JEDDAH IS DIFFERENT
The short Arabic phrase ‘Jeddah ghair‘, often used by locals simply translated means ‘Jeddah is different’. It really is, but you have to see it to understand it. Saudi Arabia’s oldest, biggest and busiest city has everything one needs – beaches, art galleries, restaurants, cafes and it is great for fashion and shopping. Here are our top three recommendations for visitors old and new alike that will show you why Jeddah is different.
1. World’s tallest fountain
Located on the west coast of Saudi Arabia, the Jeddah boasts the world’s tallest fountain. Constructed between 1980 and 1983 and was launched in 1985 and is said to jet water to a maximum height of 260 metres to 312 m above the Red Sea. The fountain was donated to the city of Jeddah by King Fahd, hence its name. The fountain is visible throughout the vicinity of Jeddah. The fountain uses saltwater taken from the Red Sea instead of freshwater. Over 500 spotlights illuminate the fountain at night. If you visit Jeddah, you cannot miss the sight and nor should you wish to. 
World’s tallest fountain in Jeddah.
2. Red Sea Mall Shopping
The Red Sea shopping mall is one of the best places to hide from the heavy heat. It is famous for its traditional decorations and paintings of historical Saudi figures as well as boutiques that sell local items and designer dresses.
3. Visit Athr Gallery
You’d be forgiven if you didn’t know that there is a thriving art scene in Jeddah. The Athr Gallery is perhaps the perfect place to visit if you must pick only one. It is one of Jeddah’s leading contemporary art spaces. It regularly hosts diverse exhibitions and is recognised as a great platform to Saudi and Arab artists.
4. Largest flag in the world
The Jeddah Flagpole was erected in 2014. It is located in King Abdullah Square in Jeddah. Standing 171 metres (561 ft) high, it is been the tallest flagpole in the world and can be seen from most corners of the city.
The flag is in the world book of Guinness.
A spectacular sight for kids and adults alike, it is a little different from what one can see anywhere in the world.
5. Open art museum
One of the most special aspects of living in Jeddah is the little known fact that the city is what’s often referred to as “open museum”. Everywhere you go and look, there is a statue in the streets and by the sea.
The Jeddah Sculpture Museum has an initiative that is an ongoing project involving the restoration of a number of sculptures along Jeddah’s Central Corniche. The initiative also often showcases the work of up and coming artists.
The development of Jeddah’s waterfront has offered new opportunities for artists to display their work, such as the above horses created by the world-renowned Syrian sculptor Rabia Al-Akhras.
Jeddah is different. That is why despite our travels around the world, we are always happy to be back. To be surrounded by the beauty of our home city, that is an integral part of our work and the Loodyana brand.
6. Don’t miss out on Nozomi
Jeddah is lucky to have many wonderful restaurants to dine in, but our favourite is Nozomi – an Award Winning Contemporary Japanese restaurant.
7. Don’t leave without stopping by Toqa
Toqa is a traditional cafe that is a favourite of ours. The simple interior hides the great atmosphere of the place and the delicious traditional drinks and sweets customers come for.
