If you’re thinking about taking a break and exploring Saudi Arabia, chances are the idea to rent a car with a driver in Riyadh has already crossed your mind. Smart move. While the capital is packed with history and modern marvels, there’s another city you absolutely shouldn’t overlook — Jeddah. Known as the gateway to Mecca, Jeddah is vibrant, rich in culture, and brimming with seaside charm that feels worlds apart from Riyadh’s desert vibes.
Here’s the thing: to truly soak in everything Jeddah has to offer, you need wheels. Public transport is still growing, and taxis can add up quickly. That’s where services like OneClickDrive come in — offering you easy access to reliable and affordable options to rent a car in Jeddah. Once you’ve got your ride sorted, here are the five unforgettable spots you simply can’t miss.
- Al-Balad – The Heart of Old Jeddah
Start your adventure in Al-Balad, the city’s historic district and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The narrow alleyways, coral-stone buildings, and wooden balconies (known as rawasheen) take you back centuries. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to ditch the GPS, park nearby, and just walk.
But getting there? That’s where having a rental car is gold. Whether you’re arriving early for the morning light or cruising in for the golden hour, you can beat the crowds and park on your own terms. Plus, there are countless local eateries nearby to grab a traditional mutabbaq or fresh samboosa.
- Jeddah Corniche – The City’s Crown Jewel
Stretching along the Red Sea for over 30 kilometers, the Jeddah Corniche is a coastal marvel. It’s perfect for sunset drives, morning strolls, or impromptu picnic stops. With your own car, you can explore it at your own pace, hopping from art installations to modern cafés, or even trying out the public beaches like Al Saif Beach.
Don’t forget to stop by the iconic King Fahd Fountain — the tallest of its kind in the world. It’s best viewed at night when the jet of water, lit by floodlights, becomes a glowing spectacle against the dark sea.
- Floating Mosque – Serenity at Sea
Officially named the Al-Rahma Mosque, this architectural gem is often called the Floating Mosque because it appears to be floating on the Red Sea during high tide. It’s one of the most photographed landmarks in Jeddah and visiting it is a deeply calming experience.
Located near the northern Corniche, getting there is easiest if you’ve rented a car. Taxis can be unpredictable, especially during prayer times or weekends. If opt for chauffeur service Jeddah visitors can easily get there early in the morning to enjoy a peaceful view before the tourist rush begins.
- Red Sea Mall – Retail Therapy With a View
You can’t visit Jeddah and not do a little shopping, right? The Red Sea Mall isn’t just about retail therapy — it’s a lifestyle hub with restaurants, cinemas, entertainment zones for kids, and even a hotel. It’s huge, so driving there is almost a necessity, especially if you’re planning to shop big or stay long.
With your own car, you’ll have the freedom to explore other nearby malls too, like Mall of Arabia or the chic Le Prestige. You’re not tied down by taxi wait times or meter anxiety — a huge plus.
- King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC) – A Day Trip Worth the Drive
Alright, this one’s a bit outside Jeddah, but if you’re renting a car, why not go big? KAEC is about an hour and a half north of the city and is a futuristic development filled with clean beaches, golf courses, and even go-karting tracks. The vibe is quiet, organized, and perfect for a weekend escape.
You won’t find much in the way of public transport here, so this is where your decision to rent a car really pays off. Pack snacks, a swimsuit, and a good playlist — it’s a scenic drive with plenty of places to stop and take in the desert-meets-sea landscape.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re starting your journey in Riyadh and planning to explore the western coast or heading straight into the cultural heart of Jeddah, having a car opens up a completely different level of freedom and flexibility. Platforms like OneClickDrive make it incredibly easy to compare and book rentals that suit your needs, whether it’s a fuel-efficient compact or a luxury SUV fit for a Corniche cruise.
So next time you think to rent a car in Riyadh, consider adding Jeddah to your travel plans too. Because in this city, some of the best experiences begin with the turn of a key and the open road ahead.
