By, Nouran Malak
Eat ‘N Stays
Yanbu is closely linked to the ancient trade route of the Red Sea. For years it was a stopping point for merchants traveling along the caravan route between Egypt, Jordan, and Jeddah. The distance from Jeddah to Yanbu is approximately 300 km and from Riyadh to Yanbu approximately 1,000 km. The modern city of Yanbu is partly known for its industrial history, but as the pearl of the Red Sea and the diving capital of Saudi Arabia, this ancient port city attracts visitors to enjoy its white sand beaches and calm waters.
With the wonders of the underwater world on its doorstep, Yanbu is the perfect starting point for outdoor activities, snorkeling trips and discovering tropical marine life and amazing coral reefs.
TOP SPOTS FOR BEAUTIFUL BEACHES AND OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
Barracuda Beach
Located along a chain of coral reefs off the coast of Yanbu, Barracuda Beach is an underwater park that serves as a great backdrop for fishing and snorkeling. Dive into the depths of the sea, meet big-eyed tuna and explore stunning coral blossoms, squirrel fish, sharks, and red snappers. The best time to go snorkeling is in the late afternoon when the sun rises over the gorgeous coral reefs.
Yanbu Al-Bahr Beach
This beach offers plenty of beachfront fun with great views of the Red Sea. It features horse riding as well as the occasional water sports activities including water skiing, diving, and sailing. Families are advised to take a walk on the beach and enjoy the outdoors to build sandcastles.
Yanbu Waterfront
The serene clean, and beautiful sandy waterfront of Yanbu provides a wonderful getaway experience. This destination includes facilities and playgrounds as well as restaurants and cafes. Expect unforgettable strolls with gentle splashes of water along the waterfront shores.
Yanbu Industrial Lake
Lake Yanbu is a popular spot surrounded by flora and fauna. It’s a nice place to stroll along the Corniche. Here you can fish and watch birds. It is a great place for nature lovers and those who want to introduce their children to wildlife observation.
Al-Subh Beach Park
This beach is very picturesque and has a family friendly atmosphere. While swimming is not permitted on the morning beach, it is still a great place to catch the sunrise and go for a walk.
Alaiqh Beach
Beach has it all! With miles of beach as far as the eye can see, this coastline is stocked with activity essentials for families and kids from picnic spots, horseback riding, camel rides, quad biking and more.
Al-Nawras Island Park
AL Nawras Island is considered as an important economic and cultural center in the city of Yanbu. The Park Area is approx. 232,800 m2 along the industrial city of Yanbu and is a jewel among the finest beaches in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. An ideal place for watching the sunset, it is also recommended for fishing enthusiasts.
TOP SPOTS FOR SHOPPING
Dana Mall
Head to this specialized mall in the industrial city of Yanbu. Here you will find the real shopping experience, and it also contains an amusement park and there a cinema complex in the making with 21 screens, which provides the perfect entertainment experience for the visitors of Yanbu.
Al-Jawhara Mall
Al-Jawhara Mall is home to a variety of local and international brands and is a popular shopping landmark in Yanbu. Enjoy the latest fashion for the whole family.
Yanbu Mall
Offering a wide range of stores that include clothing, makeup, shoes, and home appliances, Yanbu Mall is the ideal destination for visitors looking to do all their shopping in one place. The mall also has many cafes and restaurants that you can enjoy before or after shopping.
A TASTE OF CULTURE & HERITAGE
Yanbu Historical City
Founded thousands of years ago by the early Egyptians, Yanbu has always been an important crossroads of trade, and over the years has also become an important economic center for Saudi Arabia. Its historic district, also referred to as Old Yanbu, features a restored old town, making it a destination for adventurous travelers and history buffs alike. In the historical district is the cultural center of the city, many buildings are still beautifully decorated with ancient designs. The old stone walls are well preserved. The city is making efforts to increase its appeal. The historic center is also home to what was once the home of Lawrence of Arabia. Hundreds of years later, locals were still afraid to enter the house, as it was said to be haunted by the ghost of a British officer. After an unexpected visit by Prince Sultan bin Salman, head of the Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage, it was decided to renovate the house and open it to visitors and tourists – a decision that paid off. The historical Yanbu is sandwiched between the desert and the water, its historical traces are still felt in its ancient walls even today.
Musmak Maritime Hall
It is considered one of the most important historical monuments in the city. The hall was set up for holding various events and seminars, as well as exhibitions and conferences. It has a shaded balcony with panoramic sea views.
The Sunken Ship
Follow in the footsteps of great divers in search of the Greek ship that sank near the shores of Yanbu 30 years ago. Rumor has it that nearly 60 percent of the ship is still submerged with all its machinery and crew belongings.
Lawrence of Arabia’s House
Thomas Edward Lawrence, known as Lawrence of Arabia, lived in an old house in Yanbu during the start of the Great Arab Revolt in 1915. This house has been renovated by the Ministry of Tourism and now it is on display for tourists and visitors of the fascinating coastal city, Yanbu.
Royal Commission Central Library
It was established in 1407 AH as a public library that welcomes residents and visitors. The Royal Central Library includes thousands of books and magazines dealing with various topics, including history, art, and business, in both Arabic and English.
Yanbu Al Nakhal
It is the oldest area and contains mostly plantations. Saudi farmers who grow dates are the only people living in this area.
The history of Yanbu Al-Nakhl goes back more than 2,000 years, and it is a city known for its springs, farms, and ancient charm. Whether you are a history buff or a nature lover, it is sure to give you an unforgettable experience.
TOP RESIDENCE AND HOTELS
Holiday Villa Resort Yanbu
Holiday Villa Resort Yanbu is set on the beachfront in Yanbu, 9 km from Sharm Yanbu and 5 km from Yanbu Mall. This 5-star hotel offers a 24-hour front desk, room service and free WiFi.
Novotel Yanbu Albahr
Novotel Yanbu Albahr features a restaurant, outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center and shared lounge in Yanbu. Featuring family rooms, this property also provides guests with a sun terrace.
Mövenpick Hotel & Resort
Featuring a private beach and marina, Mövenpick Yanbu offers rooms with panoramic Red Sea views and free internet access. Facilities include an outdoor pool, a gym, and a steam room.
Holiday Inn Yanbu, an IHG Hotel
Set in lush, landscaped gardens, Holiday Inn Yanbu offers 2 outdoor pools and 2 restaurants. It features free Wi-Fi in all areas.
Radisson Blu Hotel
Radisson Blu, Yanbu is located right by the Red Sea and a 20-minute drive from Yanbu Airport. It offers a fitness center and a tennis court.
TOP RESTAURANTS & FOODIE HOTSPOTS
AL-BAIK
The Famous Al-Baik is in King Fahad Street in the industrial city of Yanbu
Starbucks Café
The American multinational chain of coffeehouses and roastery Starbucks is in Dana Mall and in Prince Muqrin bin Abdulaziz Street.
CANTON
Canton is a casual Chinese restaurant in King Fahad St. in Dana Mall
OSTORAH RESTAURANT
Enjoy some authentic Arabian dishes and delicious mezze from this Middle Eastern joint Ostorah Restaurant in King Fahad Street.
THE OCEAN
The Ocean, located in Radwa 8 District. It is a popular restaurant that serves a wide selection of delicious and authentic Indian food that is sure to satisfy many customers.
FUDDRUCKERS
The American diner FUDDRUCKERS is in the Royal Commission in Al-Bathna District.
Offering a fun atmosphere and great taste, this restaurant brings back memories for those who grew up watching old Egyptian movies. Due to its authentic Egyptian taste and flavor, Egyptian Story Restaurant attracts locals as well as visitors.
Fuddruckers
Want a hearty burger topped with fresh vegetables and wrapped in fresh, homemade bread? Fuddruckers is the perfect restaurant. The options are endless, and the taste is guaranteed to come back again.
Guzel Saray Restaurant
Indulge in a delicious experience with authentic Turkish flavors. Plus, an amazing outdoor seating area overlooking the Red Sea.
Khyal Turkish Restaurant
Khayal Restaurant aims to serve classic Middle Eastern cuisine. Khayal is a meat lover’s paradise, serving only the most delicious dishes and authentic cuisine with traditional recipes that have been preserved for generations. With imagination come memories full of warm hospitality, generosity of culture and shared memories for all to enjoy. It is now located in Jeddah, Taif, and our new branch in Yanbu is currently open.
Ratio Café
Ratio is the cafe that we designed especially for you and took your demands and needs into consideration to meet them in the best way. You will be waiting for the moment you visit Ratio Cafe, because after your first visit you’ll make sure that you are in the right place where the appropriate atmosphere and strong flavors. Ratio café provide a great place for you, no matter how your mood is, and great flavors in a wide range of cold and hot drinks, dessert and snacks in a place that was designed by fascinating artists.