Jeddah, a bustling city on Saudi Arabia's west coast, is renowned for its vibrant shopping scene. From modern malls filled with international brands to traditional souks brimming with local crafts, the city offers a diverse shopping experience that appeals to all tastes. Whether you're looking for the latest fashion, unique souvenirs, or delicious local delicacies, Jeddah is a shopper's paradise.

Al Balad Market

• Location: Al Balad, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
• Opening Hours: Daily from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Al Balad, a captivating area where historic homes have been transformed into vibrant art galleries and specialty cafes. As you wander through this ancient district, admire the stunning architecture featuring the iconic wooden Rawashins. Al Balad combines historical charm with modern conveniences, located just twenty minutes from top shopping centers, international restaurants, and the thrilling STC Formula 1 Saudi Grand Prix.

Al Khayyat Center

• Location: Near AlNuwat Roundabout, Prince Mohammed bin Abdul-Aziz Street, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
• Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM

Al Khayyat Center is a premier shopping destination located near the AlNuwat roundabout on Prince Mohammed bin Abdul-Aziz Street. Known for its collection of high-end fashion and luxury jewelry brands, it is conveniently situated just six minutes from the Ritz Carlton Hotel and seven minutes from Alhamra Cornish.

Shopping Experience

The center features two sections: one dedicated to prestigious global brands like Chanel, Gucci, and Prada, and another for jewelry enthusiasts with names such as Louis Vuitton and Dior. Footwear and handbag selections include Tod’s and Burberry.

Beauty and Wellness

For relaxation and pampering, visit the luxurious salon "Malda Al Khayyat," offering a variety of beauty services. Al Khayyat Center 2 also features renowned salons like "Jamalouki" and "Bouthaina," known for their exceptional service.

Culinary Offerings

Take a break at the cafes in Al Khayyat Center 2, which serve exquisite coffee. Notable spots include Sculpture Cafe for its French toast and flat white, and Caffeine Lab, which offers high-quality coffee beans. For a fine dining experience, consider reserving a table at Diora's for Mediterranean cuisine.

Local Boutiques

Discover unique local boutiques, including "Amani Al Habshi - Memen" for stylish Abayas and “AG Ain Ghain” for watches and sunglasses. Concept stores like Makeen enhance the shopping experience with curated selections.

Jeddah Boulevard

• Location: Al Shati District, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
• Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM

Jeddah Boulevard offers a luxurious blend of shopping, dining, and relaxation, all set against a backdrop of beautiful fountains—perfect for family outings.

Elegant Atmosphere

Since its opening in 2015, Jeddah Boulevard has become a bustling hub for luxury shopping and gourmet dining. This modern venue showcases a wide range of high-end brands and celebrated cafes.

Fashion Highlights

Fashion lovers will find iconic brands such as Prada, Gucci, and Balenciaga, alongside exclusive offerings from Dolce & Gabbana and Jimmy Choo.

Dining Experiences

The Boulevard is home to various international restaurants with both indoor and outdoor seating. Enjoy authentic Lebanese cuisine at Karam Beirut or indulge in Asian dishes at Novikov and Baco.

Coffee Shops

A variety of cafes throughout Jeddah Boulevard provide quality coffee and pastries. Dots Donut is especially popular for its fresh donuts and unique toppings.

Jeddah Park

• Location: Al Shati District, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
• Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM

Jeddah Park features an expansive design with outdoor fountains and spacious interiors, offering luxury shopping, cozy cafes, a cinema, and a diverse food court, making it ideal for families.

Shopping Variety

This destination hosts a wide array of international brands, including Tommy Hilfiger and Zara. Visitors can also explore beauty shops like L’Occitane and Inglot.

Family Entertainment

Children can enjoy attractions like “Octo City,” with live shows and interactive play. “Strike 10” offers bowling and other fun activities.

Dining Options

After shopping, dine at the acclaimed “C house Milano” or grab a quick bite from popular fast-food chains. Numerous cafes provide a cozy atmosphere, including “Paul” and “Candy Tree Cafe” for local desserts.

Cultural Experience

Visit the House of Islamic Arts, showcasing over 1,000 art pieces from various cultures, marking it as the first of its kind in Saudi Arabia.

Le Prestige Mall

• Location: Al Shati District, King Abdul Aziz Branch Road, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
• Opening Hours: Daily from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM

Le Prestige Mall is a luxurious shopping destination featuring stunning architecture and spacious interiors, perfect for leisurely strolls, coffee breaks, and fine dining.

Strategic Location

The mall is located in the Al Shati district along King Abdul Aziz branch road, and operates daily from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM, showcasing its elegant design with glass domes and marble floors.

Dining Diversity

Visitors can enjoy a variety of international cuisines, including Brazilian dishes at Brasa de Brasil and Italian fare at L'Antica Pizzeria Da Michele. The mall also offers tropical dining experiences at Pongo Restaurant.

Cafe Offerings

Le Prestige Mall features several cafes, including Urth Café and Esquires, which provide a comfortable atmosphere for enjoying coffee and desserts.

Retail Variety

Shoppers can explore a wide range of stores, from gourmet chocolate shops like Jeff De Bruges to local oud and perfume retailers.

Mall of Arabia

• Location: Near King Abdulaziz International Airport, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
• Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM

Located just ten minutes from the airport, Mall of Arabia is a vast shopping destination featuring around 408 stores that cater to both international and local tastes.

Family-Friendly Environment

Spanning approximately 261,000 square meters, Mall of Arabia offers ample parking and various entertainment options, making it a popular choice for families.

Kid's Attractions

The mall features Kidzania, an indoor play village that encourages creativity through role-playing. Other attractions include Sparkies play zone and an exciting ice rink for kids.

Dining and Relaxation

A mix of international and local restaurants and cafes are available, with Grand Concerto providing an upscale atmosphere for coffee lovers and Smit Sarai offering delicious pastries.

Cinema Experience

Enjoy the unique Movi Cinema, showcasing both Saudi and international films in a state-of-the-art environment, complete with tasty popcorn and nachos.

Extensive Shopping Choices

With brands like Coach and Michael Kors, along with sportswear and children’s clothing, Mall of Arabia offers an extensive selection for every shopper.

Red Sea Mall

Red Sea Mall stands as a vibrant hub for families and friends, embodying a lively and joyful atmosphere. Spanning 242,000 square meters, it is one of the largest shopping centers on the western coast of Saudi Arabia, conveniently located by the waterfront in Jeddah.

Location:
Al-Muhammadiyyah, Jeddah 21512, Saudi Arabia

Opening Hours:

• Sunday to Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM
• Thursday to Saturday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM

Shopping Experience

Step into a world of fashion with over 600 stores at Red Sea Mall, where you can find the latest styles for men and women. This vast selection includes renowned international brands like Burberry, Beverly Hills Polo Club, and Polo Ralph Lauren. Beyond apparel, explore home decor at West Elm, featuring chic furnishings and accents. Health and beauty products are available at Virgin World, along with office supplies and electronics, ensuring every need is met.

The mall also showcases luxurious fragrance boutiques such as Paris Gallery and Joe Malone, offering exclusive scents, as well as must-have perfumes from Penhaligon's. For a refreshing makeover, the Henna salon is an excellent option.

Entertainment Options

Red Sea Mall is not just about shopping; it’s a complete entertainment experience. Enjoy thrilling films at Vox Cinema, featuring 3D IMAX technology for an immersive viewing experience. With a wide range of snacks available, from sweet and salty popcorn to fast food, your movie night is sure to be enjoyable.

Events and Activities

The event hall at Red Sea Mall is a vibrant venue for various activities and celebrations. From national events to corporate gatherings, the lively ambiance ensures that every visit is unforgettable, filled with excitement and engagement.

Dining Selection

With over 80 restaurants and cafes, dining options abound at Red Sea Mall. Whether you're craving Chinese, Japanese, or delicious Italian pizza, there’s something for everyone. Coffee lovers will find a plethora of premium options, while the delightful aromas from Paul’s French café evoke the charm of Paris. Indulge in Godiva chocolates for a sweet finish to your meal.

Luxurious Accommodation

Adjacent to the mall is Elaf Red Sea, a boutique hotel that combines elegance with convenience. This hotel offers easy access to the Jeddah Waterfront, the airport, and the city center, making it an ideal choice for business and leisure travelers. With a focus on privacy and luxury, Elaf Red Sea is ISO 9001 certified, ensuring top-notch hospitality.

Family-Friendly Fun

Families can enjoy a variety of activities, from bowling and pool at the In10SO center—Saudi Arabia’s premier indoor karting venue—to thrilling virtual reality experiences at the Tech Zone. Kids can explore dedicated play areas like Sparkies and Adventura Arena, designed for ages one to eight, ensuring endless entertainment.

---

Souq Al Alawi

Dating back to 1716, Souq Al Alawi is one of the oldest and most vibrant markets in Historic Jeddah. Once a vital stop for pilgrims traveling to Makkah, this bustling open-air bazaar is filled with activity. Visitors can discover a variety of authentic Arabian jewelry, incense, traditional attire, spices, herbs, and remedies, making it a quintessential part of Jeddah's cultural landscape.

Location:
Historic Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Opening Hours:

• Saturday to Thursday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Friday: Closed

Souq Al Badu

Just steps away from Bab Makkah, Souq Al Badu is an open-air market rich in tradition. The inviting scent of incense fills the air, and this souq has gained fame for its exquisite women’s clothing, fabrics, scarves, and traditional handicrafts.

Location:
Near Bab Makkah, Historic Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Operating Hours:

• Saturday to Thursday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Friday: Closed

Souq Al Jamei

Located near Al Shafi'i Mosque, Souq Al Jamei is a symbol of community and tradition. Particularly lively during Ramadan, it offers a unique assortment of fabrics, women’s clothing, and accessories. Its close proximity to Souq Al Badu makes it a bustling meeting point for traders and visitors, fostering a vibrant exchange of goods and stories.

Location:
Near Al Shafi'i Mosque, Historic Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Opening Hours:

• Saturday to Thursday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Friday: Closed

Souq Al Nada

Souq Al Nada has long been a center for maritime trade and is celebrated in Arabic literature for its appeal. Today, the lively lanes are filled with shops offering local delicacies and custom tailoring, emphasizing its role as a vibrant symbol of Historic Jeddah's cultural and commercial heritage.

Location:
Historic Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Opening Hours:

• Saturday to Thursday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Friday: Closed

Souq Qabil

One of Jeddah’s oldest business districts, Souq Qabil dates back to the early 20th century. Known for its gold and currency exchange shops, it continues to thrive with traditional goods. Historic buildings constructed from coral stone stand as a testament to the district's rich cultural heritage.

Location:
Historic Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Opening Hours:

• Saturday to Thursday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Friday: Closed

In summary, Jeddah provides an exciting shopping landscape that combines contemporary retail with rich cultural heritage. With its variety of shopping venues, the city ensures an enjoyable experience for every visitor, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the best of Saudi Arabian commerce and culture.

Saudi Arabia’s newest national carrier, Riyadh Air, is gearing up for a bold entry into the vibrant and fast-growing Indian aviation market, with plans to launch flights to five key Indian cities in the summer of 2026.

The airline is targeting Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Chennai as its initial points of entry, signaling a strategic move into one of the world’s most dynamic air travel sectors.

While Delhi and Mumbai are natural choices as India’s political and commercial epicenters, Riyadh Air’s decision to include Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Chennai reflects a deeper understanding of India’s evolving economic landscape.

Bengaluru, known as the country’s IT powerhouse, boasts strong business links with the Middle East, while Hyderabad has rapidly emerged as another major technology hub. Chennai, the gateway to Tamil Nadu’s industrial heartland, rounds out this mix of traditional and emerging metropolitan regions.

However, the path to launching international flights in India is complex. Riyadh Air will need to secure traffic rights amidst a competitive bilateral framework, negotiate airport slots at packed Indian airports, and coordinate extensively with local aviation authorities.

Establishing ground handling, catering, and passenger services across five cities also demands substantial investment and partnerships on the ground.

The routes hold significant promise. The travel corridor between India and Saudi Arabia is buoyed by a spectrum of passengers – from the millions of Indians journeying for religious pilgrimages like Umrah and Hajj, to business travelers engaged in sectors such as IT services, construction, and oil and gas. 

The large Indian expatriate community in Saudi Arabia further guarantees steady demand for direct flights, often preferred over connecting flights through regional hubs like Dubai or Doha.

Yet Riyadh Air faces hurdles. Launching five routes simultaneously is an ambitious endeavor more commonly approached through a phased strategy.

The summer 2026 launch date aligns with the delivery of new Airbus A321-200 aircraft, ideal for these routes due to their range, passenger capacity, and efficiency for flights spanning 3.5 to 5 hours. Crafting flight schedules that cater specifically to Indian business travelers’ preferences will be critical for success.

A key challenge lies in navigating the limited bilateral air services agreements (BASA) between India and Saudi Arabia, which may restrict flight frequencies and capacity.

Furthermore, lasting success depends on Riyadh Air’s ability to offer competitive pricing while maintaining the high service standards expected of Gulf carriers.Indian travelers are notoriously price-conscious and quick to choose carriers delivering superior value and reliability.

If Riyadh Air can master these complexities, the airline’s bold five-city launch could serve as a robust foundation for broader expansion across South Asia, potentially encompassing other Indian cities and neighboring regional markets such as Thailand and Bangladesh.

With ample time for meticulous planning, Riyadh Air is poised to thoughtfully enter a challenging but opportunity-rich market, facing stiff competition from established carriers but bringing fresh capacity and options to one of the world’s fastest growing aviation corridors.

Brazilian aerospace giant Embraer has set an ambitious target to deliver 100 commercial aircraft annually by 2028, a milestone the company last reached in 2017, CEO Francisco Gomes Neto told Reuters. While the manufacturer has steadily increased deliveries since 2021 as part of its recovery from the pandemic-induced aviation crisis, persistent supply chain issues are expected to delay hitting the 100-unit mark until 2028.

The company forecasts delivering between 77 and 85 commercial jets in 2025, up from 73 in 2024, reflecting a roughly 10% year-on-year increase. Gomes Neto emphasized that 2026 will remain a challenging year production-wise due to ongoing bottlenecks, but he projects strong growth resuming in 2027, with 2028 marking the return to triple-digit deliveries.

Embraer continues to grapple with supply disruptions, including delays in fuselage parts sourced from Europe and GE Aerospace engines for its first-generation E1 jets. The situation has improved compared to last year’s engine supply delays for the next-generation E2 jets, yet the supply chain remains vulnerable.

Despite these obstacles, Embraer’s backlog of orders is solid and production slots are nearly fully booked through 2026 and 2027, extending partially into 2028. The recent firm order of 50 E195-E2 jets from U.S.-based low-cost carrier Avelo Airlines, marking Embraer's first U.S. deal for E2 jets, highlights robust demand. The company also secured orders earlier in 2025 from Japan’s ANA, Scandinavian Airlines SAS, and U.S. regional carrier SkyWest for a mix of E2 and E1 models.

Looking ahead, Gomes Neto noted that further E2 orders may be announced before year-end as multiple sales campaigns proceed, though new sales for the E1 fleet—which primarily serves the U.S. market—are not expected in 2025.

Regarding manufacturing strategy, Embraer currently assembles both E1 and E2 aircraft at its Sao Jose dos Campos plant in Brazil. Despite the U.S. imposing a 10% tariff on Brazilian-built aircraft, the company is not planning to establish a U.S. assembly line for E2 jets at this stage. Any consideration for a second assembly facility closer to major buyers would depend on a significant surge in orders, which is not yet evident.

“We prefer to present Embraer’s overall business case,” Gomes Neto explained, highlighting plans to purchase $21 billion from U.S. suppliers over the next five years while exporting $13 billion. He cautioned that establishing a new line would require substantial investment and risk increasing costs, potentially making the aircraft less competitive.

Embraer also maintains assembly lines for some executive jets in Florida and has proposed a $500 million U.S. production line for its C-390 military cargo aircraft, contingent on U.S. government procurement decisions.

Analysts view Embraer’s delivery target as ambitious but achievable if supply chain pressures ease and demand continues to grow, especially for regional jets that address evolving air travel needs. The company’s resilience in navigating post-pandemic recovery and maintaining a robust order book underscores its position as the world’s third-largest commercial aircraft manufacturer.

flydubai has announced a new strategic interline agreement with Romania’s national carrier, TAROM, expanding travel options by providing passengers seamless access to 15 destinations across TAROM’s network via Bucharest International Airport (OTP). This partnership enables flydubai customers to enjoy simplified travel itineraries, single-ticket bookings, and through-check-in of baggage to their final destination, enhancing convenience and connectivity.

Through the agreement, travelers flying between the UAE and Romania can now easily connect to key destinations within TAROM’s domestic and international network. These include major European cities such as Athens, Amsterdam, Brussels, Cluj-Napoca, Frankfurt, Madrid, and Paris, among others. This development supports greater trade, tourism, and cultural exchange between Dubai and Eastern and Central Europe.

flydubai operates double daily flights from Dubai International Airport (DXB) to Bucharest Henri Coandă International Airport and will be adding Iași as its second Romanian destination starting from 19 September 2025. The airline has steadily grown its presence in Romania since launching flights to Bucharest in 2012, responding to rising passenger demand.

The partnership not only broadens flydubai’s network but also reinforces Dubai’s role as a global aviation hub by linking the UAE to a wider range of European destinations through efficient connections with TAROM. Business Class passengers on flydubai enjoy lie-flat seats, international cuisine, and immersive entertainment, while Economy Class travelers benefit from comfortable reclined seats with adjustable leather headrests.

With a fleet of 93 modern Boeing 737 aircraft, flydubai serves over 135 destinations in 57 countries, having launched more than 100 previously underserved routes, demonstrating its commitment to expanding global connectivity and passenger choice.

TAROM's network, reachable through this agreement, includes approximately 28 destinations across 22 countries, covering vital European cities and regional hubs, making it a strategic partner for flydubai’s continued expansion into Eastern and Central Europe.

Overall, the strategic interline agreement between flydubai and TAROM offers travelers greater flexibility, convenience, and choice, allowing seamless access between the UAE, Romania, and many prominent European destinations. This collaboration is expected to boost business and leisure travel, supporting economic ties and tourism growth in the region.

Hong Kong is increasing its Air Passenger Departure Tax (APDT) for the first time in 22 years, effective October 1, 2025. The tax will rise from HK$120 (approximately $15) to HK$200 (about $25), a 67% increase. This tax applies to passengers aged 12 and above departing by air from Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA).

The increase was enacted through the Air Passenger Departure Tax (Amendment) Bill 2025, passed by the Legislative Council in May 2025. The government anticipates that the hike will generate around HK$1.6 billion in annual revenue.

To maintain Hong Kong's competitiveness as an international aviation hub, exemptions to the tax have been expanded. Previously, direct transit or connecting flight passengers who remained airside and those who arrived and departed on the same day were exempt. From October 1, 2025, new exemptions will include:

• Passengers who arrive and depart by aircraft within 48 hours.
• Passengers arriving by land or sea and departing by aircraft within 48 hours.

Passengers eligible under these new exemptions will still be charged the tax as part of their ticket but can claim a refund through a forthcoming online portal managed by the airport. This refund mechanism aims to encourage more transfer passengers, especially from the Greater Bay Area, enhancing HKIA’s role as a regional hub.

The APDT is typically absorbed into the price of the flight ticket, so passengers may not notice a significant fare difference when booking. Tickets purchased before October 1, 2025, will not be affected by the increased tax.

While some officials worry the increase could impact Hong Kong's attractiveness compared to regional competitors, others view the hike as reasonable and necessary for government revenue and airport infrastructure support.

Gulf Air, the national airline of the Kingdom of Bahrain, has taken a major step in its long-term fleet renewal by signing an agreement valued up to USD 4.6 billion with Boeing to acquire 18 Boeing 787 Dreamliners. Powered by GE Aerospace engines, the new aircraft will enhance Gulf Air’s operational efficiency, sustainability efforts, and passenger comfort.

The deal was formalized during the official visit of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, to Washington D.C., symbolizing the strengthening economic and commercial ties between Bahrain and the United States.

Khalid Taqi, Chairman of Gulf Air Group, emphasized the significance of the acquisition: “Adding 18 additional 787 Dreamliners an aircraft highly appreciated by our customers increases our passenger capacity by over 20%, marking a crucial milestone in our growth and modernization journey. This also aligns with our strategy to deliver a more fuel-efficient, environmentally friendly, and passenger-focused travel experience. 

Partnering with Boeing and GE Aerospace, global leaders in aviation innovation, affirms our confidence in advancing Gulf Air’s future. This collaboration also highlights the strong and enduring partnership between Bahrain and the USA.”

The Boeing 787 Dreamliner is celebrated worldwide for its fuel efficiency, cutting-edge technology, and superior passenger experience. It will play a central role in supporting Gulf Air’s long-haul operations, route expansion, and sustainability initiatives.

Stephanie Pope, President and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, commented, “We are proud to deepen our more than six-decade partnership with Gulf Air by delivering the 787 Dreamliner. This investment underscores Gulf Air’s commitment to innovation and sustainable growth, strengthening Bahrain’s status in the global aviation industry.”

In conjunction with the aircraft order, Gulf Air and Boeing signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to explore establishing maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) workshop capabilities in Bahrain. This initiative, still in its early stages, aims to localize MRO operations, develop local aviation talent, create jobs, and bring world-class services aligned with the latest technologies.

This strategic partnership further reinforces Gulf Air’s ambition to position Bahrain as a key aviation hub in the region, contributing to the Kingdom’s goals for economic diversification and enhanced global connectivity.