Jeddah history

The history of Jeddah dates back to ancient times, and its development is inextricably linked to its geographical location on the shores of the Red Sea and its proximity to the holy city of Makkah.

Foundation and First Mentions

Archaeological findings indicate that settlements on the site of modern-day Jeddah existed as far back as the prehistoric era. According to some accounts, the city was founded in the late 6th or even 7th century BC by settlers from Yemen. For centuries, Jeddah remained a modest fishing port. A turning point in its history occurred in 647 AD, when the third Rashidun Caliph, Uthman ibn Affan, officially proclaimed Jeddah as the main port for pilgrims travelling to Makkah to perform Hajj. This decision predetermined the city's future as a key logistical and cultural hub.

Key Factors of Development

The rise of Jeddah was driven by several factors:

• Geographical Location: Its position on the eastern coast of the Red Sea made the city a natural maritime gateway on the route to Makkah. It became a vital node on trade routes connecting the Mediterranean with India and Southeast Asia.
• Trade: Its status as a pilgrim port fostered the rapid development of commerce. Not only people but also goods passed through Jeddah: spices, incense, silk, cotton, and precious metals. The city's markets, or "souqs," such as the famous Al-Alawi, became centers of economic life.
• Religious Significance: As the "Gateway to Makkah," Jeddah acquired immense cultural and religious importance for Muslims worldwide, ensuring a constant influx of people and ideas.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

From the very beginning of its flourishing, Jeddah was a multicultural city where different peoples and traditions mingled. The constant flow of pilgrims and merchants facilitated the exchange of knowledge, cultural practices, and crafts. This was reflected in the unique architecture of the old town (Al-Balad), where buildings were constructed using coral stone and adorned with intricate wooden balconies known as *rawashin*. The city's economy was firmly tied to maritime trade and serving the needs of pilgrims, making it one of the most prosperous centers on the Arabian Peninsula.

Key Milestones in Jeddah's History

Jeddah's history is a centuries-old chronicle reflecting its transformation from a small fishing village into a thriving trade port and the "Gateway to Makkah." The city has witnessed the rise and fall of empires, playing a key role in maritime trade and the religious life of the Islamic world.

• 6th Century BC — It is believed that the first settlements on the site of the modern city were founded by settlers from Yemen.
• 647 AD — Caliph Uthman ibn Affan officially proclaims Jeddah as the main port for pilgrims heading to Makkah, marking a turning point in its development.
• 969 — The city becomes part of the Fatimid Caliphate, expanding its trade connections as far as India and China.
• 1177 — Jeddah comes under the control of the Ayyubid dynasty, strengthening its economic significance and promoting the spread of Sunni Islam in the region.
• 1517 — The city successfully repels an attack by the Portuguese fleet and becomes part of the Ottoman Empire, which fortifies it for protection against European naval powers.
• 1802 — Jeddah is captured by the forces of the First Saudi State (Emirate of Diriyah) but is returned to Ottoman control a few years later.
• 1916 — During the Arab Revolt, Jeddah becomes part of the independent Kingdom of Hejaz.
• 1925 — Following the Battle of Jeddah, the city comes under the rule of Abdulaziz ibn Saud, completing the unification of the Hejaz and Nejd.
• 1932 — Jeddah officially becomes part of the new state — the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
• 1980s — Construction of King Fahd's Fountain, which became one of the tallest in the world and a modern symbol of the city.
• 2014 — The historic center of Jeddah, Al-Balad, is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, confirming its unique cultural and architectural value.

Key Stages of Jeddah's Development

The history of Jeddah is a journey from an ancient settlement to one of the most important metropolises in Saudi Arabia. Known as the "Bride of the Red Sea," the city has played a pivotal role in the region's trade, religion, and culture for centuries. Below are the main milestones of its impressive development.

• Ancient Port and "Gateway to Makkah" (647). A turning point in the city's early history was Caliph Uthman ibn Affan's decision to designate Jeddah as the official port for pilgrims traveling to Makkah. This defined its status as a crucial logistical and cultural center of the Islamic world for many centuries.
• Center of International Trade. Thanks to its strategic location on the Red Sea, Jeddah became a vital hub on trade routes linking the Mediterranean with India and Southeast Asia. Spices, incense, silk, and precious metals passed through the port, contributing to economic prosperity and the formation of a multicultural society.
• Oil Boom and Modernization (20th Century). The discovery of oil in Saudi Arabia in the mid-20th century provided a powerful impetus for Jeddah's rapid modernization. The city began active construction, transforming from a historic port into the country's modern business and financial center.
• Infrastructure Development. The construction of King Abdulaziz International Airport and the Jeddah Islamic Port—the largest on the Red Sea—solidified its position as a global transport hub. The creation of the famous Corniche waterfront featuring King Fahd's Fountain, one of the tallest in the world, transformed the city's appearance and created a popular public space.
• UNESCO Recognition (2014). The inclusion of the historic Al-Balad district in the UNESCO World Heritage List highlighted the unique cultural value of its architecture. This spurred the launch of large-scale programs to restore ancient buildings and revitalize the historic center.
• "Vision 2030" and a New Era. Within the framework of the national "Vision 2030" strategy, Jeddah is undergoing a new stage of transformation. Mega-projects like the Jeddah Central Project are being implemented to develop tourism, entertainment, and create new economic opportunities, making the city one of the most dynamically developing in the Middle East.

Architectural Contrasts: Heritage and Modernity

The appearance of Jeddah represents a unique dialogue between eras, where centuries-old traditions stand alongside futuristic ambitions. The urban environment is clearly divided into two worlds: historic quarters breathing antiquity, and ultra-modern districts symbolizing the Kingdom's economic power.

The historic core of the city is the Al-Balad district, which has preserved the traditional Hejazi style. Buildings here were constructed for centuries using coral limestone quarried from the Red Sea coast. The hallmark of this style is the roshan (plural: rawashin)—intricate wooden balconies and bay windows adorning the facades. These elements not only add aesthetic expressiveness to the buildings but also serve a practical purpose: they provide natural ventilation and protect residents from the scorching sun while maintaining privacy.

Modern Saudi Arabia, by contrast, relies on glass, concrete, and steel. High-rise buildings and wide avenues dominate the new districts of Jeddah. The 21st-century architecture here is characterized by bold forms and engineering solutions, reflecting the city's aspiration to become a global metropolis and a center of innovation.

Landmark Structures of the City

Several key objects stand out in Jeddah's architectural portrait, each telling its own story.

• Nassif House. A gem of the old city, built in the late 19th century. This mansion is famous not only for its rich history but also for its architectural features: wide staircases were designed so that one could ascend them while riding a camel, and the interiors are adorned with magnificent carvings.
• The Floating Mosque (Al-Rahma Mosque). One of the most photographed buildings in the city. The mosque is built on stilts directly over the sea, and during high tide, it creates the perfect illusion that the pristine white structure is hovering above the waves.
• Hajj Terminal. Part of King Abdulaziz International Airport, this structure has been awarded prestigious architectural prizes. The massive tensile structure, stylized to resemble Bedouin tents, utilizes principles of natural air circulation to create a comfortable temperature in the hot climate.
• Jeddah Tower. An ambitious skyscraper project intended to become the world's new vertical landmark. Its arrow-like shape, resembling a palm sprout, symbolizes growth, prosperity, and a striving towards the future.

Prominent Figures Associated with Jeddah

For centuries, Jeddah has been a center of attraction for many iconic figures whose activities have influenced not only the city but the entire region. From religious leaders and state founders to pioneers in business and art, these individuals have left a significant mark on history.

• Uthman ibn Affan (574–656) — The third Rashidun Caliph and a companion of the Prophet Muhammad. His historical significance for the city is immense: in 647, he proclaimed Jeddah the main port for pilgrims heading to Makkah. This decision defined Jeddah's destiny as a key trade and cultural center of the Islamic world.
• Sheikh Omar Effendi Nassif (19th Century) — An influential merchant and governor of Jeddah. He went down in history as the builder of the famous Nassif House (1872)—one of the most beautiful buildings in the historic Al-Balad district. This house became an important political center and the temporary residence of King Abdulaziz after the unification of the country.
• Abdulaziz ibn Saud (1876–1953) — The founder and first King of Saudi Arabia. In 1925, his troops entered Jeddah, completing the unification of the Hejaz and Nejd. Subsequently, the city became the diplomatic and economic gateway of the new kingdom, and Nassif House served as his first royal residence in Jeddah.
• Safeya Binzagr (born 1940) — One of the first professional female artists in Saudi Arabia and a pioneer of modern art in the country. She dedicated her work to preserving the cultural heritage of the Hejaz. In Jeddah, she founded the "Darat Safeya Binzagr" museum, which exhibits her works documenting the traditional life and customs of the region.
• Saleh Abdullah Kamel (1941–2020) — A prominent billionaire businessman and founder of the Dallah Albaraka Group conglomerate. He is considered one of the "fathers of modern Islamic finance" and played a key role in transforming Jeddah into a powerful economic hub while serving as chairman of the city's Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
• Mohammed Noor (born 1978) — A legendary footballer and long-time captain of Jeddah's Al-Ittihad club. He led the team to numerous victories in the national championship and the AFC Champions League, becoming one of the most titled and recognizable athletes in the history of Saudi football.