Al-Balad, Jeddah
Al-Balad | |
|---|---|
Historic Jeddah, the Gate to Mecca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site | |
| Coordinates: 21°29′N 39°11′E / 21.483°N 39.183°E | |
| Country | Saudi Arabia |
| Province | Mecca Province |
| City | Jeddah |
| Website | Official Website |
| Official name | Historic Jeddah, the Gate to Mecca |
| Type | Cultural |
| Criteria | ii, iv, vi |
| Designated | 2014 (38th session) |
| Reference no. | 1361 |
| Region | the Arab States |
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Al-Balad (Arabic: البلد), also known as Jeddah Historic District (Arabic: جدة التاريخية), is the historical area of Jeddah, the second largest city of Saudi Arabia. Al-Balad can literally be translated to "The Town". Al-Balad is the historic center of the City of Jeddah.
Traditional Hijazi houses are characterized by their wooden Roshan (Arabic: روشان) windows and balconies, which are similar to the Mashrabiya found in Egypt, Iraq and other countries, and to the Gallarija found in Malta (which is a descendant of the Muxrabija).
In May 2019, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman announced a multi-billion dollar restoration of 56 historical building in Al-Balad. The first stage of the restoration is worth $13.3 million.
In October 2023 and in line with Saudi Vision 2030, The Saudi Public Investment Fund announced Al Balad Development Company, which aims to transform Historic Jeddah into a global tourist destination.