Your 10-Day Jeddah & Al-Ula Itinerary: From Naseef House to Hegra

Visit the historic Bab Makkah (Makkah Gate), one of the original entrances to Old Jeddah, and explore the surrounding vibrant traditional markets.

"The gate that leads to the holy city of Mekkah!!! Nice attraction just a small walk from the historical city center of Jeddah."— George Trantas

Immerse yourself in the UNESCO World Heritage site of Al-Balad, wandering its labyrinthine alleys, admiring the unique coral stone architecture, and soaking in the historic atmosphere.

"I visited Old Jeddah (Al-Balad) and honestly didn’t expect the vibe to feel this different from the rest of the city. The old buildings, wooden balconies, and narrow streets make you feel like you’re walking in a living museum. I spent some time just walking around and randomly find small shops, street food, corners that look really aesthetic for photos. The area feels busy but still charming in its own way. I came around late afternoon and stayed until sunset, the lighting made everything look even prettier. If you’re in Jeddah and want to see a totally different side of the city, this place is 100% worth visiting✨"— Yulian Dwi Anggraeni

Discover one of Jeddah's most iconic historic houses in Al-Balad, offering insights into traditional Hejazi life and architecture through its beautifully preserved rooms.

"Bayt Nassif Museum was high on my list of places to visit in Jeddah, so I was a bit disappointed when I arrived and realized it was closed. I didn’t pay close enough attention to the opening hours on Google Maps. Still, the building itself is very interesting from the outside, with beautiful traditional architecture and lots of character. Just seeing it made me more curious about what’s inside. I’ll definitely make sure to come back and visit properly next time I’m in Jeddah."— Eric L

Stroll along the modern northern section of Jeddah's scenic waterfront promenade, taking in the refreshing sea breeze and admiring the contemporary public art installations.

"Jeddah Waterfront – A Modern Seaside Gem, It is located Along the Red Sea coast in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia and Also Known As Jeddah Corniche. The Jeddah Waterfront is a beautifully developed public space that stretches along the city’s Red Sea coast. It’s one of the most popular recreational spots for locals, tourists, and families, offering a perfect blend of nature, leisure, art, and culture. It has Breathtaking views of the Red Sea, especially at sunset, Wide and clean promenades with palm trees, artistic installations, and fountains.The jeddah waterfront has Children’s play areas , Cycling and jogging paths, Open green spaces and picnic areas, Skateboarding zones and fitness equipment. It's Open 24/7, free entry. It Can be crowded on weekends and holidays, Limited shaded areas during midday heat,Parking can be challenging during peak hours. Overall The Jeddah Waterfront is a shining example of urban development that respects both natural beauty and cultural aesthetics. It’s a must-visit whether you’re a resident or a tourist looking to unwind by the sea."— Explore WITH Mominul

Continue discovering more sections of the expansive Jeddah Corniche, visiting additional public parks and viewpoints along the beautiful Red Sea coastline.

"Jeddah Waterfront – A Modern Seaside Gem, It is located Along the Red Sea coast in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia and Also Known As Jeddah Corniche. The Jeddah Waterfront is a beautifully developed public space that stretches along the city’s Red Sea coast. It’s one of the most popular recreational spots for locals, tourists, and families, offering a perfect blend of nature, leisure, art, and culture. It has Breathtaking views of the Red Sea, especially at sunset, Wide and clean promenades with palm trees, artistic installations, and fountains.The jeddah waterfront has Children’s play areas , Cycling and jogging paths, Open green spaces and picnic areas, Skateboarding zones and fitness equipment. It's Open 24/7, free entry. It Can be crowded on weekends and holidays, Limited shaded areas during midday heat,Parking can be challenging during peak hours. Overall The Jeddah Waterfront is a shining example of urban development that respects both natural beauty and cultural aesthetics. It’s a must-visit whether you’re a resident or a tourist looking to unwind by the sea."— Explore WITH Mominul

Visit the impressive King Fahad Mosque, known for its grand architecture and peaceful atmosphere, offering a deeper insight into local spiritual traditions.

"Very beautiful mosque"— Jaanbaaz Hashmi

Admire the unique architecture of this mosque built partially over the water, offering serene views of the Red Sea and a peaceful spiritual experience.

"A Must-Visit for Peace and Beauty My visit to the Al Rahmah Mosque, famously known as the Floating Mosque, was an absolutely serene and uplifting experience. We arrived in the early noon, which I highly recommend. The atmosphere was incredibly peaceful, with only a few other visitors around, allowing us to fully appreciate the mosque's stunning architecture and tranquil setting without any crowds. The staff mentioned that it gets busier after 5 PM, so for a more contemplative visit, aim for the daytime. The mosque is every bit as beautiful as the pictures suggest. Built over the Red Sea, it truly lives up to its "floating" name when the tide is high. The white marble and elegant domes against the backdrop of the crystal-clear, clean blue water create a breathtaking sight. Inside, the sense of calm is profound; I felt truly blessed and at peace. A welcoming aspect for international visitors is that there is no compulsion for women to wear a full abaya or hijab at the entrance, though modest dress is respectfully appreciated. An added bonus is the opportunity to see the mosque from the water. There are yachts and boat tours available nearby, offering a unique perspective of this magnificent structure from the sea. Whether for spiritual reflection, architectural admiration, or simply to witness one of Jeddah's most iconic landmarks, the Al Rahmah Mosque is a must-see. Its combination of beauty, peace, and a welcoming atmosphere makes it a highlight of any trip to Jeddah."— Pranav Patil

Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of one of Jeddah's oldest and most vibrant traditional markets. Explore its alleys filled with spices, perfumes, textiles, and local crafts. Engage with vendors and observe daily life, a true cultural and historical experience.

"Very interesting place to visit in Jeddah: historic; magnificent and full of flavours of old Era; have a walk through the narrow street of the market ; get some herbs; gifts and souvenirs; if you visit Jeddah you must visit this place."— Ahmed AbdElghany

Discover the unique coral-stone architecture and intricate wooden Roshans (balconies) of Historic Jeddah. This walk focuses on the specific design elements and historical significance of the district's buildings, offering a deeper insight into the area's rich heritage.

"I visited Old Jeddah (Al-Balad) and honestly didn’t expect the vibe to feel this different from the rest of the city. The old buildings, wooden balconies, and narrow streets make you feel like you’re walking in a living museum. I spent some time just walking around and randomly find small shops, street food, corners that look really aesthetic for photos. The area feels busy but still charming in its own way. I came around late afternoon and stayed until sunset, the lighting made everything look even prettier. If you’re in Jeddah and want to see a totally different side of the city, this place is 100% worth visiting✨"— Yulian Dwi Anggraeni

Stroll through this unique open-air museum along the Corniche, featuring a collection of modern and traditional sculptures by Saudi and international artists.

"We have always loved this whimsical Jeddah roundabout."— Suzie Vesper

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the scenic Al-Hamra Corniche, taking in the sea breeze, panoramic Red Sea views, and the vibrant atmosphere of Jeddah's modern waterfront.

"Nice place to watch the sunset and mix with families having picnics on the grass. Good place to see the fountain byt unfortunately under maintenance while I was there"— Steve S

Embark on an exhilarating snorkeling adventure in the clear waters of the Red Sea. Discover vibrant marine life and coral reefs near Obhur Creek.

"What an amazing experience!! Captain Mimi is a lovely guy - funny but tough - he’ll make sure you won’t get out of the water before you master the skills. It was a great weekend down in La Plage, met a bunch of cool people and made some nice friends. If you’re in Jeddah and want to go diving, 100% recommend to go with Mimi. He’ll make your weekend worth while"— Christian Caratas

Immerse yourself in Saudi Arabian and broader Islamic history and culture at this extensive private museum, showcasing artifacts, traditional houses, and exhibits on the region's heritage.

"An unusual and huge collection of objects and artifacts covering a wide and quirky selection of themes and topics. An eclectic mix of everything, from proper art, to anchient objects to souvenir trinkets. Amazing and weird at the same time. Reminds me of those curiosity cabinets of old. 100% worth a visit, and worth every penny of the entrance fee. Alone the complex itself is worth seeing. I especially liked the ethnological parts, showing life and dress of different regions of Saudi. If you come to Jeddah, take the time to visit."— ArHaW whoknows

Discover contemporary art from Saudi Arabia and the wider Arab world at Athr Gallery, a leading art space promoting emerging and established regional artists.

"Warning to suppliers. We worked with ATHR Gallery in Paris on an event in october 2023, but despite multiple reminders, our invoices remain unpaid a year later. We strongly advise caution to any vendors or partners considering working with this company."— Elie Bruno Rebeiz

Depart from your Jeddah accommodation and transfer to King Abdulaziz International Airport for your domestic flight to Al-Ula.

"Fix your governmental security guards attitude. They are rude and this is not the first time they do that."— Review Guru

Embark on a domestic flight from Jeddah to Al-Ula, including airport procedures and a scenic flight over the Saudi landscape.

"It looks pretty new, and it's pretty small as well. There are not many flights a day and the check in process was a breeze for me as there were not a lot of people and passengers at the airport. After checking in had to wait for a while for the immigration to open. Quite weird the timing shown on the screen wasn't consistent with the actual departure time. Arrivals could have just walked directly to the airport instead. And for departures there's only 2 gates. There's a cafe at the departures area but I managed to try the dunkin donuts before entering immigration. There is wifi only in the public area. I had to go to the visitor information counter to get the password. Please don't make it so inconvenient for passengers. Lost my wifi access after I entered into the transit area."— Matthew Lee

Explore Dadan, the ancient capital of the Dadanite and Lihyanite kingdoms, and marvel at the intricate Lion Tombs. Then, visit Jabal Ikmah, an 'open-air library' with thousands of ancient rock inscriptions set against a stunning desert landscape, offering insights into early civilizations.

"A really interesting small museum here, and the guide is really great. However, could not get close to the tombs and could only see them through binoculars. I forgot to look for the lions through them and left feeling like I missed something. At the Visitors' Center they said I could go back but I ran out of time. The highlight was a walk through the old neighbourhood where people actually lived 3000 years ago"— Adam Rogers

Immerse yourself in the beautifully preserved mud-brick architecture of AlUla Old Town. Wander through its narrow, winding streets, discover hidden courtyards, and experience the unique ambiance as the sun begins to set, casting golden hues over the historic buildings and the surrounding oasis.

"Entrance: Free Parking: Free parking but you have to find your own. Area: too spacious When Old city meets the current city. The idea is amazing. As it’s crowded but i can say, I enjoyed my time walking and looking around. Yes its crowded for some area but its quite. People respect the place as you will not hear any loud voices talking but only the history music coming from every corner. You must visit this."— J L

Ascend to Harrat Viewpoint to witness breathtaking panoramic night views of Al-Ula's illuminated valley, contrasting the dark desert landscape with the distant lights of the Old Town and other features.

"This location is ideal for experiencing breathtaking views during early mornings and enchanting sunsets in the afternoon. The parking facilities are ample and convenient, making it easy to access the site. At the top, there’s a restaurant with a fantastic atmosphere; although we didn’t dine there, I can only imagine how delightful it would be to enjoy a refreshing drink. The panoramic views from the restaurant are nothing short of spectacular, providing a perfect backdrop for a relaxing outing. Extra safety and parent watchful eyes are needed due to the low barricade."— Jancelle Lee

Explore the magnificent Nabatean tombs carved into sandstone mountains at Hegra, Saudi Arabia's first UNESCO World Heritage site and an ancient spiritual burial ground. Marvel at the intricate facades and learn about the ancient civilization that once thrived here.

"Incredible site and a highlight of our trip to Saudi Arabia. An amazing combination of surreal landscape with a large archeological camp of rock tombs. They have a great infrastructure - museum, bathrooms at the visitor center and some on the site as well, coffee shop, gelato, and a good souvenir shop. I recommend to drive up to the site and take a golf cart or a 4x4 with a local ranger or a guide rather than going with an organized tour. That way you can explore the site at your own pace and cover more ground. Not to miss."— Rachel Lyubovitzky

Visit the stunning Maraya Concert Hall, a breathtaking architectural marvel completely covered in mirrors, reflecting the incredible desert landscape of Al-Ula.

"What I can say it's just wow... The architecture is magnificent. In the dessert there's an glass building reflecting the stones and dessert. A place for professionals photographer and Instagram pictures to be updated in your profile. A place that must come and visit for at least 1 hours just for the photos. Some times they do the concert here as well"— Faris Shapian

Experience an exhilarating 1km+ zipline ride, soaring over the dramatic landscapes of Al-Ula, offering a thrilling perspective of the ancient desert.

"A great & fun experience. We enjoyed the thrilling 1km+ ride from one side of the mountain to the other! You book an hour long spot for a specific time of the day & there was not much availability 2-3 days in advance given how popular the Zip Line is so book early. Dress in warm sweater / jumper (in the winter) as with the zipline speed, it can be colder during the ride. The team was super professional & helpful & patiently dealt with more nervous participants allowing all to take their time to get ready."— Gabriela Gryger

Take a leisurely stroll along the peaceful Oasis Heritage Trail, winding through lush palm groves and ancient agricultural lands, experiencing the vibrant green heart of Al-Ula.

"This is a peaceful walk through palm groves and agricultural plantings, along paths that are attractive and well-maintained. The area used to be filled with the summer houses of the local people and there are ruins all around. I think there is a guided tour but walking the trails is also one of the few activities which you can do for free in AlUla. I parked in the Old Town parking area and walked to the start of the trail, by the road on the east side of the fort, and walked to the oasis, by the Pink Camel Bakery)."— Ian

Witness the iconic Elephant Mountain, a majestic natural rock formation resembling an elephant, especially beautiful during the golden hour of sunset.

"Visited Elephant Rock and it’s really impressive! The elephant-shaped rock is amazing, especially at sunset and when it’s lit up at night. It’s easy to reach, a great spot for photos, and perfect for relaxing in the desert. There are a few spots nearby for coffee or snacks. It can get a bit sandy and crowded during peak times"— Umer Shoaib

Discover ancient rock art and inscriptions at Al-Aqra'a, offering insights into the history and early human expression of the region. This site provides a connection to the ancient inhabitants and their spiritual beliefs.

"Stunning landscape, open library with ancient engravings of Dadan civilization. The cliff looks just like a huge wall of canvas, and it’s surreal and honored to get to visit here. I came to this place with Alula Experience in Dadan tour, and our guide was amazing explaining the stories and point out interesting carvings. I’d love to visit again and take more time here"— Nicki NB

Embark on a guided moderate hike through a spectacular hidden canyon within the Al-Gharameel area, revealing stunning rock formations and the serene, awe-inspiring beauty of the desert landscape.

"We took star gazing package and had a great time. The staff are really professional and friendly. Big shout out to Abdullah, Faisal and Maha for being the best host. Ambience so peaceful. Should try this experience at least once in a lifetime"— Shams Rosli

Take a guided tour through Al-Ula's lush oasis farms, learning about traditional agriculture, irrigation systems, and the significance of date palms to the local culture. Enjoy the tranquility and natural beauty.

"Entrance: 10 riyal per person. Parking: Free A place to seat and relax: Yes Perfect place to start your tour. But you must bring cover as open area."— J L

Visit the uniquely shaped 'Fox's Paw Rock' and explore the surrounding wadi (dry riverbed) for more striking desert landscapes and geological wonders. A perfect spot for photography and enjoying the vastness of nature.

"Visited Elephant Rock and it’s really impressive! The elephant-shaped rock is amazing, especially at sunset and when it’s lit up at night. It’s easy to reach, a great spot for photos, and perfect for relaxing in the desert. There are a few spots nearby for coffee or snacks. It can get a bit sandy and crowded during peak times"— Umer Shoaib

Begin the day with a serene visit to the stunning Rainbow Arch, a natural rock formation offering panoramic views. Take time for quiet reflection amidst the unique desert landscape and capture memorable photographs.

"Entrance: Free Parking: Free parking but you have to find your own. Area: too spacious When Old city meets the current city. The idea is amazing. As it’s crowded but i can say, I enjoyed my time walking and looking around. Yes its crowded for some area but its quite. People respect the place as you will not hear any loud voices talking but only the history music coming from every corner. You must visit this."— J L

Transfer to AlUla International Airport (ULH) for your international flight back to New York, allowing ample time for check-in and security.

"It looks pretty new, and it's pretty small as well. There are not many flights a day and the check in process was a breeze for me as there were not a lot of people and passengers at the airport. After checking in had to wait for a while for the immigration to open. Quite weird the timing shown on the screen wasn't consistent with the actual departure time. Arrivals could have just walked directly to the airport instead. And for departures there's only 2 gates. There's a cafe at the departures area but I managed to try the dunkin donuts before entering immigration. There is wifi only in the public area. I had to go to the visitor information counter to get the password. Please don't make it so inconvenient for passengers. Lost my wifi access after I entered into the transit area."— Matthew Lee