Historic Balad transforms into Jeddah city center, attracting 1 million tourists during first week of Ramadan

JEDDAH — Historic Jeddah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, transforms into the beating heart of Jeddah city under the light of Ramadan lanterns.

In a scene that reflects the historical value and emotional significance of the historic center of Balad, statistics reveal an extraordinary number of visitors of more than 1 million people in the first week of Ramadan alone. Visitors formed a vibrant tapestry of human patterns that stretched from the Bab Mecca, the Mecca Gate, to the depths of the ancient alleys.

This massive influx, facilitated by an extensive event calendar managed by Benchmark, has transformed plazas and laneways into vibrant spaces. Amidst the voices of Ramadan vendors and displays of traditional crafts, visitors found themselves traveling through time, evoking details of traditional social life with modern touches.

Balad is always lively on Ramadan nights. The region has a rich blend of cultural heritage and activities, attracting residents and tourists seeking a spiritual atmosphere that reflects the Hijazi identity. After Taraweeh prayers, the narrow alleys transform into lively lanes illuminated by lanterns and traditional lights. Wright highlights the coral stone buildings and intricately carved wooden windows known as lawasheen, some of which are more than five centuries old.

Historic museums and houses were also included in the spectacle, with places like Beit Nassif, Beit Al Matbouli and Beit Zainal drawing crowds of tourists and locals alike to explore the unique architecture, which combines coral stone and wooden lattices. Digital guidance and smart crowd management ensured smooth traffic flow despite the high flow of visitors.

Visitors also stroll through traditional markets such as Souk Al Alawi and Souk Kabir, which sell spices, oriental perfumes, textiles, and handicrafts.

Balad hosts cultural and artistic events throughout its historic square. Traditional cafes and restaurants further enrich the experience. We offer traditional cuisine and Ramadan beverages that reflect the area’s diverse cultural heritage in an atmosphere characterized by warmth and social connection.

During the nights of Ramadan, Balad exists as a place where history and modernity meet. It maintains its identity while strengthening Jeddah’s place on the kingdom’s cultural map.