By Mumtaz Moosa
Jeddah was not part of the big plan. It became our rescue stop, and what a beautiful surprise it turned out to be. After walking more than 20 000 steps a day in Makkah, our feet were tired and our energy was low. My teenager had fallen sick and we all needed to slow down. Jeddah became our place to breathe again.
We checked into Hyatt House and instantly felt the difference. Space, comfort, and a small kitchen made it feel like a home instead of just a hotel room. The staff treated us like honored guests, always smiling and ready to help. The free self service laundry was a gift for weary travelers. Just bring your own detergent and you are sorted.
The plan:
We arrived with zero plans and kept it that way. No strict schedules, no rushing. We avoided the marina hotels and stayed closer to everyday city life. Jeddah is full of history and transformation. Construction is everywhere as part of Vision 2030, but instead of feeling chaotic, it felt alive. Seeing the streets where locals live, with roadworks and repairs in progress, made it feel real and familiar.
Open spaces in Jeddah:
The parks in Jeddah are something special. Wide open spaces, families gathered together, and prayer mats rolled out across the grass. People sit for hours talking, eating, praying, and simply enjoying being together. It is community in motion.
Travelling within Jeddah:
Getting around requires the right tools. Bolt and Careem quickly became our best friends. Link your international card before you travel and your life becomes much easier. Many drivers speak only Arabic, so Google Translate became part of every ride. A strong eSIM is essential.
Al Balad:
Our first adventure was Al Balad, the historic heart of Jeddah. I love old style markets, hidden corners, and traditional streets. What we did not expect was to be dropped far from the action. For a moment it felt like we were in the wrong place entirely. Then a kind stranger noticed our confusion and guided us toward the busy district. We followed carefully, making dua quietly, and soon the dark streets opened into a buzzing heritage zone.
Al Balad is magical. Restored buildings tower above narrow walkways. The air carries the scent of oud and rich Arabic coffee. Every turn brings color, texture, and voices from around the world. It feels like stepping into a living museum.
Food in Jeddah:
Food became our next mission. We were exhausted and hungry and walking in circles with a tired child. We passed the same shawarma shop again and again until we laughed and went in. It turned out to be perfect, fresh, filling, and one of the few places with an English menu. Sometimes the best meals are the unplanned ones.
We wandered deeper and reached the Old Mecca Gate, once the entry point for pilgrims arriving by ship. Bab Mecca, built in 1509 by the Mamluks, stands as a powerful reminder of centuries of journeys before ours. History felt close enough to touch.
The Marina:
Next came the marina outing, guided by my husband, also known as the very confident human GPS. The driver kept double checking our destination with concern in his eyes. We kept saying yes. He dropped us near the Formula One track and pointed us toward a bridge and “civilization.” Adventure accepted.
Halfway across the bridge, a race car roared past in a blur. Five seconds of thunder and gone. It was thrilling and slightly funny at the same time.
The beachfront adventure:
Then the beachfront opened up and completely stole my heart. Families everywhere. Children laughing. Food stalls for every craving. Play areas buzzing with energy. It was built for real family life, not just tourists. Our youngest was in absolute delight.
We walked to the Floating Mosque area, closed at that hour but still stunning against the water and night sky. We kept walking with no destination, letting the night lead us.
Late that evening I noticed a woman sitting alone on the beach reading peacefully. The calm and safety of the space stood out. The atmosphere felt respectful and dignified. Even in taxis, drivers usually waited for me to greet first before speaking. There was a quiet courtesy in everyday interactions.
By the end of the night our step count hit 23 000 and we had discovered Jeddah after dark, glowing with coffee shops, restaurants, parks, and endless family activities. The city does not sleep early and it does not forget its families.
Then came the train journey to Madinah. Many people warned us not to do it. We did it anyway and it was excellent. At the airport, ask staff to direct you to the train entrance or be prepared for a very long walk. We checked in early and later realized we could have explored more first. Once inside, there is little to do except wait, snack, and people watch.
The train ride was smooth and comfortable. We unpacked our padkos and enjoyed the view. The desert rolled past in quiet beauty. It would have been a long drive by car, but by rail it felt calm and effortless. No regrets at all.
Jeddah surprised us, refreshed us, and welcomed us. It is vibrant, historic, evolving, and deeply family centered. More than a stopover, it became a highlight.
By: Mumtaz Moosa
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