Al-Balad, Jeddah, Historic district and World Heritage Site in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Al-Balad features traditional Hijazi architecture with coral-stone buildings, wooden Roshan windows, and narrow winding streets that showcase centuries of Islamic urban design and Red Sea coastal construction techniques.
Founded over 1,000 years ago, Al-Balad served as a crucial port and trading hub connecting Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, facilitating commerce and serving as a gateway for pilgrims traveling to Mecca.
The district functions as a cultural melting pot where traditional souks sell spices, textiles, and handcrafted goods, while hosting festivals and art exhibitions that celebrate the region's rich heritage and artistic traditions.
Visitors can explore Al-Balad on foot through guided tours or self-guided walks, with access via central city roads and nearby parking facilities, though some restoration sites may require special permits.
Some historic coral houses in Al-Balad reach heights of over 30 meters, demonstrating advanced ancient construction techniques that utilized local Red Sea coral and traditional mud brick reinforcement methods.
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