Jeddah Heritage Festival celebrates the city’s history and culture

Taking place this December, it brings together the best in art, food and theatre. 

There are plenty of reasons to visit Saudi Arabia’s Jeddah, from its buzzing art scene to its UNESCO World Heritage Site. Now there’s one more reason to add the city to your travel list, as the Ministry of Culture have announced the Jeddah Heritage Festival, which runs from 2 to 18 December.

The festival aims to showcase the heritage, history and culture of Jeddah. So, this is your chance to learn about the city’s unique story, starting from the pre-Islamic period up until the present day.

Jeddah Heritage Festival will take over the city. Step back in time at a market, as vendors wear traditional dresses and sell traditional, hand-crafted items ranging from pottery to sculptures.

The historical adventure continues at museums and galleries. For example, the Visual Arts Gallery showcases films, photography and models of ancient places. Plus, guests will have the rare opportunity to take a virtual tour of historically significant places including Nasseef House, the Grand Mosque of Makkah, and the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah.

Jeddah Heritage Festival has different zones offering different experiences. Architecture and Design bring to life the old buildings of Jeddah including the streets, buildings and cafés. Fashion Through Ages hosts exhibitions of local costumes and materials. Plus, Arts Square stages ancient folk dances.

Lookout for comedy shows, cafés serving traditional drinks such as almond coffee, sahlab and sobia, and a dedicated children’s zone with games.

Jeddah Heritage Festival is one of many festivals coming to the port city. Jeddah is also hosting its first-ever MDLBeast Balad Beast, which runs from 9 to 10 December. Bringing local and international artists to the city’s Old Town, it looks set to be a musical extravaganza. 

Jeddah, you are spoiling us. 

GO: Visit www.visitsaudi.com for more information.