You can’t very well visit another city, particularly one as vibrant and buzzing as Jeddah, and not take some souvenirs back for the other half, the kids, parents or even your work colleagues.
Friends and family aside though, you’ll probably want to get a little something, or some things, to remind you of your trip.
Not sure where to kick off your shopping spree? Don’t worry, as long as you’ve got the credit card, we’ve got the suggestions of top places to buy authentic souvenirs in Jeddah.
From old, colourful souks to modern malls, here are our top five shopping hot spots to pick up a memento to commemorate your time in the Saudi city.
Al-Balad
Literally translated as ‘the town’ Al Balad is the historic centre of the city and the huge bustling Balad marketplace includes various specialised souks within it. Look up to see 14th century architecture, look ahead to find loads of bargains – just as long as you are prepared to do a little haggling. Locals shop here for their groceries, tourists shop here to find deals on gold jewellery.
Open daily 5pm-midnight. Al Balad, Jeddah.
Corniche Commercial Center
Situated on the waterfront in the heart of Jeddah city, the Corniche Commercial Center offers 11 floors over which you can enjoy some retail therapy. You’ll find a lot of international brands, but you’ll also find some regional favourites where you can pick up some local treasures such as jewellery.
9am-11pm Sat-Thu, 2.30pm-11pm Fri. Al Balad, Jeddah (055 070 6853).
Gabel Street Souq (Qabel Trail)
Jeddah’s oldest market is also the place where you can enjoy some cheap shopping. The sights and sounds alone make for a fun experience, but you’re here for the souvenirs. You’ll find traditional spices and perfumes as well as shops selling touristy trinkets and sunglasses – anyone for an I heart Jeddah fridge magnet? There are also bargains to be had in the souk’s gold market, so long as you’re happy with a bit of haggling.
Open daily 5pm-midnight. Gabel Street, Al Balad, Jeddah.
Jeddah International Market
This is an old mall, in fact it opened back in the 1970s when it was the first shopping complex to have air conditioning. Now you’ll mainly find an extensive selection of gold, watches, clothing and electronics. But there are some cute little boutiques where you can find a little keepsake or two to take home.
Open daily 8am-midnight. Al Medina Road, Jeddah.
Souq Al Alawi
One of the largest souks in the Kingdom, Souq Al Alawi runs off Al Dahab Street and cuts into the heart of the old city and is a really buzzing destination, which makes for a fun day out – haggling is encouraged so don’t ever pay the price on the tag. Excited traders will entice you over to browse their stalls. Search properly as there are some real gems to be found from Arabian jewellery and Islamic art to traditional dress – nothing cuter than a kiddie-sized thawb. Top tip is to time your visit to the market with sunset, that way you get to enjoy the evening call to prayer.
8am-1pm and 5pm-9pm Sat-Wed. Al Balad, Jeddah.
