Shaped like a triangle, Al Sanabel is a largely residential district in the south-west of Jeddah that’s packed with restaurants, retail stores and mosques. It’s conveniently situated for pilgrims travelling between the Red Sea port and the Holy City of Mecca and is on the doorstep of Prince Abdullah al-Faisal Stadium.
Things to do in Al Sanabel
Dominating Al Sanabel are two main thoroughfares, which are lined with stores selling everything from electronics to building materials and groceries. There are plenty of eateries where you can dine throughout the day, including Shawarma and Burger Elk, Pasta Corner and Signature Juices. If you have a sweet tooth, don’t miss the delicious dessert buffet at Saad Eddin Sweets.
Be sure to spend a day exploring the sights of Jeddah, which centres around the historic Al-Balad district. Wander between the traditional homes constructed from coral and discover the cultural exhibits on display in the rooms of Al Nassif House. No visit to Jeddah is complete without a stroll along its waterfront Corniche, which connects the city’s beaches and the spectacular King Fahd’s Fountain.
Al Sanabel is an ideal base if you’re attending a game at Prince Abdullah al-Faisal Stadium, which was constructed in 1970 and can seat around 20,000 fans. It is the home ground of Al’Ittihad and Al-Ahli Saudi soccer clubs, both of which compete in the Saudi Professional League. Prince Abdullah al-Faisal Stadium forms part of a larger sporting complex that includes an indoor arena and an aquatics centre.
Getting around Al Sanabel
Al Sanabel is around 25 minutes’ drive from the centre of Jeddah and 45 minutes from King Abdulaziz International Airport. Taxis and rental vehicles are the most convenient way of getting to Al Sanabel and exploring the neighbourhood.