Jidda Nightlife, Saudi Arabia

 Jeddah, Saudi Arabia - Nightlife

With alcohol strictly forbidden, nightlife in Jeddah takes on a completely different tone to that of anywhere else in the world, but is nonetheless wonderful.  There are no Western style parties and you need to know someone to be invited to a gathering where women are present, but the Saudi people are friendly and welcoming, and will make any visitor feel at home. Buy candy floss, fizzy drinks and spicy chick peas from the handcarts on the beach, and enjoy the cool breeze washing over you, or go on a night-shopping adventure in a Mall or shop on Tahlia Street.

 

Jeddah's floodlit Corniche, with its 400 open-air sculptures, is a visual treat. Springing to life after sunset prayer, families dine in the open sharing food and good conversation with family and friends.  People also enjoy sitting around here playing cards and smoking from hookahs.

Cuisine options abound - choose from Korean, Chinese, Indonesian, Lebanese, Indian, Pakistani, Turkish, Egyptian and Moroccan restaurants, and well as those serving cuisine of Saudi Arabian regions.

Try these dining experiences:

Al-Nakheel is styled like a traditional tent (with open sides to let in the sea breezes), a fantastic option if you want the true culinary and cultural experience.

Dining on a boat at Scala Restaurant in North Corniche, on the Red Sea.  It serves seafood and the specialty is Sayadeyah, a variety of local Jeddawi rice dishes.

Sindian Shawurma Restaurant is very reasonably priced, serves a great selection of shaorma cooked over charcoal and their falafel is superb.

The Fish Market at the Intercontinental Hotel serves seafood in different styles - Thai, Chinese, Arabian, all marvellously fresh, accompanied by crisp fresh salads.

Il Villagio complex houses seven elegant restaurants. The Pirarucu restaurant serves exquisite sea food, the Veranda restaurant offers alfresco dining, and Luigi serves genuine Italian.