Al Bilad Beach: Jeddah’s beach scene is somewhat different to most Western countries in that almost all the beaches are private, either run by hotels or resort companies. This is a pleasant private beach on Jeddah’s Red Sea coastline that is conveniently located from the city. Head here for a refreshing swim when the city’s summer gets too sticky. Al Shafee Mosque: this grand old mosque in the heart of the souk area features wonderfully coloured minarets and a highly detailed, carved wooden door that opens out onto the street. Gold Souk: this fascinating traditional gold market is located in the old Al Balad district of the city and makes an excellent stop even if you don’t plan to buy any gold. You’ll be able to see the trading process and the sellers weighing minute pieces of the precious metal. There are many souks in Jeddah, many of which will actually stock items you may want to buy but none are as intriguing as this one. King Fahd’s Fountain: when Saudi engineers built the first fountain in the grounds of the Al-Salam Palace between 1980 and 1983 there was just one problem. At just 120 metres it was deemed ‘not impressive enough’ by the authorities so they stripped it down and started again. The result is the present-day fountain which spouts water 300 metres into the air, making it the largest fountain in the world and a sight that must be seen by anyone who visits Jeddah. Coming down here is an intriguing experience given that in many ways the boutiques epitomize so-called Western decadence but yet are wholeheartedly embraced by the Jeddans that can afford to do so. There are also plenty of other worthwhile places here too including ‘bars’ and restaurants. | 
