The Historical Path of Hajj
Since Caliph Othman Bin Affan designated the port of Jeddah as the sea gateway for pilgrims to Mecca, a great spiritual journey has begun, with Jeddah as its starting point.
Alarbaien Lake (2024/2024) by Jeddah Historic District / Ministry of CultureUNESCO World Heritage
For centuries, the port of Bunt received ships carrying pilgrims from around the world, beginning their journey through the Hijaz via Bab al-Sabba, west of Jeddah. Here, the journey of faith toward the Grand Mosque commenced.
This route traces the steps of the earliest pilgrims, passing through stations that became etched in memory:
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From the Qabel Market, once vibrant with life and culture and the Akash and Al Mimar Mosques, which welcomed worshippers from every corner of the city to the Shonah, which safeguarded the city's provisions, and the Badib Ribat, a haven for widows.
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As the journey unfolds, the pilgrims' steps accelerate toward Alawi Market, and from there to the Maghribi Mosque, where they immerse themselves in the spirit of the place.
Bab makkah (2023/2024) by Jeddah Historic District / Ministry of CultureUNESCO World Heritage
Finally, they arrive at Bab Makkah, the historic eastern gate leading to the Makkah Road. Here, the intention of ihram, or prohibition, is renewed, and the grand pilgrimage toward the Grand Mosque begins.
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Qabel Street Market
One of Jeddah's most important and well-known historical markets dating back to 1337 AH (1918-1919), Qabel Street lies in the Yaman District, stretching from King Abdulaziz Street in the area formerly known as Bab Al Sabba, to Al Alawi Market.
Interior Shona (2023/2024) by Jeddah Historic District / Ministry of CultureUNESCO World Heritage
The market, named after Sulayman Qabel, who purchased the land and named it after his family, was built atop part of the ruins of Al Shonah, a historic site once used for storing goods. Since then, Qabel Street has remained one of Jeddah's most prominent and bustling streets.
Preserving a Legacy (2023/2024) by Jeddah Historic District / Ministry of CultureUNESCO World Heritage
Al Shonah
The site of Al Shonah stands as a witness to the major transformations Jeddah has undergone over the centuries. It was not merely part of the city’s architectural heritage, but a multifunctional facility reflecting the changes in trade, security, and daily life.
In the early 20th century, Al-Shuna served as a private warehouse for merchants, storing goods imported from around the world, such as spices, textiles, and foodstuffs. It was later converted into a government warehouse storing grain, wood, and even ammunition.
Historical evidence suggests that the fortified section of Al-Shuna dates to the late Mamluk period (15th-16th centuries) and was rebuilt during the reign of Sultan Al-Ghuri in response to Portuguese naval threats along the Red Sea coast.
Akash Mosque
Located in one of the alleys of Al Mazloum neighborhood, along the path leading to Qabel Street Market, Akash Mosque exudes the aroma of the past and the sounds of the present.
The Mihrab and Minbar of Akash Mosque in Jeddah (2024)UNESCO World Heritage
Built by the merchant Akash Abaza, the mosque has borne his name ever since. Earliest records and inscriptions indicate it has stood 1722, making it one of the oldest surviving mosques in the area.
Interior of Akash Mosque Prayer Hall in Jeddah (2024) by Jeddah Historic District / Ministry of CultureUNESCO World Heritage
Its first renovation occurred in 1863, preserving its status among old Jeddah's landmarks. In 1960, it was fully rebuilt using reinforced concrete in a modern architectural style, raising its floors above street level to protect against rainwater and erosion.
Ornate Ceiling and Arches of Akash Mosque (2024) by Jeddah Historic District / Ministry of CultureUNESCO World Heritage
Today, Akash Mosque continues to serve as a place of worship and reflection, where stories are held within its silent walls, and history continues to live.
Ribat Badib Restoration Project in Historic Jeddah (2024) by Jeddah Historic District / Ministry of CultureUNESCO World Heritage
Ribat Badib
In the northwest corner of historic Jeddah, Ribat Badib stands quietly, yet carries stories spanning more than a century. Built in the latter half of the 19th century, it reflects the city’s spirit of social cohesion.
Archway and Interior Construction at Ribat Badib Restoration Site (2024) by Jeddah Historic District / Ministry of CultureUNESCO World Heritage
Originally, Ribats were defensive outposts housing warriors at city frontiers. Over time, they evolved into institutions of care and service, especially for pilgrims and the vulnerable. Ribat Badib exemplifies this transition.
Interior Room Detail and Traditional Wooden Architecture at Ribat Badib (2024) by Jeddah Historic District / Ministry of CultureUNESCO World Heritage
In keeping with local traditions, it became a sanctuary of unmarried women or women with children, providing them with a safe and tranquil space.
Courtyard Facade at Ribat Badib (2024) by Jeddah Historic District / Ministry of CultureUNESCO World Heritage
During archaeological excavations, a sophisticated underground water system was uncovered, consisting of canals, tanks, and wells used for drinking, cooking, and hygiene. Thousands of artifacts were also found, including clay figurines, coins, pottery pipes, and daily tools.
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Al Mimar Mosque
Situated at the intersection of Al-Mazloum and Al-Yaman neighborhoods, Al Mimar Mosque remains one of the oldest religious landmarks in historic Jeddah. A stone plaque above the mihrab dates its construction to 1682, a symbol of an era rich in urban and cultural transformation.
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More than a place of prayer, the mosque served as a neighborhood hub, attracting residents, merchants, and visitors, especially given its proximity to the vibrant Alawi Market.
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Despite the passage of time, Al Mimar Mosque has preserved its architectural dignity and simplicity, standing as a reminder that every corner of Jeddah tells an enduring story.
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Al Alawi Market
Stretching across a wide area of historic Jeddah, Alawi Market is among the city’s oldest and most iconic popular markets. Named after Abu Bakr bin Ahmed Al Alawi Al Jeddawi, it has long been a hub for trade and community life.
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Before the early 20th century, it was difficult to access due to a lack of direct roads. That changed in 1916 with the opening of Qabel Street, which connected the market to the port, boosting its commercial prominence and accessibility.
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To this day, the market retains its original character, with narrow alleys and tightly packed shops where the past continues to meet the present in everyday life.
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Al Maghribi Mosque:
Located in the Al Mazloum neighborhood, Al Maghribi Mosque was built in 1263 AH (1847 AD) by Sheikh Muhammad bin Ibrahim Al Maghribi. Spacious and welcoming, it remains one of the key mosques where Friday prayers are held.
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Over time, it became a focal point for the community, especially during religious events and weekly gatherings. Today, Al Maghribi Mosque still stands in its original location, offering visitors a glimpse into the city’s spiritual and social history.
Bab makkah (2023/2024) by Jeddah Historic District / Ministry of CultureUNESCO World Heritage
Bab Makkah
On Jeddah’s eastern wall stood Bab Makkah, the gate through which travelers and pilgrims began their sacred journey toward Mecca. More than just an entryway, it was a gateway to faith and transformation.
Historically, it was the only eastern gate, and due to its large scale and robust design, it became one of the city’s most prominent entrances.
The structure featured three main arches for pedestrian and goods traffic, flanked by two towers used for monitoring movement in and out of the city. Its functional design reflected its importance in regulating city life and trade.
Though the original gate no longer exists, a symbolic sculpture now marks the site, honoring the legacy of a gateway that once welcomed thousands of pilgrims and merchants.
Public Spaces, Roads, and Lagoon Lake (2023/2024) by Jeddah Historic District / Ministry of CultureUNESCO World Heritage
Jeddah remains, as it always has been, a welcoming destination for visitors on their way to the Two Holy Mosques, preserving its legacy of hospitality and history.
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