Country | Saudi Arabia |
Population | 3751722 |
Time Zone | UTC+3 (Arabia Standard Time) |
Coordinates | 21.49012, 39.18624 |
Highest elevation | 12 m (39 ft) |
City Gallery
City Description
Jeddah, located in the Makkah Province of Saudi Arabia along the Red Sea coast, is a bustling port city and the commercial hub of the country. With a population of approximately 3,751,722 as of 2022, it is the largest city in the province, the largest in the Hejaz region, and the second-largest city in Saudi Arabia, following the capital Riyadh. Jeddah is also the ninth-largest city in the Middle East.
The city’s historical significance dates back to 647 when Caliph Uthman made Jeddah a major travel hub for Muslim pilgrims heading to the holy city of Mecca. Since then, Jeddah has served as the gateway for millions of pilgrims, initially arriving by sea and more recently by air. This role as a gateway to Mecca, located 65 kilometers to the east, and Medina, 360 kilometers to the north, underscores Jeddah’s central role in Islamic pilgrimage.
Jeddah’s economic landscape is dynamic, with a strong focus on capital investment in scientific and engineering leadership within Saudi Arabia and the broader Middle East. The city was ranked fourth in the Africa, Middle East, and ‘stan countries region in the Innovation Cities Index in 2009. The Jeddah Islamic Port, situated on the Red Sea, is the thirty-sixth largest seaport in the world and the second-largest and second-busiest seaport in the Middle East, following Dubai’s Port of Jebel Ali. This port is crucial for the city’s commercial activities and trade.
The city is also known for its modern development projects, including the Jeddah Tower, which, upon completion, is expected to be the tallest building in the world. Jeddah’s economy is diverse, encompassing finance, commerce, shipping, and technology sectors. The city is recognized as one of Saudi Arabia’s primary resort cities and was named a Beta world city by the Globalization and World Cities Study Group and Network (GaWC).
Culturally, Jeddah is distinct, with a food culture heavily influenced by its proximity to the Red Sea, making seafood a staple unlike other parts of the country. The city’s motto, “Jeddah Ghair,” translates to “Jeddah is different,” reflecting its unique identity within Saudi Arabia. Jeddah is home to numerous historical and cultural landmarks, including the historic Al-Balad district, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its traditional architecture and vibrant souks.
Jeddah’s modern infrastructure includes advanced healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and a well-developed transportation network. King Abdulaziz International Airport is one of the busiest in the region, handling a significant volume of passenger traffic, particularly during the Hajj pilgrimage season.
In summary, Jeddah is a city that seamlessly blends its rich historical legacy with modern advancements. Its strategic location, economic strength, cultural diversity, and role as a gateway to the holy cities of Mecca and Medina make it a pivotal city in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East.
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