In the heart of Jeddah, the Bride of the Red Sea, Historic Jeddah, known as "Al-Balad," shines as a living testament to the richness of the past and the aspirations of the future. Where ancient wooden balconies embrace the narrow alleyways that preserve the memory of the place, tour guides recount the story of an extraordinary transformation the area has undergone. This transformation is the fruit of the area's rehabilitation project, launched as part of the Kingdom's Vision 2030. As the anniversary of the pledge of allegiance to His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, approaches, experts affirm that what the area is witnessing today represents an inspiring model of the Kingdom's approach to preserving its cultural heritage and transforming it into a cultural, touristic, and economic force.
Deep Roots: The Strategic Importance of Historic Jeddah Through the Ages
This region was not merely an ordinary geographical location; since the dawn of Islamic history, it has served as the main gateway for pilgrims arriving by sea to the Holy Land. Historically, it emerged as a pivotal trading hub connecting the continents of the Old World, traversed by trade caravans laden with spices and goods from India and East Asia before being re-exported to Mediterranean ports. This cultural and commercial fusion produced a unique Hijazi architectural style, characterized by its use of hewn stone and decorative wood, which led to its inscription on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2014, an international recognition of its profound human and cultural value.
A cultural project reflecting the depth of Saudi history
Engineering consultant and tour guide Talal bin Abdullah Samarqandi explains that the project to preserve the area is one of the most prominent cultural projects launched during the reign of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz, and his Crown Prince. He emphasizes that the project embodies a deep commitment to Saudi history and a belief in the importance of preserving cultural heritage for future generations. Samarqandi adds that the revitalization program, overseen by the Ministry of Culture, is not limited to restoring old buildings, but rather reshapes the urban and cultural landscape, transforming the area from a collection of historic neighborhoods into a global platform for cultural exchange and a sustainable tourist destination.
A vast area that embraces heritage and creates a promising economic impact
The area covers approximately 2.4 million square meters and includes some 650 heritage buildings, five historic souks, 36 historical mosques (some dating back to the early Islamic era), and 16 charitable endowments. This architectural and cultural diversity has made Al-Balad the vibrant heart of Jeddah. It is estimated that by 2030, the project will achieve significant economic and tourism results, including attracting around 15 million visits annually, contributing over 43 billion riyals to the GDP, creating approximately 40,000 jobs, and developing vast commercial and hotel spaces that will boost the local economy and support the community.
Regional and international dimensions: A tourist destination that enhances the Kingdom's standing
For his part, tour guide Mohammed Qari Bukhari explains that "Al-Balad" represents the historical heart of the city and its social and economic hub. He emphasizes that the anticipated impact of this development extends beyond local boundaries, creating a significant regional and international effect. Regionally, the area reinforces the Kingdom's position as a leading destination for cultural tourism in the Middle East, attracting lovers of heritage and the arts. Internationally, transforming these houses, some of which are over 500 years old, into museums and heritage hotels presents the world with a unique Saudi model of cultural sustainability, boosting international tourism to the Kingdom and fostering cultural exchange between peoples.
An open-air museum that combines authenticity with future aspirations
Tour guide Marwa Al-Saidi affirms that the project represents a qualitative leap in preserving the Hijazi architectural heritage, noting the amazement of visitors from around the world at the precision of the restoration work and the dedication of those in charge to highlighting authentic architectural details such as the wooden latticework windows. In the same vein, tour guide Badour Samman points out that the directives of His Royal Highness the Crown Prince focused on cultural sustainability, transforming the area into an open-air museum that thrives on visitors. Samman concludes by emphasizing the pride in possessing a world-class tourism product that rivals the most prestigious historical cities, thanks to an inspiring leadership that believes heritage is the true wealth and the window through which the Kingdom views the world.
