JEDDAH— Historic Jeddah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, turns into the beating heart of the Jeddah city, under the light of Ramadan lanterns. In a scene reflecting the historical value and emotional significance of Balad in the Historic Area, statistics revealed an exceptional influx of visitors, exceeding one million, in just the first week of Ramadan. Visitors formed a vibrant human tapestry stretching from Bab Makkah, the Makkah Gate, to the depths of the ancient alleyways. This massive influx was fueled by a rich calendar of events managed by Benchmark Company, transforming the squares and pathways into lively spaces. Amidst the sounds of vendors at Ramadan stalls and displays of traditional crafts, visitors found themselves on a journey through time, evoking details of traditional social life with a contemporary touch. Balad always comes alive during Ramadan nights. The area offers a rich blend of heritage and cultural activities that attracts residents and visitors seeking a spiritual atmosphere, reflecting the Hijazi identity. After Taraweeh prayers, narrow alleys turn into lively pathways illuminated by lanterns and traditional lighting. The lights highlight coral-stone buildings and intricately carved wooden windows known as rawasheen, some dating back more than five centuries.Historic museums and houses were also part of the spectacle, with sites like Beit Nassif, Beit Al Matbouli and Beit Zainal witnessing a large turnout of tourists and locals alike, eager to explore the unique architectural blend of coral stone and wooden latticework. Digital guidance and smart crowd management ensured smooth traffic flow despite the huge flow of visitors. Visitors also explore traditional markets, including Souq Al Alawi and Souq Qabil, which offer spices, oriental perfumes, textiles, and handcrafted goods. Balad hosts cultural and artistic events across its historic squares. Heritage cafés and restaurants further enrich the experience. They serve traditional dishes and Ramadan beverages that reflect the district’s diverse cultural legacy in an atmosphere marked by warmth and social connection. During Ramadan nights, Balad stands as a meeting point of history and modernity. It preserves its identity while reinforcing Jeddah’s place on the Kingdom’s cultural map.JEDDAH— Historic Jeddah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, turns into the beating heart of the Jeddah city, under the light of Ramadan lanterns. In a scene reflecting the historical value and emotional significance of Balad in the Historic Area, statistics revealed an exceptional influx of visitors, exceeding one million, in just the first week of Ramadan. Visitors formed a vibrant human tapestry stretching from Bab Makkah, the Makkah Gate, to the depths of the ancient alleyways. This massive influx was fueled by a rich calendar of events managed by Benchmark Company, transforming the squares and pathways into lively spaces. Amidst the sounds of vendors at Ramadan stalls and displays of traditional crafts, visitors found themselves on a journey through time, evoking details of traditional social life with a contemporary touch. Balad always comes alive during Ramadan nights. The area offers a rich blend of heritage and cultural activities that attracts residents and visitors seeking a spiritual atmosphere, reflecting the Hijazi identity. After Taraweeh prayers, narrow alleys turn into lively pathways illuminated by lanterns and traditional lighting. The lights highlight coral-stone buildings and intricately carved wooden windows known as rawasheen, some dating back more than five centuries.Historic museums and houses were also part of the spectacle, with sites like Beit Nassif, Beit Al Matbouli and Beit Zainal witnessing a large turnout of tourists and locals alike, eager to explore the unique architectural blend of coral stone and wooden latticework. Digital guidance and smart crowd management ensured smooth traffic flow despite the huge flow of visitors. Visitors also explore traditional markets, including Souq Al Alawi and Souq Qabil, which offer spices, oriental perfumes, textiles, and handcrafted goods. Balad hosts cultural and artistic events across its historic squares. Heritage cafés and restaurants further enrich the experience. They serve traditional dishes and Ramadan beverages that reflect the district’s diverse cultural legacy in an atmosphere marked by warmth and social connection. During Ramadan nights, Balad stands as a meeting point of history and modernity. It preserves its identity while reinforcing Jeddah’s place on the Kingdom’s cultural map.
