Travel tips · Jeddah · Saudi Arabia
Jeddah travel tips: what to know before you go
The etiquette, money and practical details that make the first day easier.
Updated By the AMZBooking editorial team
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Quick answer
As the historic port for pilgrims heading to Makkah and Madinah, Jeddah has long been home to families with roots across Africa, Asia and the Arab world, and is regarded as one of the more relaxed cities in Saudi Arabia. Islam shapes the daily rhythm, with the call to prayer five times a day and Friday as the main prayer day. The weekend is Friday and Saturday.
Key facts
- Language
- Arabic and English
- Currency
- SAR
- Plugs
- Type G sockets (some Type C), 230 V, 60 Hz
- Tap water
- Tap water is desalinated, but drink bottled water, which is inexpensive and…
- Emergency
- 911 (unified emergency number); 997 ambulance
Things to know
- Greet with 'As-salamu alaykum'; between men and women, wait for the other person to offer a hand before shaking.
- Use your right hand to eat, pass items and accept coffee.
- Ask before photographing people, especially women, and avoid photographing government and security buildings.
- During Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public during daylight hours.
- Dress modestly in the souqs of Al-Balad, which remain a traditional neighbourhood.
- Avoid loud behaviour and public displays of affection.
- Book Snorkelling and diving at Obhur ahead: Book dives and boat trips with a licensed dive centre in advance.
- Eat Hijazi breakfasts and street food in Al-Balad, which cost a fraction of hotel meals.
Tipping
Tipping is not obligatory; about 10% in restaurants where no service charge is added, and small tips for porters and drivers, are appreciated.
Language
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| As-salamu alaykum | Hello (peace be upon you) |
| Shukran | Thank you |
| Kam? | How much? |
| Ma'a salama | Goodbye |
| Afwan | You're welcome / excuse me |
What to wear
Wear loose clothing covering shoulders and knees in public; light linen helps in the humidity. Foreign women need not wear an abaya, but a headscarf is needed in mosques. Modest swimwear is expected on public beaches; private beach clubs allow regular swimwear.
Practical details
- Plugs and voltage
- Type G sockets (some Type C), 230 V, 60 Hz
- Drinking water
- Tap water is desalinated, but drink bottled water, which is inexpensive and sold everywhere.
- Emergency number
- 911 (unified emergency number); 997 ambulance
- Phone and internet
- Prepaid SIM and eSIM plans from STC, Mobily and Zain are sold at the airport and malls; Wi-Fi is common in hotels and cafés.
- Time zone
- Asia/Riyadh
The main risks are heat and humidity, fast traffic and occasional strong currents on unsupervised beaches. Drink plenty of water, cross roads at signals and swim where lifeguards are present.
Entry requirements
Visa and passport rules depend on your nationality and change often. Check Saudi Arabia's official government guidance and your own government's travel advice before booking.
Plan the trip
Questions travellers ask
+Do you tip in Jeddah?
Tipping is not obligatory; about 10% in restaurants where no service charge is added, and small tips for porters and drivers, are appreciated.
+Can you drink the tap water in Jeddah?
Tap water is desalinated, but drink bottled water, which is inexpensive and sold everywhere.
+What plugs are used in Jeddah?
Type G sockets (some Type C), 230 V, 60 Hz
+What language is spoken in Jeddah?
Arabic and English.