Jeddah Islamic Port boasts three spruced-up terminals that can handle those massive Quantum Class ships.

For other Saudi Arabia Cruise destinations check out our Saudi Arabia Cruise Ship Port Guide page.

You’ll spot local Saudi eateries, cool cultural exhibits, and all the basics you need – ATMs for cash and Wi-Fi to post those vacation pics.

Need to get to the airport? Grab a taxi for about 130-170 SAR and you’ll be there in 20 minutes.

MSC Cruises and AROYA run trips that showcase Saudi Arabia and nearby countries.

While you’re here, don’t miss checking out the UNESCO heritage site Al-Balad or snorkeling in the Red Sea.

Just remember to pack modest clothes and brush up on Saudi customs – they do things a bit differently here!

Map of Jeddah Islamic Port

Terminal Facilities and Passenger Amenities

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Jeddah Islamic Port boasts three major terminal upgrades that are boosting its cruise tourism game. The facilities have gotten a serious makeover to handle those massive Quantum Class ships, with stronger bollards and better fenders to make docking smoother.

Once you step off the ship, you’ll walk into a cool cultural center that shows off Jeddah’s rich history and Saudi traditions. Feeling hungry? Grab some authentic local food at the Saudi restaurants before hitting up the shopping areas with their malls and movie theaters. If you’re looking to unwind, there are swimming pools, theaters, and tons of entertainment options to keep you busy.

Right now, the temporary terminal (revamped back in 2021) handles about 2,500 passengers at a time, but they’re planning something much fancier for 2030.

Getting to and From Jeddah Islamic Port

Getting Around Jeddah Islamic Port

Need to get to and from the port? No sweat. Taxis will zip you from the airport to the port in about 20 minutes, but they’ll cost you 130-170 SAR. If you’re driving yourself, you’ll save a ton – just 5-8 SAR.

Once you’re in town, you’ve got options. The Haramain High Speed Train is perfect for a quick trip to Mecca – only 47 minutes! Around Jeddah, grab an Uber or Careem, or hop on the public buses that run all over the city. Many cruise companies run their own shuttles to popular spots too. And good old taxis are always hanging around when you need a direct ride to the malls or historical sites.

Cruise Lines and Ships Serving the Port

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Jeddah Islamic Port stands as the bustling center of Saudi Arabia’s growing cruise scene. MSC Cruises has a strong foothold here with special docking privileges until 2026, and they’ve been running tons of roundtrip journeys on their impressive MSC Bellissima.

If you’re looking for something with local flavor, AROYA Cruises offers trips that showcase the rich cultures of Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Jordan. The port can handle massive ships up to 360 meters long, and you can expect top-notch luxury amenities no matter which cruise line you choose.

Top Shore Excursions From Jeddah

Shore Excursions You Shouldn’t Miss in Jeddah

Stepping off your cruise at Jeddah Islamic Port, you’ll find amazing adventures right around the corner. Wander through UNESCO-listed Al-Balad and check out those cool coral buildings, or duck into the 13th-century Al Shafei Mosque to see some seriously impressive woodwork.

Love the outdoors? Grab a snorkel and dive into the Red Sea’s colorful reefs, or jump in a 4×4 for a desert safari to the crazy rock formations at Moon Valley. Food more your thing? Tag along on a food tour to sample proper Saudi coffee, sweet dates, and real Hijazi dishes the locals love.

Want something more personal? Book a private tour with guides who speak your language, or go all out with a fancy yacht trip along Jeddah’s gorgeous coastline.

See what’s on offer from the Port of Yanbu for a different Saudi Arabia Cruise destination.

Practical Information for Cruise Travelers

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Planning Your Jeddah Cruise Stop

Getting ready for Jeddah? Here’s what you need to know about the cruise terminal and local rules. The terminal handles big Quantum Class ships and comes equipped with prayer spaces, bathrooms, and good accessibility options.

You’ll have no trouble finding ATMs, places to exchange money, and free Wi-Fi throughout. Just keep in mind that Saudi laws are strict – no alcohol allowed, modest dress expected, and businesses close during prayer times. If you’re from a GCC country, you won’t need a visa, while folks from 49 other countries can apply for eVisas online.

Getting around is pretty straightforward – grab a taxi or hop on a shuttle to reach downtown Jeddah (about 15 minutes away) or head to the airport (around 90 minutes).

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Prayer Facilities Available During Hajj Season for Transit Passengers?

Yes, don’t worry – prayer facilities aren’t just some afterthought! You’ll find prayer spaces open around the clock throughout all transit areas during Hajj season. There are comfortable, dedicated spots where you can take a moment for spiritual connection while you’re waiting for your next flight. Perfect for keeping up with your prayers even during travel.

How Does AROYA Compare to International Cruise Ships in Sustainability Features?

AROYA hasn’t quite caught up to international cruise lines when it comes to sustainability. They’re dragging their feet on LNG adoption, don’t have as many cool tech innovations, and aren’t really clear about their emission goals. Meanwhile, the big global players have already promised to hit net-zero by 2050.

What Cultural Sensitivities Should Western Tourists Observe When Disembarking?

When you hop off the ship, remember to dress modestly with loose clothes that cover you up nicely. Skip the PDA – holding hands or kissing in public isn’t cool here. Keep an ear out for prayer calls and be respectful when they happen. Always use your right hand for eating, taking stuff, or shaking hands – the left hand is considered unclean. Don’t snap photos of mosques or religious spots without asking first, and save the booze for international waters. These little gestures go a long way with locals!

Can Non-Saudi Citizens Visit the Private Island Stopovers Independently?

Unfortunately, non-Saudi citizens can’t just pop over to the private islands on their own. These spots are only accessible through Aroya Cruises – there’s no way to catch a public ferry or book your own trip there. If you want to check out these islands, you’ll need to hop on board with the cruise.

Are There Ship-To-Shore Medical Evacuation Services for Emergency Situations?

Yes! We offer round-the-clock emergency medical evacuations in Jeddah that cover ship-to-shore situations. You can be airlifted by helicopter or private jet depending on your needs, and our medical teams can transform these aircraft into flying intensive care units when the situation calls for it.

Thinking about something different? Check out the cruises leaving from King Abdulaziz Port (Dammam).