The Saudi Ministry of Culture continues its tireless efforts to revive national heritage and enhance the Kingdom's position on the global tourism map through the launch of the Jeddah Historic Winter Season 2026. This season offers an exceptional tourism experience targeting visitors from within the Kingdom and abroad, combining high-end entertainment with enriching knowledge, and taking advantage of the mild winter weather for which the Bride of the Red Sea is renowned at this time of year.
Historical depth and global standing
This season is more than just a fleeting event; it's a celebration of the historic district of Jeddah, whose roots stretch back centuries. Historic Jeddah, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014, is a unique example of traditional Hijazi architecture and Islamic urban planning. It has long served as the main maritime gateway for pilgrims traveling to Mecca, making it a melting pot of cultures and a global crossroads of civilization and trade throughout the ages. The season showcases the beauty of the wooden "rawashin" (latticework windows) and the buildings constructed from hewn stone, offering a visual narrative of the area's rich history.
Integrated entertainment and educational experiences
The events of the Jeddah Historic Winter Season are designed to meet the aspirations of all age groups, and include:
- Architectural and photographic tours: Trails dedicated to photography enthusiasts to document the aesthetic angles of heritage buildings, and introductory tours explaining traditional building methods and how they adapted to the environment and climate.
- Craft and Arts Platforms: Interactive spaces that bring together skilled craftspeople and visitors, allowing children and adults to learn ancient craft techniques in a simplified and fun way.
- Safe play areas: Providing gardens and dedicated spaces for children ensures a fun time for the whole family.
Landmarks that tell the stories of the homeland
The season takes visitors on a journey through prominent historical landmarks, starting with Bab Al-Bunt, which now houses the Red Sea Museum, and continuing through Beit Nassif, which witnessed pivotal moments in the history of the Kingdom's unification and hosted the founding King Abdulaziz – may God have mercy on him. The visit also includes the Tariq Abdulhakim Museum of Music, Zawya 97, and the Craftsmen's Alley, connecting the past with the present in a harmonious cultural landscape.
Economic and tourism impact
This event holds immense importance that transcends mere entertainment; it aligns perfectly with the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which aims to diversify income sources and bolster the cultural tourism sector. The season contributes to stimulating the local economy by supporting small and medium-sized enterprises in traditional markets like Al-Alawi and Al-Nada, and by attracting international tourists seeking authentic heritage experiences, thus solidifying Jeddah's position as a sustainable tourist destination regionally and internationally.
The taste of authenticity and spirituality
The experience is further enhanced by a visit to historic mosques such as Al-Shafi'i Mosque and Al-Ma'mar Mosque, which reflect the spiritual dimension of the region. The tours conclude with a taste of traditional Hijazi cuisine in the restaurants and markets surrounding Bab Makkah, where the aromas of mutabbaq, ful, and sobia (a traditional Hijazi drink) fill the air, offering visitors a complete sensory experience that reflects the renowned Hijazi hospitality and the diversity of local cuisine.
