Historic Jeddah has received more than 2 million visitors during the first half of Ramadan 2026, reflecting continued public interest in the district’s cultural and heritage offerings during the holy month.
The UNESCO-listed area, also known as Al-Balad, has seen steady activity across its historic alleys and public squares as residents and visitors participate in Ramadan programmes and cultural events. Visitors have been exploring heritage sites and traditional marketplaces including Souq Al Alawi, Bab Makkah Souq and Al-Balad markets.
The district has hosted a range of Ramadan experiences combining heritage, social traditions and cultural activities. Cultural venues, traditional markets and historic neighbourhoods have attracted visitors interested in local architecture, crafts and storytelling traditions associated with the Hijazi heritage.
Among the cultural programmes organised this Ramadan is the Riwaq Al-Kutub book event, which brought together more than 30 publishers from Saudi Arabia, the Gulf and other Arab countries, offering a platform for readers and publishers within the historic district.
Ramadan activities have also included craft exhibitions, heritage workshops, and interactive programmes designed for families and children. Communal iftar and suhoor settings have been organised in historic squares, while streets have been decorated to mark the season.
Organisers have introduced designated visitor routes and provided logistical support to facilitate movement within the area. Guides have also been deployed to share information about the district’s history, architecture and cultural significance.
These activities form part of the Ministry of Culture’s efforts to support the preservation and activation of Historic Jeddah as a cultural destination and to encourage cultural tourism. The initiatives also align with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals to promote historic sites and integrate them into the national cultural landscape.
