JEDDAH — Known as the Bride of the Red Sea, Jeddah is experiencing a significant shift in how residents and tourists engage with its coastline. The city’s relationship with the sea is being redefined by a surge in demand for private beach resorts that emphasize luxury, privacy, and personalized experiences.
Previously limited to select resorts and private chalets, Jeddah now offers a wide range of beach destinations, including women-only retreats and themed escapes. This evolution reflects a broader cultural shift as the city aligns itself with global tourism trends while respecting local norms.
“Honestly, the development is very clear,” said Majda Abdulgader, a Jeddah-based education and social adviser. “Now there’s a wide variety of both public and private beaches, all focused on the overall experience — not just the location, but also the atmosphere, events, and safety.”
Among the most popular spots is Mangrove Beach Resort, which features women-only days and a serene, upscale ambiance. La Mer Beach Resort caters to mid-range guests with a relaxed setting perfect for water sports and sunbathing. Meanwhile, Oia Beach Resort, with its Greek island theme, draws those seeking elegance and tranquility.
The rise of women-only beach days has empowered more women to enjoy the sea in privacy and comfort. Resorts such as Le Ponte de l’Amitie and La Maison d’Obhur offer spa services, yoga classes, and peaceful sunbathing areas exclusively for women.
“My experience at Oia during a women-only day with my daughter was wonderful,” Abdulgader added. “They genuinely care about the comfort of female visitors. What stood out to me was the high level of organization, respect, and privacy.”
Expectations among beachgoers are also evolving. Najla Bukhari, a Jeddah resident, outlined the essentials: “A clean beach, organized seating, good music, and basic amenities like clean bathrooms and towels are what people now look for.”
For others like Noura Samargandi, a marketing professional, privacy is non-negotiable. “I just want to enjoy the beach without worrying about how I dress or who’s watching,” she said. “That’s why I prefer women-only days.”
Not all preferences revolve around privacy. Kite surfer Khalid Al-Abdulwasi prefers open access and water sports. “I go to La Mer a lot. It’s relaxed and great for watersports. I can bring my gear and focus on the waves,” he said.
Aesthetically, many of Jeddah’s private beaches borrow from global design trends — whitewashed walls, curated playlists, and Mediterranean minimalism. But some locals are calling for more cultural authenticity.
“There are attempts to blend local culture with global trends,” Abdulgader observed. “But most lean toward international styles. I hope to see more local identity reflected in design and events.”
Events like Jeddah Season have also helped elevate the role of beach resorts in tourism. “They offer unique destinations for tourists and present a modern image of the city,” she said.
While luxury options flourish, residents stress the need for affordable access. Entry fees for private resorts range from SR150 ($40) to SR345, prompting calls for reasonably priced alternatives that cater to families, youth, and the elderly.
Public beaches like Alexandria and Al-Mahazem remain accessible for many, offering facilities such as lifeguards, umbrellas, and designated swim zones. Egyptian expat Amira El-Sayed, a math tutor, said Alexandria Beach is her go-to weekend destination. “It’s fun for adults and has a special play area for children. I prefer to come early in the morning before the beach gets crowded,” she shared.
With its growing portfolio of both luxury and public options, Jeddah is redefining its identity as a coastal city that offers something for everyone — whether it’s barefoot
luxury, a peaceful retreat, or a family outing by the Red Sea.
verified from sources : Arab news