Jeddah Islamic Port, Commercial maritime port in Mecca Province, Saudi Arabia
Jeddah Islamic Port is a Red Sea harbour occupying about 12 square kilometres, with 62 multi-purpose berths and 11.2 kilometres of quay at depths of 7.5 to 18 metres. Its terminals handle containers, general cargo, livestock, grain, vehicles and cruise passengers, and it can take vessels of 19,800 TEUs.
Founded in 646 AD during the caliphate of Uthman ibn Affan, the port began as a landing point on the Red Sea route serving Mecca and Medina. Under King Abdulaziz and his successors it was modernised with new berths and terminals, becoming the kingdom's first port for imports and exports and the Red Sea's leading transshipment point, handling 75% of Saudi seaborne trade.
The port serves as the main gateway for millions of pilgrims arriving from different countries to fulfill their religious obligations in Mecca. This role as a spiritual entry point shapes how the port is understood by people throughout the region.
The facility is designed for large vessels and diverse cargo types with clear pathways for different kinds of goods and vehicles. Visitors should note this is an active port zone with heavy ship and vehicle traffic throughout the day.
The London Metal Exchange recognized the port in 2024 as an approved delivery location for copper and zinc commodities. This certification shows the port's growing role in global raw material trading.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 93,410 contributors worldwide.
