The Circuit

The Jeddah Corniche Circuit is relatively new, with the first race taking place in 2021. The circuit was built in under 12 months and is the fastest street circuit ever seen in Formula 1, with average speeds of 250 km/h. The track is 6.174km long, with 3 DRS zones and 27 corners (the most of any circuit on the F1 calendar). 

Things to Know Before Your Visit

Currency: Saudi Riyal, SAR

Time Zone: GMT+3

Languages: Arabic, English

Essential Numbers: 999 (Police), 997 (Ambulance)

Weather: The average temperature in March is 31.8°C (89.2°F)

Entry Requirements: A tourist visa is required to enter Saudi Arabia. Visa fees are roughly $120.00 US dollars (€110,00) and are non-refundable in the case of rejection. Apply for a tourist visa here.

Local Laws and Customs: 

• It is prohibited to possess or consume alcohol in Saudi Arabia. 

• It is advised that tourists dress conservatively to respect religious and social traditions. 

• Public displays of affection are considered inappropriate and should be avoided. 

Transportation

The most common methods of transportation for tourists are taxis or Uber. You can use the Uber app or the popular local taxi app Jeeny to reserve your ride in advance. If you plan on taking a Taxi, use a licensed taxi service and agree on a price beforehand. 

Public transportation is available; however, routes are not well-developed. If you plan on using public transport, note that routes to and from the track may be limited. You can find more information on Jeddah’s public transportation routes here.

You can also rent a car during your visit if you have an International Driving Permit (IDP). However, local traffic laws may make it difficult to get around comfortably. If you choose to drive during your visit to Jeddah, read up on local traffic laws here. 

Places to Stay

Radisson Blu: Located in the Al Shatiea district, guests are just a few steps from the Jeddah Corniche Circuit, the Red Sea, and the vibrant city centre. The hotel also offers several dining options, an outdoor swimming pool, and a spa to help you unwind after a long day at the track.

Rosewood: This 5-star hotel will make your vacation unforgettable. Enjoy one of the 127 luxurious rooms, dine at one of the three restaurants, and relax at the rooftop swimming pool with panoramic views of the Red Sea. The hotel is only 11 km from the Jeddah Corniche Circuit.

Park Hyatt: The Park Hyatt has everything you need for a remarkable trip. Located on the seashore of the Jeddah Corniche, this hotel offers unparalleled views of the Red Sea and the King Fahd fountain. Whether you spend your time lounging by the infinity pool or in the spa, you are guaranteed to leave feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. 

Things to Do

Explore the Corniche: The Jeddah Corniche Circuit is located in the Corniche area, where you’ll find some of the city’s most famous attractions. Visit the Al Rahma Mosque at high tide, which appears to be floating in the Red Sea, and marvel at the traditional architecture and Islamic art. After sunset, drop by King Fahd’s fountain, the highest water fountain in the world with water blasting over 800 ft. Finish your day by sampling delicious local cuisine at the area’s various food stands, restaurants, and cafes.

Go Shopping at the Red Sea Mall: Pick up your souvenirs at the Red Sea Mall, the largest in Jeddah. The mall has hundreds of local and international shops, restaurants, a cinema, an arcade, and the world’s largest indoor water fountain. 

Visit Al Balad: A must-see for tourists, get lost in the streets of the oldest area in Jeddah, and UNESCO World Heritage Site, Al Balad. Famous for its traditional buildings and art, Al Balad is also home to several museums and Jeddah’s oldest mosque. 

Restaurants and Cafes

Brew 92 Café: Get your coffee fix at Brew 92 café, located in the Al-Khalidiyah district of Jeddah. Brew 92 is one of the most popular cafés in Jeddah, where you can find a variety of high-quality coffee and food selections. Be sure to stop by for breakfast to try their famous breakfast menu.

Historical Nights: While visiting Al Balad, don’t miss this beautiful café built inside a 200-year-old building. Designed to replicate an old Hijazi house, visitors will get a taste of Saudi Arabia’s local heritage. Try their famous mint or basil tea and one of their traditional dishes for the ultimate experience. 

Niyyali: Overlooking the Red Sea and Jeddah Corniche Circuit, Niyyali specializes in rich and bold Lebanese dishes. Make sure to try one of their signature dishes for an unforgettable meal.

Planning on traveling for F1? Check out our other travel guides here.