Jeddah Al-Balad... The Pleasure of Strolling Through History During Saudi Winter

A glimpse of the architectural beauty of Jeddah Al Balad.
A glimpse of the architectural beauty of Jeddah Al Balad.
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Jeddah Al-Balad... The Pleasure of Strolling Through History During Saudi Winter

A glimpse of the architectural beauty of Jeddah Al Balad.
A glimpse of the architectural beauty of Jeddah Al Balad.

In any discussion about Saudi Arabia’s most prominent tourist sites, Jeddah is inevitably at the forefront.

The Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage made sure that its campaign, Saudi Winter, which runs until the end of March, strived to do the city justice.

The Commission marked out more than 17 winter tourism destinations. With its enchanting atmosphere in the winter and its various sites and monuments, Jeddah is mentioned as an excellent destination.

When speaking of Jeddah as a touristic destination, one cannot but start with Al-Balad (also known as its Historic District), which UNESCO has labeled a World Heritage Site.

Strolling through Jeddah’s historic streets is a unique experience, akin to wandering around in an open-air architecture museum. Its buildings have their own unique style, as do its old shops and streets. The smell of incense and spices that many of the country’s markets are renowned for give a visit to the city a special aroma and a distinctive feel.

The historic district is home to several heritage sites and buildings, like the Old Wall and the Gate of Makkah. It boasts Beit Nassif, the most renowned of Jeddah’s architectural landmarks, where Saudi Arabia’s founder King Abdulaziz bin Abdul Rahman Al Saud lived. It is home to the Matbouli House Museum, with its Hijazi architecture and intricately decorated wood-clad entrances.

Perhaps a visit to the Historic District in Jeddah is worthwhile as part of Saudi Winter, which offers more than 300 experiences and various packages provided by over 200 private companies.



Taif to Host Global Forum for Roses, Aromatic Plants in Spring

Approximately 550 million roses are harvested annually from Taif's farms, with plans to increase this number to over 2 billion roses annually by 2030  - SPA
Approximately 550 million roses are harvested annually from Taif's farms, with plans to increase this number to over 2 billion roses annually by 2030 - SPA
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Taif to Host Global Forum for Roses, Aromatic Plants in Spring

Approximately 550 million roses are harvested annually from Taif's farms, with plans to increase this number to over 2 billion roses annually by 2030  - SPA
Approximately 550 million roses are harvested annually from Taif's farms, with plans to increase this number to over 2 billion roses annually by 2030 - SPA

Taif Governorate is set to host the Rose and Aromatic Plants Global Forum in early April at Al-Hada Mountains to enhance the global standing of roses by collaborating with local and international stakeholders to innovate unique solutions.
The event aims to foster and promote cultural, tourism, and entertainment diversity, while also driving the economic transformation of Taif roses and exploring tools for their development and marketing to achieve global reach, according to SPA.
The forum represents an exceptional opportunity for government entities, companies, and universities to exchange expertise and showcase innovations in the field of roses and aromatic plants. It seeks to support the development of manufacturing industries and boost the local economy in line with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.
The forum will feature several scientific discussion sessions focusing on Taif roses and aromatic plants, highlighting their economic importance in attracting visitors and tourists.
Approximately 550 million roses are harvested annually from Taif's farms, with plans to increase this number to over 2 billion roses annually by 2030.