Souq Al Alawi

The main traditional market threading through the historic Al-Balad district of Jeddah, its narrow lanes running between coral-stone houses and old mosques. Stalls and shops sell spices, incense, textiles, gold, perfumes and everyday goods, and the crowded alleys come alive in the evenings. The souq has served the port city for generations as a centre of trade for pilgrims and residents alike. Wandering its shaded passages offers a strong sense of old Jeddah's commercial life within the wider UNESCO-listed historic quarter.