Al-Balad, Jeddah
Al-Balad (Arabic: البلد), also known as Jeddah Historic District (Arabic: جدة التاريخية), is the historical area of Jeddah, the second largest city of Saudi Arabia. Al-Balad can literally be translated to "The Town." Al-Balad is the historic center of the City of Jeddah.
| Historic Jeddah, the Gate to Makkah | |
|---|---|
Wordmark | |
Historic Jeddah, the Gate to Makkah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site | |
Location within Saudi Arabia | |
| General information | |
| Town or city | Jeddah, Makkah Region |
| Country | Saudi Arabia |
| Coordinates | 21°29′N 39°11′E |
| Website | |
| Official Website | |
UNESCO World Heritage Site | |
| Official name | Historic Jeddah, the Gate to Makkah |
| Type | Cultural |
| Criteria | ii, iv, vi |
| Designated | 2014 (38th session) |
| Reference no. | 1361 |
| Region | the Arab States |
Traditional Hijazi houses are characterized by their wooden Roshan (Arabic: روشان) windows and balconies, which are similar to the Mashrabiya found in Egypt, Iraq and other countries, and to the Gallarija found in Malta (which is a descendant of the Muxrabija).
In May 2019, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman announced a multi-billion dollar restoration of 56 historical building in Al-Balad. The first stage of the restoration is worth $13.3 million.
In October 2023 and in line with Saudi Vision 2030, The Saudi Public Investment Fund announced Al Balad Development Company, which aims to transform Historic Jeddah into a global tourist destination.