Jeddah is the commercial center of Saudi – a cultural crossroads and a vibrant hub combining heritage and modernity. With a population of about 3.5 million, Jeddah is the second largest city in Saudi and the eighth largest in the Middle East.
Visitors can travel back in time walking through the streets of the Historical AlBalad - Jeddah’s UNESCO World Heritage recognized Hijazi style old town, or enjoy the modern landmarks of the city, strolling down the waterfront corniche and taking time to admire the world’s tallest fountain of its kind.
Jeddah is also the principal gateway to Makkah, the holiest city in Islam, located just 65km to the East; while Madinah, the second holiest city is located 360km to the north, making it an important access point for Muslim pilgrims.
With cruise passenger facilities in place at Jeddah Islamic Port, the city is well positioned as a regional hub to welcome international visitors to come and experience Saudi by sea.
Yanbu’s history dates back at least 2,500 years, when it was a staging point on the spice and incense route from Yemen to Egypt and the Mediterranean region. The city was built around its port, where most of its people made their living.
Modern Yanbu is a major industrial city, known for its oil refineries and petrochemical plants, home to a unique cultural mix of people, with many of its 220,000 expatriate residents from around the world.
Adventure and nature-oriented travelers can experience the beauty of untouched coral reefs, teaming with colorful fish to the Iona shipwreck, known for the beautiful coral reef sightings.
With this fusion of history and modernity, along with its proximity to major cities in the country, Yanbu offers an ideal port of call on the Red Sea. Currently, it is the coastal access point of UNESCO World Heritage Site Hegra, AlUla.
Dammam is famously the location where oil was first discovered in Saudi. However, the history of the area dates back more than 2,000 years with many tombs and dwellings discovered in the area.
Over a span of a little more than half a century, the area has developed from small fishing communities into a thriving hub of industry, commerce and science; and is home to more than half a million people.
Dammam boasts endless views of the tranquil Arabian Gulf and is known for its airy waterfronts and sandy beaches. The modern city is a metropolis that thrives on its coastal location and has a growing reputation as an arts, sports and entertainment destination.
Dammam is also home to a number of historical and cultural sites including the UNESCO World Heritage Site, AlAhsa Oasis, Qara Mountain, King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra), Souqs and more.