By Saleh Fareed

JEDDAH — The organizing committee for Jeddah Season has announced its first ever calendar of events. Scheduled from 05 Shawwal to 15 Dhu Al-Qa'dah 1440 H (June 8 – July 18), the events take place across five main destinations around Jeddah. More than 150 activities and events are planned, some of which will be held for the very first time in Saudi Arabia.

Announcing the calendar of events for Jeddah Season, Eng. Raed Abuzinada, general supervisor of the Jeddah Season, said: “Known as the Bride of the Red Sea, Jeddah has always been a destination for sea activities. With a history that spans over 3,000 years, Jeddah has a rich marine heritage and an ability to bring diverse cultures together.”

The initiative, which aims to turn the city into a popular tourist destination, reflects Jeddah’s history and its potential for holidaymakers, which is driven by the vision of the Kingdom’s leadership to enhance its competitiveness. It will also strengthen its status as the trade capital of Saudi Arabia, which has been a hub for merchant caravans for centuries.

The initiative aims to develop the infrastructure of tourism, empower Saudi youth and create new job opportunities while attracting direct investments to stimulate economic growth. It will also help change common stereotypes about Saudi Arabia and Jeddah, giving international visitors the chance to experience the Jeddah of today and the future.

Aiming to strengthen economic growth through tourism, Jeddah Season is a collaboration that brings together the Saudi Commission for Tourism & National Heritage (SCTH), The General Sports Authority (GSA), The General Entertainment Authority (GEA), The General Culture Authority (GCA), The Saudi Arabian Maritime Sports Federation, Jeddah Municipality, Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI), as well as Jeddah Season’s strategic partner, Saudi Arabian Airlines (Saudia).

Starting from Shawwal 5 (corresponding to June 8) for 41 days, residents and visitors to Jeddah can experience a calendar of entertainment, sport, culture and art activities suitable for all age groups and interests. With national youth at its core, and with prices supported by the state, it is sure to appeal to all.

Jeddah Season will be held in five main destinations, including Obhur, Historic Jeddah (Al Balad), Alhamra district, Jeddah Waterfront and King Abdullah Sports City.

These destinations will host a number of international and Arab celebrities, along with a series of competitions and festivals. Al Balad, for example, will host art workshops and galleries, displaying Hijazi art and crafts while on the Waterfront, a line-up of famous restaurants will present their delicious treats, while redefining shopping and spending quality time on the shores of the Red Sea. Children will be greeted by cartoon characters and art workshops designed to keep them busy.

The Alhamra district will turn into an illuminated sea destination with a wide range of entertainment options and interactive games, along with the Sea Theater, which will host several Arabic plays and international shows. In Obhur, a line-up of unique culinary experiences awaits visitors and a modern circus will also provide entertainment. A number of folk and art shows will keep visitors entertained, along with fishing competitions and the chance to experience a thrilling adventure on a submarine, a jet ski, or a chance to sail on the Red Sea.

The Boxing Week will be held at King Abdullah Sports City, the highlight of which will include a special fight featuring the Muslim boxing champion, Amir Khan with Sylvester Stallone from the Rocky movies attending the event.

A concert by the Korean band, Super Junior, will entertain the guests. Jeddah Season will conclude with an MTV music festival, featuring a number of international stars, with fireworks lighting the skies of Jeddah throughout the season.

Jeddah Season is a way to improve the tourism infrastructure of the city, with 25% of the projects for the season designed in a sustainable manner to serve residents for the long-term. Teams are working around the clock to implement the plans in time.

Eng. Abuzinada expressed his thanks and appreciation to all partners from the public and private sectors who have come together to present the most successful tourism season in Jeddah by highlighting its attractions. By reshaping the events sector and placing it at the forefront of the Kingdom’s economy, Jeddah will be part of the international community.

Jeddah Season is a part of Saudi Seasons, which is derived from the development goals of Vision 2030. It aims to enhance Saudi Arabia’s offering in art, culture, sport and entertainment, which in turn will support the quality of living in the Saudi Community and meet the goals of the Quality of Life Program, an ambitious element of Vision 2030.