This is the second largest city in Saudi Arabia, with a port often visited by ships passing through the Red Sea. It has a vibrant waterfront, UNESCO sites, a burgeoning arts scene, rich cultural heritage, white sandy beaches, scuba diving opportunities and serves as a gateway for those planning a pilgrimage to the Islamic holy cities of Medina and Mecca. While the country has conservative values (modest dress is a must), Jeddah is friendly and welcoming to tourists, with many fascinating sites, like the Floating Museum, geared to visitors. Here are some of its finest hotels.
The Jeddah EDITION
The Jeddah EDITION, situated on the scenic Jeddah Corniche, elegantly blends into the city’s cultural scene with its yacht-like architecture near the Jeddah Art Promenade and the historic Al-Balad, a UNESCO Heritage site. A result of a partnership between Marriott International, EDITION Hotels, and designed by Yabu Pushelberg, the hotel features 52 rooms and 11 suites, including luxurious Penthouses with panoramic views. It offers a unique experience with its art-filled lobby, tranquil spa, and signature restaurant, Maritime, led by chef Cédric Vongerichten, which serves French-Asian cuisine tailored to local tastes. Additionally, the hotel is a vibrant social hub with spaces like The Roof and The Den, catering to both relaxation and social gatherings, reflecting Jeddah’s motto, “Jeddah Ghair,” celebrating a fusion of tradition and modernity.
Assila, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Jeddah
Experience the famed Arabian hospitality, with a stay at Assila. Home to more than 2000 artworks, the Luxury Collection Hotel showcases national artistry, along with Middle Eastern Cuisine served al fresco at Aubergine. You’ll also be able to partake of American or continental breakfasts, alongside local delicacies on the morning buffet and Argentine dishes at the Pampas Grill restaurant. Guests can swim in the rooftop pool, book treatments at Assila Spa and get a haircut at the in-house barbershop. Bedrooms and suites have a contemporary style with a neutral palette and marble bathrooms. Book one on a high floor for the best views.
The Ritz-Carlton Jeddah
Once a palace, this five-star premier resort is now home to Jeddah’s largest convention space, attracting a host of international business guests. A huge fountain stands at the front of the grand and intricate building, found overlooking the water in the District Southern Corniche. Inside are 224 classically styled bedrooms and suites with pillow tops and iPod docks, arranged over its 18 floors of opulence. Antique furnishings, chandeliers and highly polished surfaces throughout create a sense of heritage and glamour, maintaining the Ritz-Carlton image, while incorporating Saudi influences. The hotel has a gentlemen’s spa, two restaurants, a tea lounge, an outdoor cocktail and a hookah bar.
Shangri-La Jeddah
Occupying a prime stretch of waterfront, the Shangri-La rises high into the skyline, accommodated within floors nine to 26 of the 64-storey Burj Assila tower. From here you can walk to restaurants, cafes and shops, including the Red Sea Mall, which is reachable in around 10 minutes on foot. 220 bedrooms include 55 suites and 17 are serviced apartments with floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing the views. Up-to-date, neutral decor is accented by bold modern art pieces. The seventh floor houses the male and female wellness areas and the Technogym, and provides access to the outdoor pool, with a terrace surrounded by glass balustrades.
Waldorf Astoria Jeddah – Qasr Al Sharq
Step into the lobby of the Waldorf Astoria and your eyes will be met by an incredible Swarovski crystal chandelier, hung over three storeys of the hotel. The property was built in 2006, with all of the brand’s designer sensibilities and a regal Arabian style. Its 46 suites are magnificent (especially the Royal ones), with high-end Italian linens and personalised butler service. And there are two places to eat onsite; the Mediterranean meets Venetian Aromi Restaurant and the Asian-inspired, palatial Mataam Al Shar. The hotel’s ladies’ spa boasts a unique aqua medic massage pool.
Park Hyatt Jeddah – Marina, Club And Spa
Stay here for direct access to the marina’s amenities (you can watch the boats pass by from your balcony) and some thalassotherapy to boost your well-being. There’s a choice of three restaurants and four swimming pools; two indoor and two outdoor pools with loungers and parasols. And you can take advantage of the limo service into town (many attractions are within 20 minutes). 142 bedrooms are decorated in monochrome colours, with bold and colourful accent headboards, for a funky, fashionable feel. Hypo-allergenic bedding, Egyptian cotton sheets and Select Comfort beds are provided to ensure a sound night’s sleep.
Rosewood Jeddah Hotel
Sit in a jacuzzi beside the rooftop swimming pool, as you gaze out to the Red Sea, at the Rosewood. Located in the Al Shatie District, the hotel caters well for families, providing younger guests with the Explorer programme of special services, Rose Buds amenities, kids’ menus, special events and fun activities. 127 bedrooms benefit from TVs in the bathrooms as well as bedroom area, touch screen controls, espresso coffee machines and butler service around the clock. Enjoy a romantic meal outside on a boat-stern deck, or dine in the Arabian-style Habsburg, or Venetian-style Soleil restaurants.