Jeddah’s souqs are a central part of the city’s heritage, representing its cosmopolitan trading past, its culture, its artistic and culinary traditions and much more. That’s why a visit to the souqs of the city is more than a shopping spree, it’s a chance to immerse yourself in everyday Jeddah life, chat with vendors and soak up the atmosphere.
The best souqs in Jeddah sell a variety of goods, including dates, perfumed oils, spices, clothing and trinkets, but beyond that, certain markets are renowned for particular products, such as gold, homewares or abayas, for example.
As a rule, haggling in souqs is expected, so feel free to ask for discounts on the price tags, depending on how much you’re willing to pay for an item. The etiquette is to take the process slowly, enjoy some chitchat and stay polite and relaxed throughout the bartering – not only is this the best way to get a good price, but is also the best way to enjoy the experience.
Remember also not to take pictures in souqs without asking permission from vendors first and anyone else who might be in the shot. Since most souqs are at least partially outdoors, it’s often best to visit in the evenings when the weather is cooler and the streets are livelier.
1. Qabel Trail (Gabel Street Souq)
If you had a picture of a traditional Arabian souq in your mind’s eye before arriving in Saudi Arabia, chances are it looked a lot like the Qabel Trail. This busy, authentic old-town marketplace dates back to the early 20th century and is packed with stalls selling perfumes, oils, herbs and spices.
Take a few moments during your visit to admire the heritage architecture with wooden doors and windows in many of the buildings lining the historic streets. Qabel Trail also has a long-standing and popular gold souk selling jewellery and trinkets – it’s certainly an atmospheric, glittering place to visit, but be sure to thoroughly check the authenticity of anything expensive you plan to buy here.
If you’re visiting Jeddah during special occasions, such as during Ramadan or Eid, make sure to visit Qabel Trail in the evening, as there’s often an extra buzz with food stalls open and entertainment taking place until late.
2. Souq Al Murjan
Head to the Al Safa neighbourhood to explore the market known as the ‘Syrian Market,’ due to its history as a hotspot for Syrian merchants selling a diverse array of goods from overseas. Souq Al Murjan is still a great place to purchase something authentic to bring back for your home, as there are beautiful tableware sets and decorative handicrafts sold here, as well as oud and incense.
Prices tend to be low – even before you start bartering – and the budget-friendly clothing and jewellery stalls are the perfect place to pick up some inexpensive local fashions. Souq Al Murjan is also a great option for anyone shopping with children, as there’s a playground on-site at the market.
3. Souq Al Alawi
Dive straight into the action in Souq Al Alawi, which is one of the biggest and oldest souqs in Saudi Arabia. It’s one of the most famous Al Balad souqs, sprawling from Al Dahab St right into the centre of the old town. Leave a couple of hours for wandering the market stalls, chatting to vendors and browsing the goods – this is definitely somewhere to visit for the bustling atmosphere as well for the bargains.
Look out for crafts, Islamic artworks, Arabian jewellery in silver and gold, and traditional men’s and women’s clothing here, alongside all sorts of other goods. While most of Jeddah is extra busy around the Hajj period, that’s especially true of this market, as Souk Al Alawi is popular with pilgrims picking up gifts for those back home or mementos of their trip. Prayer beads, rugs and pictures of the Two Holy Mosques are also commonly found in the shops here.
4. Bedouin Market
Dive into the lively Bedouin market to shop, explore, and discover more about the nomadic Arab tribal people at the same time. Though some of the more traditional goods stores have disappeared in recent years (largely to be replaced by fabric stalls), you can still find some of the original outlets doing business here.
These sell carpets, rugs and textiles, many of which are handwoven in designs that represent the regional culture. Look out for the remaining antique shops too, selling goods such as copper cooking pots and brass dallahs (coffee pots).
5. Al Shatea Market
If you’re shopping for an abaya, try Al Shatea Market in the Al Zahra neighbourhood. There’s a wide choice of low-cost abaya stores here, selling everyday and special occasion garments, as well as other clothing outlets, particularly for ladieswear and kid’s clothes.
Conveniently, lots of tailors are also based here and can do quick alterations on your purchases, e.g. adjusting your new abaya to fit, for a very reasonable price. Looking to complete your look? There are plenty of accessories, beauty, make-up and perfume shops here too. After finishing your shopping, refuel from one of the cafes or snack stands that line the shopping area.
6. Souq Almena
Expect to get lost in the sprawling Souq Almena, which covers more than 9 sq km in the southwest of Jeddah. This destination market is very commercial – it’s known as a hub for merchants and wholesalers – but by the same token is a great place to get a bargain on furniture, electronics, homeware and everyday supplies.
As well as the modern goods, it’s also possible to find more traditional crafts and souvenirs here. There are also lots of second-hand stalls, perfect for picking up good-quality, authentic goods at lower costs, and a great opportunity to practice your haggling skills.
