JEDDAH: In the holy month of Ramadan, Jeddah鈥檚 historic Al-Balad district has come alive with a unique blend of culture, traditional crafts and authentic delicacies.
Its festival running throughout the month also highlights the historical significance of Al-Balad, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The offerings include workshops in Arabic calligraphy, pottery, and other crafts showcasing the artistic legacy of the Hijaz region.
Children can enjoy interactive entertainment designed as an introduction to 海角直播鈥檚 culture and heritage.
During a tour, Arab News spoke to several visitors who outlined the charms of the old city.
Salem Al-Harthi, a Saudi citizen, expressed his admiration for Al-Balad, calling it an 鈥渦nparalleled destination鈥 during Ramadan.
鈥淭he historic charm and festive energy here make it the perfect place to experience the essence of the holy month,鈥 he said.
Hamad Al-Shemmari from Hail, who is visiting to perform Umrah with his family, shared his excitement: 鈥淭hese narrow alleys and winding streets transport us to another era.
鈥淭he ambiance, the food, everything about this place makes Ramadan special.鈥
First-time visitor Mahmoud Al-Nori from Syria was captivated by the area鈥檚 architectural beauty and vibrancy. 鈥淚 had heard about Jeddah鈥檚 charm but experiencing it in Ramadan is something else.
鈥淥ne night here is simply not enough to take it all in.鈥
One of the festival鈥檚 most beloved attractions is its street food. After evening prayers, hundreds of vendors set up stalls, wearing traditional attire and singing folk songs to entice visitors to sample local delicacies.
Among them is Muath Al-Bukiri, a young entrepreneur who, along with his friends, launched a food stall serving balila (boiled chickpeas) and chopped liver.
鈥淲e wanted to do something meaningful this Ramadan, and this has been an amazing experience,鈥 he said, noting the popularity of these dishes among young and old.
Al-Balad has become a hub for families looking to celebrate Ramadan in an authentic setting.
Abdulaziz Al-Ahmadi, 54, enjoys bringing his family to stroll through the historic streets, sharing stories of the past. 鈥淭his place connects us to our roots.
鈥淚t鈥檚 where our ancestors lived, and now, we experience Ramadan in the same streets they once did.鈥
A popular gathering spot is Al-Hazazi Yard, where dozens of traditional food stalls create a lively evening scene. Residents from across Jeddah gather in what has become an annual tradition to relish the festive atmosphere.
Mohammed bin Zagir told Arab News: 鈥淰isiting Al-Balad to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of families, the delicious flavors of kebdah and balila, and the cool evening breeze has become an annual tradition for my family and me.
鈥淗ere, you can truly experience the essence of Ramadan, in the very place where our ancestors once lived. It takes us back in time, allowing us to witness the transformation we live in today from every perspective.鈥
The Ramadan season in historic Jeddah plays a crucial role in supporting local entrepreneurs and artisans.
Heritage markets provide small and medium businesses with a platform to showcase their crafts, from handmade goods to culinary specialties.
Under the supervision of the Historic Jeddah District Program and the Ministry of Culture, the Ramadan festival continues to gain in popularity, reportedly drawing more than a million visitors in its first week.
