|
Literally meaning 'The Town', Al Balad is a historical
area located in the city of Jeddah
in Saudi Arabia. One of the popular tourist
destinations in Saudi Arabia, Jeddah is also the second largest city in the
country. Al Balad is reminiscent of the towns described in the captivating
Arabian Nights tales that have been part of almost every kid's childhood. It is
a truly fascinating place to visit on your Saudi
Arabia tour. The history of Saudi Arabia reveals that Al Balad in
Jeddah was a fishing village about 2,500 years ago. It was here that the fishermen
tribes of Quda'a had first settled down.
In due course, this little town has grown into a
cosmopolitan city that effortlessly blends Arabic traditionalism and Western sumptuousness.
Today, it is home to some of the most important Saudi establishments, and is the
commercial hub of the country.
An extremely popular attraction
of Saudi Arabia, Al Balad is a paradise for shoppers. It may not be in the
same league as other hugely popular shopping neighborhoods in the Western world;
nonetheless, it is the best place for shopping
in Saudi Arabia. Al Balad, Jeddah is a huge marketplace that features
traditional souqs and street vendors along with upmarket shopping centers and
retail outlets. Tourists can shop for almost all sorts of products in this little
city - from traditional handicrafts to international brands. Al Balad,
Jeddah is made up of various small specialized markets. The Al Nada Souq
specializes in gold and silver ornaments from the African, Arabian and Asian stables.
Al Jamia Souq is a textile market where you can buy the rarest of fabrics.
Gebel Street Souq is the most popular one in Al Balad, Jeddah.
This market sells a wide assortment of items including electronics, perfumes,
spices, dates, honey and other household goods. Al Alawi Souq is the biggest
amongst all markets in Al Balad.  The
upscale shopping centers in Al Balad house retail outlets of the best of international
brands. You can shop for clothes, footwear, accessories, consumer articles, electronics,
et al in these places. There are various food and beverage outlets located
around the markets. As you wade through Al Balad, the aroma of spices and other
eateries will captivate your senses, alluring you for an encore.
| 
