Thursday, 10 July 2025
Explore Saudi Arabia

Discover the 12 Best Shopping Malls and Must-Visit Places in Jeddah

A Retail Paradise Awaits!
Published: Saturday, March 29, 2025
Discover the 12 Best Shopping Malls and Must-Visit Places in Jeddah

Jeddah, a bustling city on Saudi Arabia's west coast, is renowned for its vibrant shopping scene. From modern malls filled with international brands to traditional souks brimming with local crafts, the city offers a diverse shopping experience that appeals to all tastes. Whether you're looking for the latest fashion, unique souvenirs, or delicious local delicacies, Jeddah is a shopper's paradise.

Al Balad Market

  • Location: Al Balad, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
  • Opening Hours: Daily from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Al Balad, a captivating area where historic homes have been transformed into vibrant art galleries and specialty cafes. As you wander through this ancient district, admire the stunning architecture featuring the iconic wooden Rawashins. Al Balad combines historical charm with modern conveniences, located just twenty minutes from top shopping centers, international restaurants, and the thrilling STC Formula 1 Saudi Grand Prix.

Al Khayyat Center

  • Location: Near AlNuwat Roundabout, Prince Mohammed bin Abdul-Aziz Street, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
  • Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM

Al Khayyat Center is a premier shopping destination located near the AlNuwat roundabout on Prince Mohammed bin Abdul-Aziz Street. Known for its collection of high-end fashion and luxury jewelry brands, it is conveniently situated just six minutes from the Ritz Carlton Hotel and seven minutes from Alhamra Cornish.

Shopping Experience

The center features two sections: one dedicated to prestigious global brands like Chanel, Gucci, and Prada, and another for jewelry enthusiasts with names such as Louis Vuitton and Dior. Footwear and handbag selections include Tod’s and Burberry.

Beauty and Wellness

For relaxation and pampering, visit the luxurious salon "Malda Al Khayyat," offering a variety of beauty services. Al Khayyat Center 2 also features renowned salons like "Jamalouki" and "Bouthaina," known for their exceptional service.

Culinary Offerings

Take a break at the cafes in Al Khayyat Center 2, which serve exquisite coffee. Notable spots include Sculpture Cafe for its French toast and flat white, and Caffeine Lab, which offers high-quality coffee beans. For a fine dining experience, consider reserving a table at Diora's for Mediterranean cuisine.

Local Boutiques

Discover unique local boutiques, including "Amani Al Habshi - Memen" for stylish Abayas and “AG Ain Ghain” for watches and sunglasses. Concept stores like Makeen enhance the shopping experience with curated selections.

Jeddah Boulevard

  • Location: Al Shati District, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
  • Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM

Jeddah Boulevard offers a luxurious blend of shopping, dining, and relaxation, all set against a backdrop of beautiful fountains—perfect for family outings.

Elegant Atmosphere

Since its opening in 2015, Jeddah Boulevard has become a bustling hub for luxury shopping and gourmet dining. This modern venue showcases a wide range of high-end brands and celebrated cafes.

Fashion Highlights

Fashion lovers will find iconic brands such as Prada, Gucci, and Balenciaga, alongside exclusive offerings from Dolce & Gabbana and Jimmy Choo.

Dining Experiences

The Boulevard is home to various international restaurants with both indoor and outdoor seating. Enjoy authentic Lebanese cuisine at Karam Beirut or indulge in Asian dishes at Novikov and Baco.

Coffee Shops

A variety of cafes throughout Jeddah Boulevard provide quality coffee and pastries. Dots Donut is especially popular for its fresh donuts and unique toppings.

Jeddah Park

  • Location: Al Shati District, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
  • Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM

Jeddah Park features an expansive design with outdoor fountains and spacious interiors, offering luxury shopping, cozy cafes, a cinema, and a diverse food court, making it ideal for families.

Shopping Variety

This destination hosts a wide array of international brands, including Tommy Hilfiger and Zara. Visitors can also explore beauty shops like L’Occitane and Inglot.

Family Entertainment

Children can enjoy attractions like “Octo City,” with live shows and interactive play. “Strike 10” offers bowling and other fun activities.

Dining Options

After shopping, dine at the acclaimed “C house Milano” or grab a quick bite from popular fast-food chains. Numerous cafes provide a cozy atmosphere, including “Paul” and “Candy Tree Cafe” for local desserts.

Cultural Experience

Visit the House of Islamic Arts, showcasing over 1,000 art pieces from various cultures, marking it as the first of its kind in Saudi Arabia.

Le Prestige Mall

  • Location: Al Shati District, King Abdul Aziz Branch Road, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
  • Opening Hours: Daily from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM

Le Prestige Mall is a luxurious shopping destination featuring stunning architecture and spacious interiors, perfect for leisurely strolls, coffee breaks, and fine dining.

Strategic Location

The mall is located in the Al Shati district along King Abdul Aziz branch road, and operates daily from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM, showcasing its elegant design with glass domes and marble floors.

Dining Diversity

Visitors can enjoy a variety of international cuisines, including Brazilian dishes at Brasa de Brasil and Italian fare at L'Antica Pizzeria Da Michele. The mall also offers tropical dining experiences at Pongo Restaurant.

Cafe Offerings

Le Prestige Mall features several cafes, including Urth Café and Esquires, which provide a comfortable atmosphere for enjoying coffee and desserts.

Retail Variety

Shoppers can explore a wide range of stores, from gourmet chocolate shops like Jeff De Bruges to local oud and perfume retailers.

Mall of Arabia

  • Location: Near King Abdulaziz International Airport, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
  • Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM

Located just ten minutes from the airport, Mall of Arabia is a vast shopping destination featuring around 408 stores that cater to both international and local tastes.

Family-Friendly Environment

Spanning approximately 261,000 square meters, Mall of Arabia offers ample parking and various entertainment options, making it a popular choice for families.

Kid's Attractions

The mall features Kidzania, an indoor play village that encourages creativity through role-playing. Other attractions include Sparkies play zone and an exciting ice rink for kids.

Dining and Relaxation

A mix of international and local restaurants and cafes are available, with Grand Concerto providing an upscale atmosphere for coffee lovers and Smit Sarai offering delicious pastries.

Cinema Experience

Enjoy the unique Movi Cinema, showcasing both Saudi and international films in a state-of-the-art environment, complete with tasty popcorn and nachos.

Extensive Shopping Choices

With brands like Coach and Michael Kors, along with sportswear and children’s clothing, Mall of Arabia offers an extensive selection for every shopper.

Red Sea Mall

Red Sea Mall stands as a vibrant hub for families and friends, embodying a lively and joyful atmosphere. Spanning 242,000 square meters, it is one of the largest shopping centers on the western coast of Saudi Arabia, conveniently located by the waterfront in Jeddah.

Location:
Al-Muhammadiyyah, Jeddah 21512, Saudi Arabia

Opening Hours:

  • Sunday to Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM
  • Thursday to Saturday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM

Shopping Experience

Step into a world of fashion with over 600 stores at Red Sea Mall, where you can find the latest styles for men and women. This vast selection includes renowned international brands like Burberry, Beverly Hills Polo Club, and Polo Ralph Lauren. Beyond apparel, explore home decor at West Elm, featuring chic furnishings and accents. Health and beauty products are available at Virgin World, along with office supplies and electronics, ensuring every need is met.

The mall also showcases luxurious fragrance boutiques such as Paris Gallery and Joe Malone, offering exclusive scents, as well as must-have perfumes from Penhaligon's. For a refreshing makeover, the Henna salon is an excellent option.

Entertainment Options

Red Sea Mall is not just about shopping; it’s a complete entertainment experience. Enjoy thrilling films at Vox Cinema, featuring 3D IMAX technology for an immersive viewing experience. With a wide range of snacks available, from sweet and salty popcorn to fast food, your movie night is sure to be enjoyable.

Events and Activities

The event hall at Red Sea Mall is a vibrant venue for various activities and celebrations. From national events to corporate gatherings, the lively ambiance ensures that every visit is unforgettable, filled with excitement and engagement.

Dining Selection

With over 80 restaurants and cafes, dining options abound at Red Sea Mall. Whether you're craving Chinese, Japanese, or delicious Italian pizza, there’s something for everyone. Coffee lovers will find a plethora of premium options, while the delightful aromas from Paul’s French café evoke the charm of Paris. Indulge in Godiva chocolates for a sweet finish to your meal.

Luxurious Accommodation

Adjacent to the mall is Elaf Red Sea, a boutique hotel that combines elegance with convenience. This hotel offers easy access to the Jeddah Waterfront, the airport, and the city center, making it an ideal choice for business and leisure travelers. With a focus on privacy and luxury, Elaf Red Sea is ISO 9001 certified, ensuring top-notch hospitality.

Family-Friendly Fun

Families can enjoy a variety of activities, from bowling and pool at the In10SO center—Saudi Arabia’s premier indoor karting venue—to thrilling virtual reality experiences at the Tech Zone. Kids can explore dedicated play areas like Sparkies and Adventura Arena, designed for ages one to eight, ensuring endless entertainment.


Souq Al Alawi

Dating back to 1716, Souq Al Alawi is one of the oldest and most vibrant markets in Historic Jeddah. Once a vital stop for pilgrims traveling to Makkah, this bustling open-air bazaar is filled with activity. Visitors can discover a variety of authentic Arabian jewelry, incense, traditional attire, spices, herbs, and remedies, making it a quintessential part of Jeddah's cultural landscape.

Location:
Historic Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Opening Hours:

  • Saturday to Thursday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
  • Friday: Closed

Souq Al Badu

Just steps away from Bab Makkah, Souq Al Badu is an open-air market rich in tradition. The inviting scent of incense fills the air, and this souq has gained fame for its exquisite women’s clothing, fabrics, scarves, and traditional handicrafts.

Location:
Near Bab Makkah, Historic Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Operating Hours:

  • Saturday to Thursday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
  • Friday: Closed

Souq Al Jamei

Located near Al Shafi'i Mosque, Souq Al Jamei is a symbol of community and tradition. Particularly lively during Ramadan, it offers a unique assortment of fabrics, women’s clothing, and accessories. Its close proximity to Souq Al Badu makes it a bustling meeting point for traders and visitors, fostering a vibrant exchange of goods and stories.

Location:
Near Al Shafi'i Mosque, Historic Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Opening Hours:

  • Saturday to Thursday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
  • Friday: Closed

Souq Al Nada

Souq Al Nada has long been a center for maritime trade and is celebrated in Arabic literature for its appeal. Today, the lively lanes are filled with shops offering local delicacies and custom tailoring, emphasizing its role as a vibrant symbol of Historic Jeddah's cultural and commercial heritage.

Location:
Historic Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Opening Hours:

  • Saturday to Thursday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
  • Friday: Closed

Souq Qabil

One of Jeddah’s oldest business districts, Souq Qabil dates back to the early 20th century. Known for its gold and currency exchange shops, it continues to thrive with traditional goods. Historic buildings constructed from coral stone stand as a testament to the district's rich cultural heritage.

Location:
Historic Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Opening Hours:

  • Saturday to Thursday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
  • Friday: Closed

In summary, Jeddah provides an exciting shopping landscape that combines contemporary retail with rich cultural heritage. With its variety of shopping venues, the city ensures an enjoyable experience for every visitor, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the best of Saudi Arabian commerce and culture.

Explore Turkey

Free Istanbul Tour for Transit Passengers with Turkish Airlines

Transit travelers can now explore Istanbul’s top landmarks for free with Turkish Airlines’ guided half-day city tour from the airport.
Published: Sunday, July 06, 2025
Free Istanbul Tour for Transit Passengers with Turkish Airlines

Turkish Airlines has expanded its complimentary “Touristanbul” program, offering international transit passengers with layovers of 6 to 24 hours at Istanbul Airport (IST) a unique opportunity to explore the city’s rich history and culture without leaving the airport experience behind.

Eligible travelers can choose from six different daily tours, each led by professional guides and including transportation by shuttle bus directly from the airport.

One of the highlights of the program is a visit to Bozdağ Film Studios in Beykoz, a sprawling 200-acre complex renowned for producing popular Turkish historical TV dramas like "Diriliş: Ertuğrul" and "Kuruluş: Osman."

This studio is the largest in Europe and the third-largest in the world, offering visitors a behind-the-scenes look at life-sized sets that recreate different eras of Turkish history.

Beyond the film studio, the various tour routes cover Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Blue Mosque, Dolmabahçe Palace, Hippodrome, Taksim Square, Grand Bazaar, and the Galata Bridge, with photo stops and guided commentary throughout.

Passengers can also enjoy authentic Turkish cuisine—such as fire-cooked soup and hand-pounded rice pudding—at local restaurants, and participate in cultural workshops like glassmaking and archery.

All meals, museum entrance fees, and transportation are included at no cost, and the tours are available every day of the year, with 19 different routes offered weekly. To participate, passengers must have a Turkish Airlines ticket with a layover of 6 to 24 hours, and must register at the Touristanbul desk at least 30 minutes before the tour begins.

The program is designed to ensure travelers return to the airport with ample time for their connecting flights, transforming what could be idle hours into a memorable cultural experience.

Etihad Guest Raises Challenge Prizes to Over 20 Million Miles Due to High Demand

Published: Saturday, July 05, 2025
Etihad Guest Raises Challenge Prizes to Over 20 Million Miles Due to High Demand

Etihad Guest, the loyalty program of Etihad Airways, has expanded its highly popular competition, The Extraordinary Challenge, by increasing the total prize pool to over 20 million Etihad Guest Miles following an unprecedented surge in participation.

Initially, the challenge offered 5 million miles to the first member to visit all 15 of Etihad’s newly launched destinations, with second and third place receiving 3 million and 1 million miles, respectively. However, due to overwhelming demand, Etihad has now added 12.5 million additional miles, opening the door for more than 200 winners in total.

The competition, which runs until May 25, 2026, is open to both new and existing Etihad Guest members. Participants must travel to or from 15 specific new year-round destinations, including cities such as Addis Ababa, Atlanta, Prague, and Taipei, within a 12-month period. The race is based on speed and dedication—the fastest members to complete all 15 routes win the largest prizes, while tie-breakers are resolved by the earliest registration date.

In addition to the top three grand prizes, Etihad has introduced "The Extraordinary Milestones" category: the first 100 members to visit five new destinations will receive 25,000 miles each, and the first 100 to reach ten destinations will earn 100,000 miles each. This expansion aims to reward both the most ambitious travelers and those making significant progress, with members able to track their journeys and standings on a live digital leaderboard.

Mark Potter, Managing Director of Etihad Guest, commented, “We’ve seen an amazing response across the globe since we launched The Extraordinary Challenge, and expect to see over 50,000 member sign-ups as more destinations come online. Having seen the desire and determination of so many, we wanted to reward Etihad Guest members even more by giving flight to their ambition with more prize miles and potential for 200 additional winners”.

Sohar Banks and SalamAir Team Up to Give Cardholders Up to 40% Off on Domestic Flights

Published: Saturday, July 05, 2025
Sohar Banks and SalamAir Team Up to Give Cardholders Up to 40% Off on Domestic Flights

Sohar International and its Islamic banking division, Sohar Islamic, have announced a new partnership with SalamAir, Oman’s prominent budget airline, to bring substantial savings to their customers on domestic travel. Under this collaboration, credit cardholders from Sohar International and Sohar Islamic can enjoy up to 40% off, while debit cardholders receive a 15% discount on SalamAir flights within Oman.

The offer covers popular routes such as Muscat to Salalah, Masirah, Duqm, and the newly introduced Sohar to Salalah flights, with bookings available from June 22 to August 31, 2025, for travel between July 1 and August 31, 2025.

To take advantage of these discounts, eligible customers must book their tickets through SalamAir’s official website, applying special promo codes provided by the banks and using their Sohar cards for payment. The partnership was officially launched at a signing event on June 17, 2025, at Sohar International’s headquarters, highlighting a shared vision to blend financial services with lifestyle benefits and support Oman’s national tourism strategy outlined in Vision 2040.

Bank officials, including Abdul Qadir Al Sumali, stressed that the initiative is designed to go beyond simple discounts, aiming to create a more integrated experience for customers by connecting banking with travel. Steven Allen, SalamAir’s Chief Commercial Officer, noted that the airline is committed to making domestic travel more affordable, especially during the busy Khareef season in Salalah.

SalamAir, which operates a growing fleet of Airbus aircraft and serves over 80 flights daily, is also investing in digital upgrades, such as a new WhatsApp ticketing service. The airline has introduced fixed fares for Omani nationals on key routes to further support local travelers.

This partnership not only delivers significant value to Sohar International and Sohar Islamic customers but also contributes to the wider goals of enhancing domestic tourism and strengthening collaboration between Oman’s banking and aviation sectors.

Air Arabia Mega Sale: Fares from Dh149 for Bookings June 30 to July 6

Published: Thursday, July 03, 2025
Air Arabia Mega Sale: Fares from Dh149 for Bookings June 30 to July 6

Air Arabia has launched a major summer mega sale, offering one-way fares starting from just Dh149 for select destinations across its network. The promotion is available for bookings made between June 30 and July 6, 2025, with travel permitted from July 14 to September 30, 2025—a period that covers the busy summer holiday season and is ideal for families and travelers looking for affordable getaways.

The discounted fares apply to a wide variety of routes from Sharjah and Abu Dhabi. Travelers departing from Sharjah can fly to Bahrain and Muscat for as low as Dh149, while fares to Dammam, Riyadh, Salalah, and Kuwait start at Dh199. Routes to Abha, Tabuk, and Yanbu are available from Dh298, Doha from Dh399, Jeddah and Medinah from Dh449, and Taif from Dh574.

For those heading to South Asia, Abu Dhabi to Chennai fares start at Dh275, Kochi at Dh315, Dhaka at Dh499, and Chattogram at Dh549. From Sharjah, travelers can book flights to Ahmedabad from Dh299, Delhi from Dh317, Mumbai from Dh323, Thiruvananthapuram from Dh325, and Kathmandu from Dh449. These special rates are especially appealing for the large South Asian expatriate community in the UAE.

Air Arabia’s summer sale comes as the airline reports strong financial growth, with a net profit of Dh355 million in the first quarter of 2025—a 34 percent increase year-on-year. The airline also saw a 14 percent rise in turnover to Dh1.75 billion and carried more than 4.9 million passengers in the first three months of the year, achieving an average seat load factor of 84 percent.

The airline is also expanding its network, with the resumption of direct flights between Sharjah and Damascus starting July 10, 2025, operating twice daily. All fares in the promotion are one-way and include surcharges, but airport taxes may not be included and are subject to change. Seats are limited and are expected to sell out quickly, so travelers are encouraged to book early to secure the best deals.

For passengers needing flexibility, Air Arabia allows modifications or cancellations of bookings online, via its call center, or at sales offices, though fare differences and terms may apply

Dubai to Manila Flights for Dh3 in Cebu Pacific Independence Day Sale

Published: Thursday, June 12, 2025
Dubai to Manila Flights for Dh3 in Cebu Pacific Independence Day Sale

Cebu Pacific, the Philippines’ largest low-cost airline, has announced a special seat sale in honor of the country’s 127th Independence Day, offering one-way base fares from Dubai to Manila for just Dh3. The promotion, part of the airline’s annual Super Seat Fest, is available for bookings made between June 11 and June 15, 2025. The travel period for these discounted tickets spans from December 1, 2025, to May 31, 2026, making it ideal for those planning year-end holidays or summer visits to the Philippines.

The Dh3 fare covers only the base ticket price, with additional charges for taxes and surcharges. Cebu Pacific’s extensive network allows travelers to connect from Manila to 37 domestic and 26 international destinations, including popular tourist spots like Boracay, the Banaue Rice Terraces, Vigan, and Davao’s Seven Falls. The airline encourages passengers to explore the Philippines’ rich historical and cultural sites, such as Intramuros and the National Museum complex in Manila.

Booking is available through Cebu Pacific’s official website, with multiple payment options including credit cards, debit cards, and e-wallets. The airline also offers special guidelines for families traveling with infants or minors: infants under two years old may travel on an adult’s lap for an infant fee, and strollers or car seats can be brought free of charge. Children aged 12 and above are considered adult guests, and minors traveling with parents only need to present documents proving their relationship, such as a birth certificate or valid IDs.

Seats at the promotional rate are limited and subject to availability, so travelers are encouraged to book early. Cebu Pacific’s Super Seat Fest is a recurring event, celebrated alongside major milestones and holidays, and continues to be popular among Filipinos abroad looking for affordable ways to reunite with family or explore the country’s diverse attractions.