Yanbu

DESTINATIONS saudi arabia yanbu

Yanbu

Yanbu has long been known as little more than an industrial centre with a busy port, but with some of the country's best diving spots and ever more luxury resorts in the area, it is quickly transforming into a coveted vacation destination. The desert beaches are beautiful, captivating, and solitary enough to make your visit a unique experience. There has never been a better time to visit, as the crowds have not yet caught on to this emerging city, and travellers can still have huge expanses of pristine beaches all to themselves.

The City

The city of Yanbu is divided into two large areas, separated by a short and sparsely populated expanse of desert. To the south is the industrial city and the royal commission, home to many expats working in the petrochemical industry. In the northern part, which is largely untouched by the large industry just a short distance away, are the downtown area, the port, the airport and many beaches. A traveler's instincts might be to avoid the southern area, but that could be a big mistake, as it features some interesting urban developments, ample green spaces and plenty of high-end establishments for fine dining and classy shopping not to be missed. The north, however, showcases the old city's charm and the wonderful scuba diving that draws so many savvy visitors in search of adventure.

Do & See Dining Cafes Bars & Nightlife Shopping Tourist Information

Do & See

Being a largely industrial city, one would perhaps be surprised by the abundance of serene parks and relaxing beach-side walkways. The people of Yanbu really take advantage of the outstanding city planning that has accompanied the city's rapid growth, well aware of just how special their beaches and green spaces are. Yanbu's beaches are the city's greatest draw, boasting some of the best dive spots in the country.

Yanbu Lakes

The name might be a bit deceiving, since the Lakes aren't really lakes, but a lush green expanse, perfect for kicking back and enjoying the evening breeze and the sunset. Locals really take advantage of this space, and it is uncommon not to find children playing and families picnicking at any …

Diving

Yanbu is known for its beautiful beaches on the Red Sea and the great scuba diving opportunities in the area. Saudi Diving Center is one of the city's most reputable dive centres, offering scuba and snorkeling equipment rentals as well as diving courses for the …

Yanbu Beaches

Touted as being some of the best in all of Saudi Arabia, Yanbu's beaches welcome people from all walks of life who gather to swim, relax on the golden sand and take advantage of the phenomenal diving spots along the reef. The nearby areas also have restaurants and cafes in abundance. They can be …

Royal Commission Corniche

This beautiful corniche stretches along the coast, providing a serene refuge from the industrial city of Yanbu. Lined with rows of palm trees on either side, it gathers visitors and locals alike, who flock here to enjoy long walks and to indulge in the nearby restaurants and …

Historic Quarter

Yanbu's small historic district, with its traditional scenes and views, is located northwest of the city centre, now separated from the sea by the port. The 19th century buildings in the area may be a bit run down, but the Lawrence residence and historic wall stand out as memorable …

Dining

Eating out is a favourite pastime in Saudi Arabia, and they certainly know how to indulge. Yanbu is home to a huge variety of cuisines, ranging from local specialties to Chinese and Indian dishes and even some Mexican options. Fresh local ingredients are often used to make tasty and very filling meals with wide varieties of flavours.

Al Baik

Roasted chicken may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Saudi cuisine, but it would be a mistake to skip Al Baik, as the throngs of local patrons could attest to. Make sure you're not in a hurry when you come, though, because there tends to be a …

Tako Hut

Without a doubt the best place to get Mexican food in the area, Tako Hut offers all the typical Mexican specialties with a Saudi twist. Options include tacos, burritos, fajitas, salads in a hard shell, desserts, Mexican beverages, and their famous Black Angus beef …

Shaheen Restaurant

Shaheen gathers cuisines from across the Asian continent, offering dishes ranging from Indian and Pakistani to Chinese and Middle Eastern. It is largely frequented both by locals and by numbers of Indian and Pakistani expats who confirm the authenticity and quality of its …

Cafes

Escape the oppressive heat of the industrial Yanbu by visiting one of the many modern and sleek cafes spread out throughout the city. They are a great way to relax and people watch while enjoying some hot coffee or tea. Many places roast their own beans and offer great desserts, as well.

Barn's

Barn's is Saudi Arabia's first fully home-grown quality coffee brand. Not only do they sell a wide array of high-quality coffee beverages, as well as delicious and fresh baked goods, but they also produce their own coffee beans. You can pick up different varieties to take home with …

Bars & Nightlife

The cultural environment in Saudi Arabia is highly conservative. Religious law forbids the sale or consumption of alcohol throughout Saudi Arabia, so there are no bars or nightclubs. Instead, evening social activities are centred on shopping or dining out in one of the city’s many restaurants or cafes whilst indulging in a delicious mocktail (a mix of fresh fruit juices) or a strong cup of Arabic coffee.

Shopping

Much of Saudi Arabia's social life revolves around shopping as a family, an activity where everyone can participate. It is very common for families to visit one of the many large shopping centres and spend the whole day browsing, enjoying some refreshments and escaping the intense heat in the air-conditioned malls. But be sure to head to some of the smaller markets for more traditional and authentic shopping experiences, as well.

Yanbu Mall

As one of the largest and best equipped shopping centres in the city, Yanbu Mall is a family favourite among locals to come and enjoy the day, with its great shopping options, plentiful eating alternatives and multiple entertainment facilities for all …

Dana Mall

Perhaps the city's premier shopping spot, Dana Mall gathers major brand names with small boutiques, along with great opportunities to get some interesting accessories. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes, as well as a gym and some other entertainment …

Yanbu Fish Market

For a more traditional Yanbu experience, head to the Fish Market, an area near the beach where the day's freshest catches are auctioned off in loud and attention-grabbing fashion. Locals can purchase small samples at retails stalls to enjoy the full …

Jarir Bookstore

This large chain of bookstores has locations all around the Arab world, in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates. It is the best resource in town for books, electronics, accessories and office supplies. They also have the city's widest selection of English language …