Bustling with street vendors, the Souqs of Al Balad are reminiscent of early Arabia, when the commotion of haggling buyers would stir up the entire neighborhood and all the activities would come to a halt during prayer times throughout the day. From fabrics and jewels to spices and souvenirs, these brightly colored stores land visitors and locals the best bargains to this day. Shop for whatever strikes your eye, with stores open for business from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Tap into a massive reserve of literary treasure. The Jeddah Days of Bliss Library is stocked with works of Arabic publishers capturing the incomparable history, literary figures, social customs and architectural eloquence of Al Balad to be cherished by the future generations.