Pristine beaches, world-class resorts on the Red Sea, top restaurants, shopping malls and cultural attractions like Al Balad or the modern and contemporary sculptures lining the Corniche – Jeddah, the Kingdom’s second-largest city, has long been a draw for people from around the world.
Families visiting the city will find numerous captivating and culturally inspiring attractions to delight them. This coastal beauty, like the rest of the Kingdom, experiences higher temperatures from around May through October, but the remaining months of the year, particularly during the winter season, are recommended for families with kids wishing to explore both breathtaking beaches and fun attractions. Get ready for a warm welcome alongside blissfully cool sea breezes on a family trip to Jeddah.
1. Experience the beauty of Masjid Al Rahma (Floating Mosque)
Long one of the most popular places to visit in Jeddah is the Masjid Al Rahma. Situated on the banks of the Jeddah Corniche, it appears to be floating on the water when the tide is in. Built in 1985, the mosque is structured and decorated according to Islamic architectural motifs and design. In the evening, when the tides are low, the supporting pillars of the mosque can be seen, making for a beautiful and ethereal sight.
2. Discover an underwater world at Fakieh Aquarium
The only aquarium that is open to the public in Saudi Arabia, the Fakieh Aquarium, located just off Al Kurnaysh Road on the city’s north corniche, is a fun attraction for families to visit. It features a variety of exotic sea creatures, including dolphins, turtles, stonefish, sharks, turtles and jellyfish. One activity not to miss is the dolphin show that happens daily at 7:15pm (there’s a second show at 9:30pm on Thursdays and Fridays).
You don’t even have to leave the aquarium to enjoy a delicious family meal – the Blue Ocean restaurant is a Miami Beach-themed eatery on-site that has options for everyone.
3. Family fun and retail therapy at the Mall of Arabia
During the hot summer months, a great place to cool off with the family is undoubtedly the Mall of Arabia. Spread over an expanse of 261,000 square meters, this mall, the biggest in Jeddah, has over 408 shops and stores, ranging from famous international brands to local stores offering unique traditional and homegrown products. It is also a favourite family destination for the many activities on offer. These include indoor play village Kidzania, cinemas, and even a football park, as well as numerous restaurants and cafes where you can relax after a bustling day or the summer heat as the kids play safely.
4. Step back in time in Al Balad
A trip to Jeddah isn’t complete without checking out the city’s impressive history and heritage sites, the most famous being Al Balad. One of the oldest cities in Saudi Arabia, the historic district was built during the 7th century and served as the centre of Jeddah. It maintains several of its old, traditionally built stone coral houses that are typical examples of Hejazi architecture, with their wooden balconies and windows made with intricate latticework and mashrabiya detailing.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, notable attractions to visit include Al Nassif House and Al Jamjoom House, which whisk visitors back to the early days of Saudi Arabia. There are numerous museums opened and under construction as well as lively cafés and restaurants – worth a trip to understand the heritage and unique culture of Jeddah. Even just a wander through the lively streets is an adventure, with souqs beckoning you in and food stalls offering snacks.
5. Thrills for the whole family at Al Shallal
Jeddah is home to one of the best and biggest theme parks in the KSA – Al Shallal. This massive fun zone on the Corniche is a winner with both adults and kids, as it has rides, games and shows to suit thrill-seekers and gentler souls alike. There’s a merry-go-round, boat rides and Tea Cups for those who prefer a slower pace, while at the other end of the scale you’ll find a twisting rollercoaster and terrifying Sling Shot that catapults riders into the sky.
Elsewhere in the park you’ll find a bowling alley, ice-skating rink, video games arcade and magic show, plus a good selection of restaurants and snack kiosks. Al Shallal is particularly popular during the summer months, as it stays open very late (until 1am on Thursday and Friday) allowing visitors to stay out and take advantage of the cool nights. Ladies-only hours are on Wednesdays.
6. Take a break from the busy city at Silver Sands Beach
If you’re traveling to Jeddah with the family during the city’s cooler months, you must head to the beach. Members-only Silver Sands is positioned away from the hustle and bustle of other Red Sea beaches and offers a quieter place from which to enjoy the pristine sands and sparkling waters.
It is located on Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Street, Al Lulu, and is a private beach that offers visitors a delightful experience. Be sure to enjoy family-friendly activities such as jet skiing and snorkelling, and catch sight of the alluring coral reefs amid the calm turquoise waters. The shallow waters by the beach are perfect for tiny tots.
7. Enjoy the dazzling Souq Shatee
For more shopping done in a traditional manner away from the sprawling modern malls, head to Souq Shatee. One of Jeddah’s most renowned marketplaces, it is easily accessible on King Abdulaziz Road and is home to over 100 small unique stores popular among locals and tourists for the variety of items offered, including jewellery, abayas, toys, thobes, footwear, perfumes, incense and bakhoor. Head here for a more authentic shopping experience – the colours, sounds and smells will dazzle the kids.
8. Cool off at Cyan Waterpark
Jeddah’s Cyan Waterpark was the top choice for families in the Kingdom before the spectacular arrival of Aquarabia, but it's still an impressive option. The water is chilled and there are both high-octane and relaxed areas to have fun in, including slides, flumes, wave pools and a lot of splashy rides.
Older kids will enjoy the thrill of the Spinner and Black Hole, while those after a more laid back experience can enjoy floating along the flowing Lazy River. There are restaurants and cafes galore on-site, and the family-friendly changing facilities are kept clean. Sundays and Wednesdays are for women only, and there is dress code guidance for the whole family – check their website for details before you go. Buy an express pass in advance to beat the queues.
