30 things to do in Jeddah during the Formula 1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix
Stay on track with the best beach clubs, cafés and concerts in Jeddah.
With the Formula 1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix 2024 racing into town, you’ll need to make a pit stop. The sports event takes place at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit, which boasts the fastest street circuit and beautiful views over The Red Sea.
Jeddah is famous for its buzzing art scene, beachside location and historical sites – UNESCO World Heritage worthy, no less. Across the city, there are plenty of places to refuel, from newly opened to well-established venues. So, whether you want cafés, culture or concerts, here are the best things to do in Jeddah during the spectacular sporting event.
Attractions
Al Balad
Al Balad is located in Old Jeddah and has been given the UNESCO World Heritage Site seal of approval. Best described as an open-air museum, it feels like you are stepping back in time. The district includes old-school sites, from Hijazi homes to traditional markets. So make your way through the narrow alleyways, and pick up spices, perfumes and trinkets along the way.
GO: Visit www.visitsaudi.com for more information.
Al Rahma Mosque
Mosques are a thing of beauty. Al Rahma Mosque in Jeddah is a gem, as it is constructed above water and appears to be floating. So much so, it has been given the nickname the Floating Mosque. Created in 1985, it includes a white façade and blue dome.
GO: Visit www.visitsaudi.com for more information.
King Fahd’s Fountain
If you’re after an Insta-worthy moment, head down to King Fahd’s Fountain. Located in The Red Sea, the fountain shoots more than 312 metres high. Come during sunset and watch the show. Plus, since it’s best viewed from Alhamra Corniche, you’ll be able to check out the café and restaurant scene here, too.
Go: Visit https://www.visitsaudi.com/ for more information.
Beach clubs
OIA Beach Resort
OIA Beach Resort may be new, but it is already popular. The beach club brings Greek island vibes to the heart of Jeddah. So, whether you want to go kayaking, sailing or splash about in the waterpark – we’re not judging. The restaurants include 21 Grams with speciality coffee and Pareya with brilliant burgers. Plus, there are apartments and villas. Note: Visitors must apply for membership.
GO: Follow @oiabeach on Instagram for more information.
Mangrove Beach
Mangrove Beach boasts an understated elegance. The family-friendly grounds include a bowling alley, football field and children’s play area. When you need a break from the kids, there is a spa, and single-sex spaces, from the pools to gyms. Plus, there are apartments, bungalows and villas. Note: Visitors must apply for membership.
GO: Follow @mangrovebeach.sa on Instagram for more information.
Silver Sands
Silver Sands has a multicultural crowd, as it’s the go-to beach club for expats. Take your pick from water activities including fishing, snorkelling and windsurfing. Plus, when you want to get away from the crowds, book yourself a visit to the stunning coral reefs. Daily passes are SAR 100 on weekdays and SAR 150 on weekends.
GO: Visit www.silversandsksa.com for more information.
Cafés
Di Lava Café
Di Lava Café has the aesthetic of a high-end restaurant, but the vibe of a cool café. Located in Al Andalus district, the venue oozes fashionable interiors, which wouldn’t look out of place in Breakfast at Tiffany’s. We spotted the brand’s gold logo, pretty plants, and emerald green walls as well as counters. The breakfast menu includes Avocado Tomato Benedict, Eggs Benedict and Omelette Steak. The all-day menu ranges from Bruschetta Funghi to Fish and Chips. The dessert menu ranges from Chocolate Brownies to Crunchy Praline. Plus, the drinks include coffees, teas and mocktail mojitos.
EL&N London
Cameras at the ready. One of the most Instagrammable cafés in the world has recently opened its first outlet in Jeddah: EL&N London. The King Abdulaziz Road branch is filled with the instantly recognisable design of pink walls, floral features and motivational neon signs. The drinks menu covers hot coffee, iced coffee, lemonade, frappe and mocktails. The food menu covers breakfast, brunch, toasties, burgers, wraps, sandwiches and desserts.
GO: Visit https://sa.elnlondon.com/pages/atelier-la-vie for more information.
Rise Café
Thanks to its dreamy aesthetic, Rise Café is the sort of place you’d want to rise and shine. We’re talking cream-coloured walls, soft pillows and, most importantly, speciality coffee. The signature drinks range from a Passionfruit Mojito to a Peach Iced Tea. The hot beverages include firm favourites, from an Americano to Espresso and cool combinations, from Peach Persimmon Tea to Pineapple Peach Tea. Plus, there are decadent desserts including Honey Cake, Lotus Cheesecake and Saffron Milk Cake.
GO: Follow @risecafe_sa on Instagram for more information.
Concerts
A$AP Rocky
A$AP Rocky, born Rakim Athelaston Mayers is a rapper, record producer, and fashion icon. He rose to fame in the early 2010s as part of the Harlem-based collective A$AP Mob. His critically acclaimed 2011 mixtape, “Live. Love. A$AP,” propelled him to mainstream recognition. His debut studio album, “Long. Live. A$AP,” was released in 2013 and debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart. Rocky’s distinct style, blending hip-hop with alternative influences, caught the attention of the music industry, and he has collaborated with Drake, Kendrick Lamar, Rihanna (with whom he is also in a relationship) and Skepta. He has released several successful albums, including “At.Long.Last.A$AP” (2015) and “Testing” (2018). His hits include Everyday, Multiply, Praise The Lord (Da Shine) and Sundress.
DJ Fisher
DJ Fisher, real name Paul Nicholas Fishe is an Australian music producer who has taken the house and techno scene by storm. Born in 1986 on the Gold Coast, Fisher’s journey began not behind the decks, but riding the waves. He and fellow surfer Leigh Sedz Sedley formed the DJ duo Cut Snake, spinning tunes while travelling the pro surfing circuit. In 2017, Fisher embarked on a solo career. His debut single, Ya Kidding, set the tone for his signature sound – infectious basslines, pulsating grooves, and a touch of Aussie swagger. The following year, the track Losing It propelled DJ Fisher into the spotlight. The track became a global phenomenon, topping charts worldwide and earning him a Grammy nomination for Best Dance Recording.
Esseily
Mahmoud El Esseily is a prominent figure in the contemporary Egyptian music scene. His passion for music blossomed at a young age, leading him to pursue his dreams while studying at the American University in Cairo. Esseily’s breakthrough came in 2004 with the release of his debut album “Meen Ana” (Who Am I), featuring the immensely popular song Rayeh Ala Fein (Where Are You Going). This success propelled him into the limelight, and he has since released several critically acclaimed albums, including “Donia Gedida” (New World) and “Tool Manty Ganby” (So Many Times Around Me). His soulful voice and captivating stage presence have earned him a loyal fanbase across the Middle East and beyond.
Nancy Ajram
Lebanese sensation Nancy Ajram adds her enchanting vocals and captivating presence to after-race concerts in Jeddah. Often referred to as the “Queen of Arab Pop,” Nancy Ajram has captivated audiences for over two decades. She began performing as a child and quickly rose to fame, releasing her debut album at the age of 15. her blend of pop with traditional Arabic elements has made her a household name across the Middle East and beyond. Hits like Aam Betaala’ Feek, Enta Eih and Ya Tabtab have topped charts and garnered numerous awards, including three World Music Awards for best-selling Middle Eastern artist.
Alicia Keys
Alicia Keys is also joining the fun at the after-race concerts in Jeddah. The singer, songwriter, and pianist was born in 1981 in New York, USA, and began playing the piano at the age of seven. She made her debut in 2001 with the album Songs in A Minor which sold over 12 million copies worldwide and earned her five Grammy Awards. Since then, Keys has released several successful albums and has become known for her soulful voice and powerful ballads such as Girl On Fire, Fallin’, If I Ain’t Got You, No One and Try Sleeping With A Broken Heart. Alicia Keys is no stranger to the Kingdom, having performed twice at Maraya Concert Hall in AlUla.
Martin Garrix
It’s time to turn up the volume because the superstar DJ, Martin Garrix will also be performing. The Dutch DJ and record producer has achieved immense popularity in the electronic dance music scene, particularly with his global hits Animals, In the Name of Love, and Scared to Be Lonely. Garrix’s accomplishments are impressive, having held the number-one spot on DJ Mag’s Top 100 DJs list for three consecutive years from 2016 to 2018. He has graced the stages of major music festivals worldwide, including Coachella, Electric Daisy Carnival and Tomorrowland. He even became the youngest artist to headline the Ultra Music Festival at the age of 17 in 2014.
Pharrell Williams
Pharrell Williams is an icon of the fashion and music world. He and his childhood friend Chad Hugo formed The Neptunes, whose innovative beats and production work revolutionised hip-hop and R&B in the early 2000s. Their signature sound can be heard on hits like Nelly’s Hot in Herre and Snoop Dogg’s Drop It Like It’s Hot. Pharrell’s solo career took flight with the release of his infectious single Happy. He is also known for the tracks Get Lucky with Daft Punk and Blurred Lines, a collaboration with Robin Thicke. In February 2023, Pharrell was appointed as Louis Vuitton’s new men’s creative director.
Culture
ATHR Gallery
If you want to brush up on the local art scene, make a beeline for ATHR Gallery. Created in 2019, the gallery is on a mission to support Saudi artists, from up-and-coming to established talent. In the past, it has showcased amazing Arab women, from Aisha Al Sowaidi to Hana Al Khalifa.
GO: Visit www.athrart.com for more information.
Hayy Jameel
Hayy Jameel may have only opened in 2021, but it is already one of the most buzzing galleries in the city. If you’re looking for things to do in Jeddah, then visit this great multipurpose arts space. Not only is it home to a 700 square metre museum, but also the country’s first-ever indie cinema.
GO: Follow @hayyjameel on Instagram for more information.
Tahreek Space
Creatives, this one’s for you. Tahreek Space has opened in Jeddah, and it is already becoming a cool hangout. Buzzing with energy, the venue includes four spaces: Mistic Restaurant, The Concept Store, Bliss Studio and The Workshop. The Workshop is where you can get your creative juices flowing. The arty space is a go-to spot to learn new skills, as it hosts classes and lectures. Budding artists can rent the space, too, as it includes fabrication machines, large worktops and presentation spaces.
GO: Visit www.tahreek.space for more information.
Hotels
Assila, a Luxury Collection Hotel
Assila, the ultimate Luxury Collection Hotel seamlessly blends heritage with art and culture. Imagine yourself in their luxurious rooms and suites adorned with impeccable Arabian interior design and floor-to-ceiling that offer views for days. Comfort? Assila has you covered like a warm, cosy duvet with 304 opulent units and 94 residential apartments, satisfying all your extravagant desires. Dive into their enchanting spa or get your game on at their numerous sporting facilities. Assila is also a culinary paradise offering modern Middle Eastern vibes at Aubergine Lounge, Latin American bites at Pampas and day-to-night dining at Twentyfour. And don’t you dare miss the Assila Rooftop Pool, a slice of paradise where you can soak up the sun and take in the cityscape.
GO: Visit www.marriott.com for more information.
Rosewood Jeddah
Welcome to one of the most romantic hotels in Saudi Arabia. Personal butler? Check. Romantic restaurant? Check. Room with a view? Check. Thanks to the Red Sea location, we are swooning over the Rosewood Jeddah. The hotel knows how to get hearts fluttering: ask them to add fresh flowers, a cake with your loved one’s name or a bottle of non-alcoholic bubbly to your room. If that wasn’t impressive enough, book a table at Al Malaki Lounge Terrace – it serves spectacular seafood, plus beluga caviar on lobster slices and king crab meat salad with gold leaf.
GO: Visit www.rosewoodhotels.com for reservations and more information.
Shangri-La Jeddah
Shangri-La Jeddah is on the Jeddah Waterfront. Translated: it’s within easy reach of restaurants, malls and the Jeddah Corniche Circuit. When a hotel oozes this much luxury, however, you won’t want to check out anytime soon. Choose from 220 guest rooms, 55 suites and 17 serviced apartments, which have city views or sea views. Then dine at chef Keith Yeap’s Shang Palace and order the Insta-worthy, brightly-coloured dim sum and the mouth-wateringly good Peking duck. The fitness centre includes a jacuzzi, steam room and sauna, whilst the spa features a hammam for men and separate treatments for women. Plus, if you’re travelling with children, you’ll be pleased to hear there’s a kids’ club.
GO: Visit www.shangri-la.com for reservations and more information.
Waldorf Astoria Jeddah – Qasr Al Sharq
You’ll feel like royalty when you arrive at Waldorf Astoria Jeddah. Not only does the name Qasr Al Sharq mean “Palace of the East”, but the rooms are so opulent with intricate carpets and shimmering chandeliers. It’s all a little Venice meets Arabia – some rooms have gold frames around TVs and others have gold-trimmed headboards. More is definitely more here, as the Qasr Suite is almost 4,500 square feet and includes an 18-person dining table. If you want a romantic restaurant, look no further than Aromi with its Venetian-inspired menu, white tablecloths, red roses and views overlooking the Red Sea.
GO: Visit www.hilton.com for reservations and more information.
Restaurants
Alieia By The Sea
Alieia By The Sea brings a touch of the Mediterranean to Jeddah. The Greek restaurant is located on Al Kurnaysh Branch Road, Ash Shati, and guests can enjoy views of the Red Sea. Alieia By The Sea has a sleek and sophisticated design. The dining room boasts bright white sofas, walls and tablecloths. The space lets in lots of light from the curved floor-to-ceiling windows and skylight windows. Alieia By The Sea prides itself on using high-quality ingredients. The menu offers a modern take on Greek classics, and has sharing dishes that are great for groups. The dishes include dips and breads, a Greek salad and seafood options.
GO: Visit www.alieia.co for more information.
Niyyali
If the sound of falafel, fatteh and fattoush gets your stomach rumbling, then you’ll be thrilled to hear about this Lebanese restaurant in Jeddah. Located in Burj Assila on Corniche Road, the indoor and outdoor seating overlooks the Red Sea and Jeddah Corniche Circuit. Plus, the menu takes comfort food favourites and transforms them for an upmarket dining experience. The colourful plates are so stylish, you’ll want to snap them before you start – we’re not judging, it’s a FACT award winner, after all.
GO: Visit www.niyyali.com for more information.
ROKA Jeddah
After successfully etching ROKA Riyadh onto the culinary map, co-founder Rainer Becker – celebrated for igniting the robatayaki trend internationally – envisions ROKA Jeddah as a gastronomic milestone in the Middle East. The robata, a feature synonymous with ROKA, is adorned with live-edge wooden counters and a mill-scale iron extraction hood. The bar features an iron bar counter with suspended shelving, creating a compelling visual play. ROKA Jeddah is primed to entice food enthusiasts with its acclaimed signature dishes from the flaming grill such as kankoku fu kohitsuji (lamb cutlets with Korean spices and sesame cucumber), the bekupoteto (baked potato with yuzu cream and chives), and the sake no taru taru (salmon tartare with den miso and yuzu).
GO: Call +966 9200 17652 for reservations and more information.
Siddharta Lounge
Across the region, Siddharta Lounge has become a byword for mingling in style, so it was only a matter of time before this award-winning concept landed in Saudi Arabia. A member of the globally acclaimed Buddha-Bar hospitality group, the new outpost in Jeddah offers a gastronomic journey that combines the artistry of Mediterranean cuisine with the universal allure of Asian fusion favourites at Assila, a Luxury Collection Hotel. Siddharta Lounge Jeddah comprises a restaurant, a lounge, and a rooftop pool complete with comfortable sun loungers, elegant dinner tables, and captivating views of the city.
GO: Follow @siddhartaloungejeddah on Instagram for more information.
Shopping
Homegrown Market Boutique
As the name suggests, this is all about supporting local brands. Created in 2014, it has a loyal following. The collection includes handcrafted items, from fashion to furniture. There are two branches: one in Rawdah and one in Hayy Jameel.
GO: Follow @homegrown_market for more information.
Hub 27.1
Hub 27.1 fuses together the traditional and modern. The products include oriental perfumes, ornate carpets, but also trendy streetwear collections. The range spans oversized statement hoodies to T-shirts, and exclusive pieces that you will only find in store.
GO: Follow @hub27sa on Instagram for more information.
Noms Life
If you want to stand out from the crowd, check out the streetwear shop, Noms Life. The brand has opened its first flagship store in Jeddah, and it’s filled with cool clothing. Located in Rubaiyat Mall, it boasts a bright, bold clothing collection. We’re talking on-trend unisex T-shirts, oversized hoodies and stylish kimonos. Plus, Nomslife X F1 is inspired by the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. The hero item is the limited-edition Jeddah Race-Track Circuit Long Sleeve Shirt, which has the race track printed on the back.
GO: Visit www.nomslife.com for more information.
