Explore Jeddah’s vibrant Ramadan season offerings

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Jeddah’s historic district of Al-Balad comes alive during Ramadan. (SPA)
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Jeddah, during Ramadan, comes alive with vibrant bazaars offering a plethora of shopping experiences. (SPA)
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Jeddah, during Ramadan, comes alive with vibrant bazaars offering a plethora of shopping experiences. (SPA)
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Jeddah, during Ramadan, comes alive with vibrant bazaars offering a plethora of shopping experiences. (SPA)
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Jeddah, during Ramadan, comes alive with vibrant bazaars offering a plethora of shopping experiences. (SPA)
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Jeddah, during Ramadan, comes alive with vibrant bazaars offering a plethora of shopping experiences. (SPA)
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Jeddah, during Ramadan, comes alive with vibrant bazaars offering a plethora of shopping experiences. (SPA)
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Jeddah’s historic district of Al-Balad comes alive during Ramadan. (SPA)
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Jeddah’s historic district of Al-Balad comes alive during Ramadan. (SPA)
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Hayy Cinema adds a cinematic flair to the Ramadan season with its Ramadan Film Nights. (SPA)
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Updated 21 March 2024
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Explore Jeddah’s vibrant Ramadan season offerings

  • From markets and workshops to fashion and film, the historic Red Sea city is celebrating the holy month in style
  • Food enthusiasts in Jeddah can savor a variety of national dishes from the 13 regions of the Kingdom at the live cooking area

JEDDAH: Every year during Ramadan, Jeddah’s historic district of Al-Balad becomes a hub of activity, attracting both locals and tourists with its rich heritage, cultural programs, and entertainment offerings.

To celebrate the holy month in style, the Jeddah Historic Program, organized by the Ministry of Culture, has launched an array of events and experiences ranging from traditional markets to interactive workshops, live cooking demonstrations and film screenings.

The programs promise a diverse range of cultural and artistic experiences. Visitors can immerse themselves in the heritage atmosphere of the old district by participating in programs such as the “Observatory” experience, where they can observe the moon using telescopes.

Sarah Saidi, a mother visiting Al-Balad with her children, said: “The interactive workshops and storytelling sessions at the Ramadan programs kept my kids engaged and entertained. It was a fun and educational experience for the whole family.”

Food enthusiasts in Jeddah can savor a variety of national dishes from the 13 regions of the Kingdom at the live cooking area, where interactive cooking sessions bring the flavors of Saudi Arabia to life.

The “Flavors of Our Regions” live cooking program showcases the rich tapestry of Saudi cuisine, offering a culinary journey through the Kingdom’s favorite dishes. Additionally, “Sufra Al-Thuraya” will host guests throughout the month for iftar and suhoor meals.

During Ramadan, Saudis relish goat and lamb liver, in particular. Additionally, balila, a traditional snack made from hummus, enjoys widespread popularity in the Hijazi region and across Saudi Arabia.

This unique scene unfolds annually in Al-Balad, where street vendors, adorned in traditional attire, occupy designated slots for their carts. These carts are adorned with lights and traditional lanterns, drawing in customers eager to indulge in kebdah, balila, and fries.

Ahmed Ashoor, a visitor from Riyadh, said: “Jeddah’s historic district during Ramadan is truly captivating. The cultural programs and entertainment options create an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.”

He added: “As someone originally from Jeddah but now living and working in Riyadh, I can’t pass up the opportunity to visit Al-Balad during Ramadan. It’s a unique atmosphere, especially with the kebdah (liver) and balilah stalls.”

For those looking to delve deeper into the customs and traditions of Ramadan, the “Noor Exhibition” provides insights into Ramadan practices worldwide. Interactive workshops under the “Minarat Fan” initiative engage visitors in educational and creative activities, fostering a deeper connection to the heritage of the region.

The “Dakkakeen Ramadan” bazaar offers a treasure trove of traditional products for shoppers, while also providing a host of activities for children, including storytelling sessions, games, art workshops, and more. The bazaar pulsates with energy as visitors explore the array of offerings, from handicrafts to delectable treats.

Fatima Al-Nabhan, a resident of Jeddah, said: “The Ramadan season in Jeddah is a unique blend of tradition and modernity. I love exploring the bazaars and trying out different dishes from around the Kingdom.”

Finding car parking when planning to visit Al-Balad has consistently posed a challenge, often forcing visitors to resort to taxis or park their vehicles in distant areas, necessitating a lengthy walk due to the influx of crowds during the holy month.

However, designated parking spaces are available throughout the historic district this year, while shuttle golf carts will ferry visitors to various landmarks, cultural activities, and entertainment sites. These efforts underscore the program’s commitment to preserving the cultural and historical heritage of the region, while ensuring a seamless experience for visitors.

During Ramadan, Jeddah comes alive with vibrant bazaars offering a plethora of shopping experiences. Local and Gulf fashion designers showcase their Ramadan collections, featuring everything from traditional attire to accessories, and shoes, with shopping delights across the city throughout the month.

Explore bazaars such as Khatwa Bazaar at Al-Salaam Mall from March 20-30; Jebna Al-Eid at Stars Avenue from March 10 to 30; Jasmine Box at Homegrown Villa from March 7 to April 7; Fanos at Malekat Palace from March 20 to 23; and AI-Danah Exhibition at Jeddah Hilton from March 27 to 29.

At Hayy Jameel in Jeddah, Ramadan Nights offers a program of diverse activities, including workshops, film screenings, eateries, and shopping opportunities. With more than 30 participants and collaborators across 14 nights, the program caters to all ages and backgrounds, celebrating community, culture, and well-being.

The Hayy Markets feature an array of local artisanal crafts, books, organic produce, and fashion items, creating a dynamic shopping experience for visitors.

Hayy Cinema adds a cinematic flair to the Ramadan season with its Ramadan Film Nights, showcasing independent films and documentaries from the Arab region. From the Palestinian film “The Teacher” to the Saudi film “Within Sand,” the screenings offer a glimpse into diverse storytelling traditions and cinematic expressions.

Additionally, the Electronic Games Championship promises thrills and excitement for gaming enthusiasts, continuing the success of last season’s event in Jeddah.


Health campaign promotes quality care in Saudi Arabia

Updated 04 November 2024
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Health campaign promotes quality care in Saudi Arabia

RIYADH: The Ministry of Health has launched a campaign to promote health by enhancing access to and the quality and efficiency of health services and raising awareness of health risks, the Saudi Press Agency reported Monday.

The campaign “A Vibrant, Healthy Nation” introduces a modern healthcare model, offering integrated, individual-centered services aligned with Vision 2030’s goal of fostering a healthy society.

The ministry is committed to “enhancing public health, improving quality of life, and raising the Kingdom’s global healthcare standing.”

The campaign highlights the health transformation initiative’s positive impacts and informs citizens about its main features, aiming to engage all segments of society, SPA reported.

It emphasizes a shift from treating illness to prevention, involving primary care doctors and early detection programs.


Saudi environment ministry launches program to develop green tech

Updated 04 November 2024
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Saudi environment ministry launches program to develop green tech

  • Scheme seeks new ways to repurpose wastewater, looks at impact of microplastics

RIYADH: The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture has opened applications for a new program to find ways to develop sustainable technologies in Saudi Arabia.

The Sustainable Innovation Fellowship Program aims to find ways to repurpose by-products from water treatment for the benefit of the environment; develop sustainable technologies for recycling membranes used in water treatment; and explore methods to reuse treated wastewater in desert and arid regions.

Supported by the Environment Fund and the Research, Development and Innovation Authority, the fellowship program will also assess the environmental impact of microplastics in water treatment plants, sewage, and wastewater.

In line with Saudi Vision 2030, the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture is also introducing new e-services in accordance with international standards.


Industry meets creativity at Athar festival in Riyadh

Updated 04 November 2024
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Industry meets creativity at Athar festival in Riyadh

  • With workshops, discussions, and awards, the festival aims to drive growth in Saudi Arabia’s creative sectors

The second Athar Saudi Festival of Creativity will take place in Riyadh from Nov. 5 to 6.

Hosted by UAE-based Motivate Media Group and communications consultancy TRACCS, the festival will gather over 1,500 professionals and leaders from the creative marketing industry, featuring 100 regional and international speakers.

Ian Fairservice, managing partner and group editor in chief of Motivate Media Group, will chair the event, alongside Vice Chairman Mohammed Al-Ayed, CEO of TRACCS.

Pre-festival activities began on Nov. 3 with the Young Talent Academies, including the Student Creative Academy (in partnership with the Middle East Communications Network), the Student Marketers Academy, the NextGen Creative Academy, and the NextGen Marketers Academy.

These academies, featuring keynote sessions from industry experts, workshops, and a 24-hour hackathon, are open to full-time university students aged 18 to 25 and professionals under 30 in creative communications, marketing, or advertising.

The festival will continue on Tuesday and Wednesday with panel discussions, presentations, and fireside chats focused on redefining and growing the creative landscape in Saudi Arabia, the Middle East, and beyond, covering various sectors such as sports, entertainment, and tourism.

The event will conclude with the Athar Awards ceremony on the evening of Nov. 6.

Notable speakers include Sir Martin Sorrell, founder and executive chairman of S4 Capital PLC; Matt McKie, director of marketing for Manchester United; Waseem Kashan, executive director of marketing at ROSHN Group; Yahya Hamidaddin, vice president of corporate communications at ACWA Power; and Houda Tohme, CEO of Havas Media Middle East.

Sessions and keynotes will explore themes such as purpose-driven marketing, brand growth strategies, artificial intelligence, technology, cross-sector innovation, and unlocking creative potential.


Saudi Arabia and Iraq sign MoU on military cooperation

Updated 04 November 2024
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Saudi Arabia and Iraq sign MoU on military cooperation

  • Two defense ministers reviewed longstanding relations between their countries, focusing on ways to enhance defense ties

RIYADH: Saudi Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman and his Iraqi counterpart Thabet Al-Abbasi signed a memorandum of understanding on Monday aimed at strengthening cooperation in the military field.

The agreement, signed during a high-level meeting in Riyadh, represents a significant step forward in defense collaboration between the Kingdom and Iraq, Saudi Press Agency reported.

During their discussions, the two ministers reviewed the longstanding relations between their countries, focusing on ways to enhance defense ties.

They emphasized the importance of continued cooperation to foster regional security and stability, particularly amid ongoing regional tensions.

Both ministers discussed recent developments and shared efforts aimed at de-escalating conflicts, prioritizing actions that support peace and security in the region.

The MoU establishes a framework for increased collaboration on military matters, allowing Saudi Arabia and Iraq to address shared security challenges more effectively and pursue mutual goals in defense, SPA added. 


Saudi Islamic affairs minister receives Chinese envoy

Updated 04 November 2024
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Saudi Islamic affairs minister receives Chinese envoy

Saudi Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance Dr. Abdullatif Al-Asheikh received Chinese Ambassador to the Kingdom Chang Hua in Riyadh on Monday.

During the meeting, they exchanged cordial talks and discussed issues of common interest, particularly those related to Islamic work and promoting moderation and peaceful coexistence, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Riyadh Gov. Prince Faisal bin Bandar received Ambassador of Iran to the Kingdom Alireza Enayati in Riyadh on Monday. They discussed bilateral relations and other topics of common interest.