also shares meaningful insights from the perspective of a Saudi woman.
You'll discover wooden towers and coral-stone houses, many of which were built by the city's mercantile elites and have evolved into creative hubs like Zawiya 97 and museums such as Matbouli House Museum. The tour lasts four hours, leaving you plenty of time to browse the area's bustling souks and quirky souvenir stores before refuelling with sobia – a cooling drink native to the Hejaz region – at the artistic Sobia Bar.
2. Take a leisurely stroll along Jeddah Corniche
Another area best explored on foot, for families in particular, is Jeddah Corniche. Also known as Jeddah Waterfront, this promenade along the coast of the Red Sea spans 30 kilometres worth of green spaces, children's play areas, outdoor gyms, public beaches, art installations, palm-lined pathways for pedestrians and cyclists. It also boasts a whole host of cafés and restaurants, making it a favourite among residents on weekends, when it's filled with a festive air.
Jeddah Corniche is also home to one of the city's best vantage points for King Fahd's Fountain (recognised by Guinness World Records as the tallest in the world), leading people to linger until sunset. Few sights in the city can top that of water shooting up to a staggering 312 metres in the air, especially when it coincides with the soft pinks and vibrant oranges of nature's nightly show.
Taking an Uber? Set The Ritz-Carlton Jeddah as your destination, then cross the road to the waterfront for a ringside seat to the fountain. Don't hightail it out of the vicinity, though – the nearby Al Rahmah Mosque, aka the Floating Mosque, is beautifully illuminated at night and well worth a visit.
3. Ride a horse along the beach
Considering the country's deep-rooted love for all things equestrian, horse riding in Jeddah feels as cultural an activity as it does outdoorsy – and is one of the most serene ways to encounter the Red Sea. Sure, you could book a session at the likes of Elite Equestrian Club or City Horse Stable northeast of the city centre, but closer to the coast, the private horse riding sessions offered by Muhannad Ghazi win rave reviews due to the calm waters of Dhahban Beach.
Available to book via Viator, they're also highly rated for the emphasis on safety, regardless of one's equestrian skills. A guide will ensure that you're acquainted with your horse (tailored to your experience level, of course) at the stable before accompanying you as you ride it to the sea and back. As for the combination of Arabian horses and a setting sun? Downright magical.
4. Escape to the dunes on a desert safari
The definitive outdoor activity for first-time visitors, a desert safari is the best way to experience the splendour and stillness of Saudi Arabia's vast, arid landscapes. The standard offering is led by terrain experts and includes sandboarding, camel riding, and the unforgettable thrills of dune bashing over and across rolling dunes in a 4x4 vehicle.
Unlike those that kick off early in the morning, the Evening Desert Safari Jeddah by My Saudi Tours wins our vote for its extras under a clear, moonlit sky – stargazing hits different in the wilderness of the desert, after all. A nice bonus is that quad biking can be added on if even more exhilaration is in order. Be warned, though: it's best to avoid heavy meals beforehand. And if you're prone to motion sickness, take your medicine 30 to 60 minutes before the desert safari begins.
5. Trek across the surreal surroundings of Moon Valley
The opportunities for chasing adrenaline continue at the aptly named Moon Valley, where narrow caves and otherworldly rock formations collectively form a landscape that resembles the lunar surface because of a rather complex geologic process, making it among the best places to hike near Jeddah. It only draws the most curious of Jeddahwis, too – few are privy to this hidden gem that's also perfect for camping, bouldering and stargazing (especially around a new moon when the skies are darkest).
Located roughly 120km from the city, Moon Valley is actually a desert, not a valley, so the period from October to March is the best time to visit. And while you could make your own way there, first-timers are highly encouraged to book a licensed tour for a hassle-free experience.
Tip: book your excursion through Abha Trips for an adventure that's paired with a meditation session, helping you form a deeper connection with your surroundings. Just be sure to bring your own mat.
6. Explore the uncharted waters of the Red Sea
Diving in Jeddah is, quite simply, an unmissable experience. Private marinas and seasoned dive centres aside, the city's beach club scene is also thriving, which means underwater explorers are spoilt for choice. And between its intriguing shipwrecks, hyper-diverse coral reefs, and over 2,000 marine species, the Red Sea is a diver's paradise – swimming alongside a hawksbill turtle or herd of large, languid dugongs is hard to beat.
It's also a year-round activity as the sea remains warm all through winter. And if descending 40 metres beneath the surface of the water sounds too intimidating, snorkelling in Jeddah comes a close second. Suitable for most ages, this is an excursion that guarantees fascinating aquatic encounters owing to the famously clear waters of the Red Sea.
7. Cruise around Obhur Bay aboard a yacht
A loftier way to enjoy the Red Sea is to charter a yacht for a sail around Obhur Bay, known by locals as the “Bride of the Red Sea”. Extending 11km along its east coast, this scenic inlet is a prime tourist hub packed with leisure facilities, theme parks and water sports. A sunset cruise, incidentally, makes for a perfect getaway if you're pressed for time – Obhur Bay is located only 30km from the city centre, translating to an easily accessible way to wind down with uninterrupted sunset views and sea breezes as a hectic day of exploration draws to a close.
We suggest booking through a reputable operator like Red Sea Marina; the boating centre has been operating since 1987, and its luxurious Sheraton One yacht measures 25.5 metres in length and comes equipped with creature comforts such as four cabins with private bathrooms. A little further afield, Bayada Island beckons if you're looking to take an island trip near Jeddah and have time to spare. This well-kept secret is an essential destination if your itinerary feels incomplete without vivid blue waters and white sandy beaches.
