Category: Featured

  • Best Jeddah Corniche restaurants with stunning sea views

    Best Jeddah Corniche restaurants with stunning sea views

    Jeddah in Saudi Arabia is best known for its unique blend of history and modernism โ€“ its grand mosques and soaring skyscrapers, its bustling souks and sleek shopping malls.

    Yet the city’s charm isn’t confined to the streets and city squares, instead spilling out onto its magnificent coastline โ€“ the Jeddah Corniche.

    With more than 30 kilometers of beautifully landscaped waterfront, this is a destination that offers something for everyone.

    It’s the restaurants lining the Corniche that truly steal the show, providing patrons with the ultimate dining experience โ€“ a symphony of sights, sounds, and tastes that make each meal a culinary adventure.

    Whether you’re feasting on local Saudi cuisine, indulging in international gourmet dishes, or sampling delicacies from different regions of the Middle East, every restaurant offers a unique perspective of the Corniche’s beautiful seascapes.

    The view is breathtaking, with the endless Red Sea stretching out to meet the horizon, the sky shifting colours from bright azure to dusky orange, the skyscrapers silhouetted against the setting sun โ€“ all while the Corniche itself transforms from a serene promenade to a vibrant, pulsating nighttime hotspot.

    It’s time to dive in and explore the best restaurants with a view in Jeddah. Grab a table, order your meal, and soak in the stunning panorama that the Corniche has to offer.

    1. Nobu Jeddah

    Nobu Jeddah outdoor terrace with sea views

    Nobu Jeddah’s luxurious outdoor terrace perfectly combines the renowned restaurant’s top-notch dining with unparalleled views of the Corniche. The circular dining area โ€“ near to the Mรถvenpick Jeddah Al Nawras resort โ€“ provides each guest with unobstructed sights of the Red Sea and the vibrant Jeddah skyline.

    In the winter months, this is the place where culinary magic happens under the stars. Here, you’ll find iconic dishes such as the Black Cod with Miso served against the backdrop of the tranquil sea and the soft murmur of waves.

    The Omakase menu, a chef’s special multi-course meal, becomes a sensory journey as you savor delicately crafted sushi, tantalizing tempura, and other Japanese fusion delights, all while soaking in the view.

    The terrace’s over-the-sea position ensures an undisturbed view of the Corniche, becoming a stage for Jeddah’s day-to-night transformation as the sky shifts from a bright azure to a dusky orange.


    2. Andalusia Restaurant

    Andalusia Restaurant at Jeddah’s Park Hyatt expertly serves up a diverse array of flavours from Asian, Arabic, and Mediterranean cuisines, but it’s the splendid setting that takes dining here to another level.

    Located near the waterfront, Andalusia promises an intimate culinary experience with the serene backdrop of Jeddah Corniche, with the restaurant’s terrace offering a prime location for soaking in the tranquil sea views.

    Whether you’re beginning your day with a hearty breakfast overlooking the sun-dappled sea or ending it with a candle-lit dinner under the starry sky, Andalusia’s terrace is the perfect place to take in the views during all occasions.

    Pair your meal with the breathtaking view of the Corniche, and you have an unmatched dining experience that goes beyond the food โ€“ a moment of relaxation and indulgence amidst the bustle of Jeddah.


    3. Habsburg

    Habsburg at the Rosewood in Al Shatie district stands out in Jeddah’s culinary scene for its impressive buffet spread, served throughout the day from breakfast to dinner. The open, welcoming atmosphere encourages guests to explore a bounty of dishes hailing from Europe, the Middle East, and the Far East.

    You might begin your meal with the subtle flavors of a French cheese platter, shift to the aromatic spices of a Middle Eastern kebab, and then finish with the delicate simplicity of a Far Eastern sushi roll. It’s this variety and authenticity that truly sets the Habsburg dining experience apart.

    But Habsburg’s appeal doesn’t end with the food. The restaurant’s location overlooking the Corniche and Red Sea adds a visual feast to your dining experience. The vast, unhindered views of the waterfront, available from any corner of the restaurant, serve as a serene backdrop to your culinary experience whatever time of day.

    Whether you’re savouring breakfast as the morning sun illuminates the sea, enjoying lunch amidst the Corniche’s midday warmth, or immersing yourself in a dinner buffet as the sunset paints the sky, Habsburg offers an ever-changing yet consistently stunning view.


    4. Aromi Restaurant

    The Aromi Restaurant at Waldorf Astoria Jeddah offers Venetian-inspired Italian cuisine in Saudi Arabia with breathtaking views of the Jeddah waterfront. This fine dining restaurant is an institution in the area, beloved by locals and visitors alike, making it a must-visit destination on the Jeddah Corniche.

    The authentic Italian menu, fine-tuned and perfected over 80 years, promises a tantalizing experience for your palate. From handcrafted pastas to decadent risottos and exquisite seafood dishes, every item on the menu is a testament to the flavours and culinary finesse of Italy.

    The restaurant’s sweeping views of the Red Sea elevate the dining experience and encapsulate the charm of the Jeddah waterfront, making it an exceptional venue for special occasions or a sophisticated night out.

    Aromi presents an elegant yet relaxed atmosphere, allowing you to immerse yourself in the high-quality Italian cuisine while soaking in the stunning seaside panorama.


    5. Kaia

    As the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky with brilliant hues, the city’s energy shifts, making Kaia at the Shangri-La Jeddah the place to be as night falls for spectacular views and top beats.

    The restaurant’s menu, curated by Lima-born Chef Bruno Santa Cruz, navigates the culinary landscapes of the Pacific Rim, from Peru to Hawaii, and from Japan to Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea shores.

    As you dine under the mesmerizing colors of the sunset and into the twinkling stars of the night, each dish perfectly complements the spectacular views and vibrant ambiance.

    The heart of Kaia’s appeal lies not only in its picturesque views or delectable cuisine, but also in its mocktails crafted by a team of skilled mixologists. Each one is a tribute to the Pacific Rim, created with an intriguing blend of ingredients that captures the essence of the region.

    Whether it’s a refreshing sip as the sun dips into the horizon, or a spirited toast to the starlit night, these delightful concoctions add an extra sparkle to your experience.

  • Where to buy a Christmas tree in Dubai

    Where to buy a Christmas tree in Dubai

    Are you planning on rockin’ around the Christmas tree in Dubai this December?

    There might not be any snow in sight, but there’s nothing to stop you getting into the festive spirit by decking the halls with all the decorations you can get your hands on.

    Here are the top places to buy the perfect Christmas tree in Dubai this December โ€“ whether you’re going for artificial or opting for the real thing.

    Does Dubai celebrate Christmas?

    Emirati men walk past Christmas decorations in a mall in Dubai

    Yes! While the United Arab Emirates is a predominantly Muslim country, many other religious holidays and festivals are widely celebrated.

    At Christmas, you’ll find decorations and trees all over the city โ€“ from hotels to shopping malls โ€“ and special brunch deals running with a festive theme.

    It’s even possible to order a takeaway turkey on Christmas Day from top restaurants right to your table. Even better, there’s no need to deal with chilly temperatures โ€“ December brings dreamy averages of 26C.

    There’s nothing quite like a mince pie on the balcony in the sunshine.


    Can you buy a Christmas tree in Dubai?

    White striped Christmas bauble hanging on an illuminated tree

    Of course. Major stores across Dubai sell Christmas trees โ€“ both real and artificial โ€“ and there are plenty of delivery options too if you don’t fancy trekking out.

    Some services will even assemble the tree in your living room while you sit back and listen to a bit of Mariah Carey and scoff Christmas treats. Or if you’re up for a major splurge, bring in a dedicated Christmas decorator to turn your apartment into a winter wonderland.

    How’s that for a taste of Lapland luxury?


    Where can I buy a real Christmas tree in Dubai?

    Dubai might be miles from the forests of Norway, but don’t fret โ€“ you can still pick up a real Christmas tree, more easily than you might ever imagine.

    Here are some of the top places to buy a real Christmas tree in Dubai:

    Real Christmas trees at ACE Hardware in Dubai

    ACE Hardware sells pretty much everything you might ever need โ€“ from tools to pools โ€“ so it’s little surprise that this is one of the top shops in Dubai to pick up a Christmas tree. You’ll find resplendent decorations (think tinsel in every colour imaginable and baubles galore) and festive trinkets at outlets across the city including Dubai Festival City, Ibn Battuta Mall and Dubai. Motor City. Just make sure to call the store before heading out, because real trees can sell out quickly.

    Christmas Trees UAE

    It’s all in the name for this family business. Christmas Trees UAE imports fresh Fraser Firs direct from Canada to the UAE, with most measuring between five and eight feet. The branches are thick with pine needles, and your apartment will quickly fill up with that unmistakably festive scent. Drop the team an email at balsamfirtrees@hotmail.com from late November, and you can either collect from Jumeirah Beach Road or opt for home delivery.

    Kibsons Dubai Christmas tree delivery

    There’s no need to leave the sofa to get a tree from Kibsons โ€“ just pick one online and the delivery elves will wing it all the way to your doorstep. Pre-order from a wide selection of Nordmann firs, catering to every room โ€“ whether you’re looking for something small in the corner or a grand eight-foot behemoth to outdo the neighbours.


    Where can I buy an artificial Christmas tree in Dubai?

    Artificial Christmas tree with snowman decoration

    Not keen on pine needles falling on the floor? No problem. There are plenty of places to buy an artificial Christmas tree in Dubai โ€“ or even have one delivered direct to your door.

    There’s no need to break the bank to get in the festive mood either, with some options coming in at less than Dhs100.

    Here are some of the top places to buy an artificial Christmas tree in Dubai:

    Christmas trees at Daiso in Dubai

    Japanese bargain basement Daiso has several branches in Dubai, including at Nakheel Mall, in Al Barsha and The Dubai Mall. As well as hundreds of sparkling Christmas decorations โ€“ including baubles, tinsel and every imaginable miniature festive figurine โ€“ you’ll find lots of tree options in a wide range of colours, and at extremely reasonable prices.

    IKEA Christmas trees in Dubai

    IKEA is a classic choice to pick up some Swedish-inspired Christmas items. At branches including Festival Plaza and Festival City, you can deck the halls with wintery magic. Give your windows a charming glow with festive lighting, or explore new traditions with a Scandinavian look inspired by nostalgia and nature.

    Marks and Spencer Christmas in Dubai

    In addition to a buffet’s worth of classic Christmas food and nibbles (remember to pick up those mince pies and gold chocolate coins), Marks and Spencer stocks a small range of artificial trees in a variety of sizes. As with everything in this British store, the fake firs on offer are top quality with bushy branches โ€“ the slightly higher price is more than worth it.

    Christmas trees at Dubai Waitrose

    Dubai has several huge branches of Waitrose, including at The Dubai Mall and Nakheel Mall on the Palm. This is another store that stocks a wide range of Christmas food, as well as artificial trees and beautiful baubles. Check out the selection and sprinkle some festive fun across your home โ€“ even better, they deliver direct to your doorstep.


    Can I get a Christmas tree delivered in Dubai?

    Snow on Christmas tree

    You can get almost anything delivered in Dubai, from takeaways to prescriptions and even fuel. So it’s little surprise that Santa will happily pull up his sleigh at your door with a fresh fir in tow.

    Plenty of options on this list offer Christmas tree delivery in Dubai โ€“ try Christmas Trees UAE or Kibsons for real options, or if you’re going artificial then IKEA is always a safe bet.

  • Saudi Arabia visit visa extended to 90 days

    Saudi Arabia visit visa extended to 90 days

    Saudi Arabia has officially extended its visit visa duration, allowing tourists travelling to the Kingdom to stay for up to three months at a time.

    Single-entry visas were previously valid for 30 days, with multi-entry visas valid for 90 days maximum.

    That means visitors will now have three times as long to explore Saudi Arabia โ€“ whether by visiting the capital Riyadh, iconic heritage sites including AlUla or checking out some of the country’s many entertainment options.

    Changes have also been made to transit visas, with holders now allowed to stay for 96 hours extra without additional fees.

    The visit visa extension follows a series of updates to visas for residents of the GCC, UK, US and EU as the Kingdom continues to make travel easier for tourists and visitors.

    GCC residents are now able to easily apply for a Saudi e-visa, while those living in the UK, US and EU can travel to Saudi Arabia more easily.