Flights to Jeddah

From the airport

Most international flights, including Saudia's, use Terminal 1, with taxis, ride-hailing pick-up points and car hire outside. The drive to central Jeddah takes approx. 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. The Haramain High Speed Railway has a station at the airport with services to Makkah and Madinah; tickets are sold separately by the rail operator. Pilgrims heading to Makkah by road should allow approx. 1 hour 30 minutes.

Entry and Umrah travel

British passport holders apply online for a Saudi eVisa or electronic travel authorisation before they fly, and a tourist eVisa can be used for Umrah outside the Hajj season. Umrah dates and accommodation are booked through the Nusuk platform. Pilgrims need a meningitis ACWY vaccination certificate, so check the timing with your GP before departure.

Al-Balad and the Corniche

Al-Balad, the historic district listed by UNESCO, is a maze of lanes lined with coral-stone houses and carved wooden rawasheen, the latticed balconies that kept rooms cool. Nassif House, where King Abdulaziz stayed in 1925, is open to visitors, and the old souqs sell spices, perfume and textiles. Along the seafront, the Corniche stretches for approx. 30 km, with promenades, parks and the Al-Rahma Mosque, built on stilts so it appears to float at high tide. King Fahd's Fountain sends a jet of water high above the sea and is lit at night.

Red Sea and seasons

Coral reefs lie a short boat ride from the coast, with dive and snorkel trips from marinas in the north of the city. Try saleeg, rice cooked slowly in milk and broth, and fresh fish from the market. Summers are hot and humid, often above 40°C, while November to February is milder. Saudi Arabia is three hours ahead of the UK in winter and two in summer.

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