Jeddah's Must-See Museums: A Journey Through History and Culture

To fully appreciate the Red Sea's beauty, explore Jeddah's museums. After enjoying the city's neighborhoods, alleys, and water sports, don't miss the opportunity to step back in time. Witness Jeddah in all its historical, contemporary, and future splendor.

By NATALIE KEBBE

Begin Slideshow

1 of 6

Nassif House Museum

Built for Omar Nasseef Efendi, the governor of Jeddah at the time, the Nassif House Museum dates back to the late 1800s. Established in 2009, it is a significant historical landmark in Al-Balad, Jeddah, once the residence of King Abdulaziz ibn Saud, the founder of modern-day Saudi Arabia. This cultural gem features a remarkable collection of vintage photographs, providing deep insights into the region's history. It's also known as 'The House with the Tree' due to a unique neem tree in its courtyard, which was a rare sight in the region until the 1920s.

2 of 6

House of Jeddah and Our Good Days

House of Jeddah and Our Good Days Museum, formerly a historic residence, has been meticulously preserved, serving as a time capsule for Al-Balad. Located in the same area and from the same historical era as Bait Nassif, it has retained more of its social history. A visit offers a glimpse of historic currency, early canned goods, the original version of a popular soft drink, and the "gramophone" musical device.

3 of 6

Tayebat Museum

Tayebat Museum in Al Faisaliyah district recreates traditional Hijazi architecture, housing 150 suites and 365 rooms blending civilization and heritage. The interior showcases Saudi heritage and Islamic art, with 15 years of collecting remarkable artworks and rare antiques.

Nearby is Sheikh Abdul Raouf Khalil Museum, founded by the visionary behind Tayebat Museum, housing manuscripts and unique antiques collected over 44 years, unrivaled in the Middle East.

4 of 6

Jeddah Sculptures Museum

The mayor of Jeddah approved the purchase of around 400 sculptures in the 1970s, including important pieces by Alexander Calder, Joan Miro, and Henry Moore. In a seven square kilometre park, Art Jameel and the Jeddah Municipality established an outdoor sculpture museum that features twenty of the pieces.

5 of 6

Museum of Home Art

Once a private residence, this 5,000 square meters has been transformed into a museum featuring an extensive collection of unique antiques and retro furnishings.

6 of 6

Al-Balad Open Museum

While numerous museums are situated in the UNESCO World Heritage site, strolling through the streets of Al-Balad feels akin to entering an outdoor museum that transports you back in time.

Tourism in Jeddah