Jeddah, a bustling city on Saudi Arabia's west coast, is renowned for its vibrant shopping scene. From modern malls filled with international brands to traditional souks brimming with local crafts, the city offers a diverse shopping experience that appeals to all tastes. Whether you're looking for the latest fashion, unique souvenirs, or delicious local delicacies, Jeddah is a shopper's paradise.

Al Balad Market

• Location: Al Balad, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
• Opening Hours: Daily from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Al Balad, a captivating area where historic homes have been transformed into vibrant art galleries and specialty cafes. As you wander through this ancient district, admire the stunning architecture featuring the iconic wooden Rawashins. Al Balad combines historical charm with modern conveniences, located just twenty minutes from top shopping centers, international restaurants, and the thrilling STC Formula 1 Saudi Grand Prix.

Al Khayyat Center

• Location: Near AlNuwat Roundabout, Prince Mohammed bin Abdul-Aziz Street, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
• Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM

Al Khayyat Center is a premier shopping destination located near the AlNuwat roundabout on Prince Mohammed bin Abdul-Aziz Street. Known for its collection of high-end fashion and luxury jewelry brands, it is conveniently situated just six minutes from the Ritz Carlton Hotel and seven minutes from Alhamra Cornish.

Shopping Experience

The center features two sections: one dedicated to prestigious global brands like Chanel, Gucci, and Prada, and another for jewelry enthusiasts with names such as Louis Vuitton and Dior. Footwear and handbag selections include Tod’s and Burberry.

Beauty and Wellness

For relaxation and pampering, visit the luxurious salon "Malda Al Khayyat," offering a variety of beauty services. Al Khayyat Center 2 also features renowned salons like "Jamalouki" and "Bouthaina," known for their exceptional service.

Culinary Offerings

Take a break at the cafes in Al Khayyat Center 2, which serve exquisite coffee. Notable spots include Sculpture Cafe for its French toast and flat white, and Caffeine Lab, which offers high-quality coffee beans. For a fine dining experience, consider reserving a table at Diora's for Mediterranean cuisine.

Local Boutiques

Discover unique local boutiques, including "Amani Al Habshi - Memen" for stylish Abayas and “AG Ain Ghain” for watches and sunglasses. Concept stores like Makeen enhance the shopping experience with curated selections.

Jeddah Boulevard

• Location: Al Shati District, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
• Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM

Jeddah Boulevard offers a luxurious blend of shopping, dining, and relaxation, all set against a backdrop of beautiful fountains—perfect for family outings.

Elegant Atmosphere

Since its opening in 2015, Jeddah Boulevard has become a bustling hub for luxury shopping and gourmet dining. This modern venue showcases a wide range of high-end brands and celebrated cafes.

Fashion Highlights

Fashion lovers will find iconic brands such as Prada, Gucci, and Balenciaga, alongside exclusive offerings from Dolce & Gabbana and Jimmy Choo.

Dining Experiences

The Boulevard is home to various international restaurants with both indoor and outdoor seating. Enjoy authentic Lebanese cuisine at Karam Beirut or indulge in Asian dishes at Novikov and Baco.

Coffee Shops

A variety of cafes throughout Jeddah Boulevard provide quality coffee and pastries. Dots Donut is especially popular for its fresh donuts and unique toppings.

Jeddah Park

• Location: Al Shati District, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
• Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM

Jeddah Park features an expansive design with outdoor fountains and spacious interiors, offering luxury shopping, cozy cafes, a cinema, and a diverse food court, making it ideal for families.

Shopping Variety

This destination hosts a wide array of international brands, including Tommy Hilfiger and Zara. Visitors can also explore beauty shops like L’Occitane and Inglot.

Family Entertainment

Children can enjoy attractions like “Octo City,” with live shows and interactive play. “Strike 10” offers bowling and other fun activities.

Dining Options

After shopping, dine at the acclaimed “C house Milano” or grab a quick bite from popular fast-food chains. Numerous cafes provide a cozy atmosphere, including “Paul” and “Candy Tree Cafe” for local desserts.

Cultural Experience

Visit the House of Islamic Arts, showcasing over 1,000 art pieces from various cultures, marking it as the first of its kind in Saudi Arabia.

Le Prestige Mall

• Location: Al Shati District, King Abdul Aziz Branch Road, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
• Opening Hours: Daily from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM

Le Prestige Mall is a luxurious shopping destination featuring stunning architecture and spacious interiors, perfect for leisurely strolls, coffee breaks, and fine dining.

Strategic Location

The mall is located in the Al Shati district along King Abdul Aziz branch road, and operates daily from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM, showcasing its elegant design with glass domes and marble floors.

Dining Diversity

Visitors can enjoy a variety of international cuisines, including Brazilian dishes at Brasa de Brasil and Italian fare at L'Antica Pizzeria Da Michele. The mall also offers tropical dining experiences at Pongo Restaurant.

Cafe Offerings

Le Prestige Mall features several cafes, including Urth Café and Esquires, which provide a comfortable atmosphere for enjoying coffee and desserts.

Retail Variety

Shoppers can explore a wide range of stores, from gourmet chocolate shops like Jeff De Bruges to local oud and perfume retailers.

Mall of Arabia

• Location: Near King Abdulaziz International Airport, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
• Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM

Located just ten minutes from the airport, Mall of Arabia is a vast shopping destination featuring around 408 stores that cater to both international and local tastes.

Family-Friendly Environment

Spanning approximately 261,000 square meters, Mall of Arabia offers ample parking and various entertainment options, making it a popular choice for families.

Kid's Attractions

The mall features Kidzania, an indoor play village that encourages creativity through role-playing. Other attractions include Sparkies play zone and an exciting ice rink for kids.

Dining and Relaxation

A mix of international and local restaurants and cafes are available, with Grand Concerto providing an upscale atmosphere for coffee lovers and Smit Sarai offering delicious pastries.

Cinema Experience

Enjoy the unique Movi Cinema, showcasing both Saudi and international films in a state-of-the-art environment, complete with tasty popcorn and nachos.

Extensive Shopping Choices

With brands like Coach and Michael Kors, along with sportswear and children’s clothing, Mall of Arabia offers an extensive selection for every shopper.

Red Sea Mall

Red Sea Mall stands as a vibrant hub for families and friends, embodying a lively and joyful atmosphere. Spanning 242,000 square meters, it is one of the largest shopping centers on the western coast of Saudi Arabia, conveniently located by the waterfront in Jeddah.

Location:
Al-Muhammadiyyah, Jeddah 21512, Saudi Arabia

Opening Hours:

• Sunday to Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM
• Thursday to Saturday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM

Shopping Experience

Step into a world of fashion with over 600 stores at Red Sea Mall, where you can find the latest styles for men and women. This vast selection includes renowned international brands like Burberry, Beverly Hills Polo Club, and Polo Ralph Lauren. Beyond apparel, explore home decor at West Elm, featuring chic furnishings and accents. Health and beauty products are available at Virgin World, along with office supplies and electronics, ensuring every need is met.

The mall also showcases luxurious fragrance boutiques such as Paris Gallery and Joe Malone, offering exclusive scents, as well as must-have perfumes from Penhaligon's. For a refreshing makeover, the Henna salon is an excellent option.

Entertainment Options

Red Sea Mall is not just about shopping; it’s a complete entertainment experience. Enjoy thrilling films at Vox Cinema, featuring 3D IMAX technology for an immersive viewing experience. With a wide range of snacks available, from sweet and salty popcorn to fast food, your movie night is sure to be enjoyable.

Events and Activities

The event hall at Red Sea Mall is a vibrant venue for various activities and celebrations. From national events to corporate gatherings, the lively ambiance ensures that every visit is unforgettable, filled with excitement and engagement.

Dining Selection

With over 80 restaurants and cafes, dining options abound at Red Sea Mall. Whether you're craving Chinese, Japanese, or delicious Italian pizza, there’s something for everyone. Coffee lovers will find a plethora of premium options, while the delightful aromas from Paul’s French café evoke the charm of Paris. Indulge in Godiva chocolates for a sweet finish to your meal.

Luxurious Accommodation

Adjacent to the mall is Elaf Red Sea, a boutique hotel that combines elegance with convenience. This hotel offers easy access to the Jeddah Waterfront, the airport, and the city center, making it an ideal choice for business and leisure travelers. With a focus on privacy and luxury, Elaf Red Sea is ISO 9001 certified, ensuring top-notch hospitality.

Family-Friendly Fun

Families can enjoy a variety of activities, from bowling and pool at the In10SO center—Saudi Arabia’s premier indoor karting venue—to thrilling virtual reality experiences at the Tech Zone. Kids can explore dedicated play areas like Sparkies and Adventura Arena, designed for ages one to eight, ensuring endless entertainment.

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Souq Al Alawi

Dating back to 1716, Souq Al Alawi is one of the oldest and most vibrant markets in Historic Jeddah. Once a vital stop for pilgrims traveling to Makkah, this bustling open-air bazaar is filled with activity. Visitors can discover a variety of authentic Arabian jewelry, incense, traditional attire, spices, herbs, and remedies, making it a quintessential part of Jeddah's cultural landscape.

Location:
Historic Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Opening Hours:

• Saturday to Thursday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Friday: Closed

Souq Al Badu

Just steps away from Bab Makkah, Souq Al Badu is an open-air market rich in tradition. The inviting scent of incense fills the air, and this souq has gained fame for its exquisite women’s clothing, fabrics, scarves, and traditional handicrafts.

Location:
Near Bab Makkah, Historic Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Operating Hours:

• Saturday to Thursday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Friday: Closed

Souq Al Jamei

Located near Al Shafi'i Mosque, Souq Al Jamei is a symbol of community and tradition. Particularly lively during Ramadan, it offers a unique assortment of fabrics, women’s clothing, and accessories. Its close proximity to Souq Al Badu makes it a bustling meeting point for traders and visitors, fostering a vibrant exchange of goods and stories.

Location:
Near Al Shafi'i Mosque, Historic Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Opening Hours:

• Saturday to Thursday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Friday: Closed

Souq Al Nada

Souq Al Nada has long been a center for maritime trade and is celebrated in Arabic literature for its appeal. Today, the lively lanes are filled with shops offering local delicacies and custom tailoring, emphasizing its role as a vibrant symbol of Historic Jeddah's cultural and commercial heritage.

Location:
Historic Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Opening Hours:

• Saturday to Thursday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Friday: Closed

Souq Qabil

One of Jeddah’s oldest business districts, Souq Qabil dates back to the early 20th century. Known for its gold and currency exchange shops, it continues to thrive with traditional goods. Historic buildings constructed from coral stone stand as a testament to the district's rich cultural heritage.

Location:
Historic Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Opening Hours:

• Saturday to Thursday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Friday: Closed

In summary, Jeddah provides an exciting shopping landscape that combines contemporary retail with rich cultural heritage. With its variety of shopping venues, the city ensures an enjoyable experience for every visitor, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the best of Saudi Arabian commerce and culture.

In a landmark move to simplify travel and enhance bilateral relations, Kuwaiti citizens can now apply for Indian e-visas entirely online beginning Monday, July 14, 2025. The announcement was made by Dr. Adarsh Swaika, India’s Ambassador to Kuwait, who described the launch as a “qualitative shift” in India-Kuwait engagement.

The new digital platform covers five visa categories: tourism, business, medical, conference, and AYUSH (alternative medicine including yoga and Ayurveda). Applicants no longer need to visit visa centers; all steps including application submission, document upload, and payment are completed online.

Key features of the e-visa system include:

Tourist visas valid for up to five years at a fee of $80
Other visa fees range from $40 to $80 depending on type and duration
Biometric data collection upon arrival at Indian airports
Typical processing time of three to four days, with minor technical issues possible during rollout

Ambassador Swaika emphasized that this initiative responds to a long-standing request from Kuwaiti citizens and reflects the deep historic and cultural ties between the two nations. The move also aligns with India’s broader efforts to modernize consular services and strengthen diplomatic and people-to-people connections in the Gulf region.

The e-visa allows for a variety of short-term activities such as tourism, business meetings, medical treatment (including under Indian traditional medicine systems), attending conferences, and participation in yoga or Ayurveda programs.

Applicants must hold a passport valid for at least six months and possess a return or onward ticket. The Indian Consulate in Kuwait will continue to accept paper visa applications for those who prefer traditional processing.

This digital visa rollout is expected to boost travel, trade, and cultural exchange between India and Kuwait, supporting the growing interest among Kuwaitis in Indian tourism, healthcare, and business opportunities.
For more information and to apply, Kuwaiti citizens can access the official Indian e-visa portal, which provides guidance in both English and Arabic.

This development marks a significant step forward in facilitating seamless cross-border travel and enhancing the longstanding friendship between India and Kuwait.

As the UAE’s summer sun blazes and school holidays stretch on, families across the Emirates are searching for ways to keep children engaged, inspired, and out of the heat. This season, the country’s museums are stepping up as vibrant playgrounds for young minds, blending hands-on learning with immersive fun. Here’s a feature look at ten standout museums where kids can embark on unforgettable adventures, discover new passions, and make the most of their summer break.

1. Louvre Abu Dhabi

Step into a world where East meets West beneath the iconic “rain of light” dome. The Louvre Abu Dhabi isn’t just about art—it’s a journey through human creativity, with galleries that juxtapose ancient artifacts and modern masterpieces. The Children’s Museum offers interactive exhibits at a child’s eye level, encouraging hands-on exploration and creativity. Family workshops and treasure hunts make every visit a new adventure.

2. Museum of the Future, Dubai

This architectural marvel is more than a photo opportunity. Inside, kids can dive into futuristic worlds, design cities, and interact with AI-powered displays. The “Future Heroes” zone is dedicated to children, where they can play, build, and solve eco-challenges, earning digital badges along the way.

The annual Future Heroes Summer Camp, running from July 21 to August 7, 2025, immerses children ages 6 to 13 in weekly themes of sustainability, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Activities range from robotics and 3D printing to real-world problem-solving, all designed to empower the next generation of changemakers.

3. Dubai Museum (Al Fahidi Fort)

Housed in Dubai’s oldest building, this museum brings the city’s transformation to life. Kids can wander through recreated souks, pearl diving expeditions, and desert scenes, all brought to life with life-sized dioramas and authentic artifacts. It’s a hands-on history lesson that contrasts the city’s humble beginnings with its modern skyline.

4. Sharjah Science Museum

Curiosity comes alive here with interactive workshops on everything from color theory and sound to space, AI, and chemistry. Children can experiment, tinker, and even try their hand at perfume-making. The museum’s summer camps, running in late July and early August, are designed to build critical thinking and a love for discovery through hands-on experiments and group activities, with sessions tailored for different age groups.

5. OliOli, Dubai

Dubbed the “anti-boredom zone,” OliOli is a hands-on laboratory of curiosity. With eight immersive galleries, kids can climb, splash, and experiment with air cannons, water channels, and more. The Future Park zone uses projection mapping to turn children’s doodles into animated creatures, while Arabic storytelling sessions add a cultural twist.

6. Museum of Illusions, Dubai

Prepare for mind-bending fun! This museum is packed with optical illusions, brain teasers, and interactive exhibits that challenge perception and spark laughter. The Vortex Tunnel and Ames Room are favorites, and the smart playroom lets kids compete and learn through puzzles and games.

7. Sharjah Maritime Museum

Dive into the UAE’s seafaring heritage with traditional dhows, pearl diving equipment, and navigation tools. Kids can join “Maritime Adventures,” a summer camp from August 4 to 14, where they’ll try fishing, cook Emirati dishes, and make scented herbal candles—all while learning about the region’s deep connection to the sea.

8. Etihad Museum, Dubai

Located at the historic site where the UAE was founded, this museum’s interactive exhibits and holographic displays bring the nation’s story to life. Children can design their own passports, explore the Union Vault, and even film mini-documentaries, making history both accessible and exciting.

9. House of Wisdom, Sharjah

This ultra-modern library and cultural center fuses architecture, light, and technology. The “Little Reader” zone features AR books, sound domes, and LEGO robotics kits, while the Sculpture Garden outside offers a creative space for picnics and play. Summer camps here blend reading, science, and art in a futuristic setting. The Al Jazari FabLab, for kids aged 6 to 15, introduces AI, 3D printing, and coding through storytelling, while the Kalila wa Dimna camp brings classic Arabic fables to life with shadow theatre and puppetry.

10. Al Shindagha Museum, Dubai

Explore Dubai’s roots in this museum’s “Living Off the Sea and Land” pavilion, where interactive floor projections and scent stations immerse kids in old Emirati life. The Summer Camp, running mid-July, transforms children into young archaeologists—digging for fossils, exploring ancient trades, and learning about Dubai’s transformation from fishing village to global city through hands-on workshops and crafts

Tips for Visiting UAE Museums with Kids

• Stay Cool: Most museums are fully air-conditioned—perfect for escaping the summer heat.
• Check Schedules: Many offer extended hours and special summer programs; early registration is often required due to limited slots.
• Dress Modestly: Especially important at museums focused on Islamic culture.
• Photography: Allowed in most museums, but check for restrictions.
• Combo Tickets: Look for joint passes to save on multiple visits.

This summer, let the UAE’s museums be your family’s passport to discovery, creativity, and endless fun. Whether your child dreams of exploring ancient civilizations, coding robots, or building the cities of tomorrow, these museums promise stories and memories that will last long after the school bell rings again.

Sharjah Airport has announced its full readiness to accommodate the significant increase in passenger traffic expected during the peak summer travel season. From July 1 to 15, 2025, the airport anticipates welcoming over 800,000 travelers, reflecting a substantial rise compared to previous years. This surge is driven by increased tourism, holiday travel, and business activities in the region.

To manage this influx, the Sharjah Airport Authority (SAA) has implemented a comprehensive operational plan developed in collaboration with airlines, ground handling companies, security agencies, and health authorities. The plan focuses on enhancing passenger experience by streamlining check-in, security screening, and boarding processes. Additional counters and staff have been deployed to reduce wait times, while advanced biometric and automated systems are being utilized to expedite passenger flow.

Customer service teams are working tirelessly around the clock to provide assistance, answer inquiries, and guide passengers through the airport’s smart services and innovative technologies, such as contactless check-in kiosks and real-time flight information displays. The airport has also expanded its lounge capacities and improved amenities to ensure comfort during waiting periods.

In line with global health and safety standards, Sharjah Airport continues to enforce rigorous sanitation protocols, including frequent cleaning of high-touch areas and mandatory mask policies where applicable. Health screening procedures remain in place, and the airport has coordinated with local health authorities to facilitate COVID-19 testing and vaccination verification as required by destination countries.

Security measures have been upgraded to incorporate the latest technologies and intelligence-sharing practices, ensuring passenger safety without compromising efficiency. The airport’s infrastructure has been enhanced to support the increased traffic, including expanded parking facilities and improved ground transportation links to and from the airport.

Passengers are strongly advised to arrive at least three hours before their scheduled departure to allow sufficient time for check-in and security procedures. It is also recommended that travelers verify their flight details and any travel advisories directly with their airlines prior to arriving at the airport, as schedules may be subject to change during this busy period.

The Sharjah Airport Authority remains committed to delivering the highest standards of service and safety, reinforcing Sharjah Airport’s status as a key regional and international travel hub. Continuous monitoring and adjustments will be made throughout the peak season to maintain operational excellence and ensure a smooth travel experience for all passengers. For further information and updates, travelers can visit the official Sharjah Airport website or contact their airline customer service centers.

Oman Air has officially joined the oneworld alliance as its 15th member, effective July 1, 2025, significantly expanding the alliance’s footprint in the Middle East and providing travelers with enhanced connectivity and premium benefits. With its hub at Muscat International Airport, Oman Air connects 42 destinations across 22 countries, including key routes in the Middle East, Far East, Africa, and Europe.

The airline’s recent launch of a nonstop Muscat–Amsterdam service exemplifies its commitment to growing its international network and offering more gateways for travelers to and from Europe.

As a full oneworld member, Oman Air now provides reciprocal benefits to frequent flyers across the alliance. Oneworld Emerald, Sapphire, and Ruby status holders can earn and redeem miles, enjoy priority check-in and boarding, and access nearly 700 airport lounges worldwide, including newly opened oneworld-branded lounges at Amsterdam Schiphol and Seoul Incheon.

Oman Air’s own Sindbad loyalty program members will similarly benefit from alliance-wide privileges, with the ability to accrue and spend miles on all oneworld carriers and enjoy tier-based perks when flying with partner airlines.

Oman Air stands out for its premium service, operating a modern fleet of Boeing 737s and 787 Dreamliners configured in two or three classes, including its acclaimed Business Studio private suites on long-haul flights. The airline has received multiple accolades, such as Best Food & Beverage and Best Cabin Service in the Middle East at the 2025 APEX Awards, and was recognized as one of only ten airlines globally to achieve the APEX WORLD CLASS by YATES+ status, including for its Business Class Lounge at Muscat.

CEO Con Korfiatis emphasized that joining oneworld aligns with Oman Air’s vision to offer world-class hospitality and seamless travel experiences, inviting global travelers to discover Oman’s rich culture, landscapes, and hospitality. For the alliance, Oman Air’s membership not only strengthens its premium positioning but also provides strategic reach across the Gulf and South Asia, complementing the existing network of major carriers like Qatar Airways and Royal Jordanian.

Despite the expanded benefits, some limitations remain: Oman Air’s First Lounge is currently closed, and certain Economy Saver fares may not qualify for additional baggage allowance, mirroring the rules in Oman Air’s own Sindbad program. Nevertheless, the integration is expected to deliver substantial value to both Oman Air and oneworld customers, making Oman and its national carrier more accessible and attractive for international travelers.

Authorities in Oman have unveiled detailed plans to transform the old Muscat airport terminal, which spans a 50,000 square meter site, into a major leisure and commercial destination. The redevelopment will follow a Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) model, with interested developers invited to submit Expressions of Interest by July 9, 2024.

Overseeing the project is Oman Airports Management Company, part of the Oman Investment Authority, which aims to create an upscale, mixed-use hub that integrates retail outlets, restaurants, business centers, and multi-level parking, alongside a proposed aviation museum to celebrate Oman's aviation history.

The site’s prime location at the intersection of Sultan Qaboos Highway and Muscat Expressway ensures excellent connectivity to major city landmarks, including the Oman Convention & Exhibition Center, luxury hotels, and shopping malls. The Greater Muscat Master Plan also anticipates a future metro station adjacent to the site, which is expected to drive significant visitor traffic and commercial interest.

The old terminal, which opened in 1973 and served as Oman’s main airport until 2018, will be revitalized to honor its historical significance while providing modern amenities. The aviation-themed redevelopment will include an aviation museum, shopping centers, restaurants, and entertainment venues, aiming to attract both local residents and tourists.

The project is designed to enhance Muscat’s urban landscape and contribute to the city’s economic development by drawing high-end tenants, investors, and real estate developers.

The transformation is also aligned with Oman’s National Aviation Strategy 2030, which seeks to attract $3.6 billion in airport city investments and open the sector to private and international investors. The redevelopment emphasizes sustainability by repurposing the existing terminal structure, reducing environmental impact compared to new construction.

The selection process for the developer will continue through the summer, with site visits already scheduled for interested bidders. Once completed, the new leisure hub is expected to become a landmark destination, reflecting both Oman's aviation legacy and its ambitions for future growth