“Ramadan Nights” at Al-Balad: Historic district reveals lineup of 50 traditional food stalls opening next week

The narrow, coral-stone alleys of Jeddah Old Town are set to come alive this week as the highly anticipated “Ramadan Nights” festival returns. Today, in a big news, the organizers took a giant step in confirming that 50 stall culinary owners will roll their shutters and turn the UNESCO World Heritage site into a gastronomic hub the holy month.

A Taste of History: 50 Spots for Hijazi Cuisine

The main ingredient of the celebrations this year is the widened Bastat Al-Balad market. Visitors can expect a curated journey through authentic Hijazi cuisine, featuring legendary staples like balila (seasoned chickpeas), kebda (sautéed liver), and the refreshing fermented drink, sobia. In contrast to contemporary dining courts, the stalls are incorporated into the ancient architecture so that the experience of iftar and suhoor is contained in the stalls and serves as the tribute to the ancient hospitality of the region.

Cultural Immersion in Jeddah Old Town

Beyond the food, the Jeddah Old Town program includes the “Mirkaz” zones—traditional seating areas where storytellers and local elders share tales of the city’s past. The Ministry of Culture also planned night roving performances, among which is the Mesaharati (traditional dawn awakeners) so that the mood is maintained throughout the night till dawn.

As the festival is set to open next week, the authorities recommend using newly designated parking areas outside the historic gates to control the crowds that are expected. for more news updates, visit our Gulf Independent News page.

(FAQs)

Q: What are the operating hours for the food stalls in Al-Balad?
A: Most stalls in the Jeddah Old Town area operate from 5:00 PM (just before Maghrib prayer) until 3:00 AM daily throughout Ramadan.

Q: Is there an entrance fee for the Ramadan Nights festival?
A: No, there are no restrictions on access to the Al-Balad district and the market territories, but there are certain workshops or individual museum tours that might be paid with tickets.

Q: Where can I park when visiting Al-Balad during Ramadan?
A: It is advisable to park in the assigned lots adjacent to Bab Makkah because of the heavy traffic or (ride-sharing application) to be dropped at the main entrances of the district.

Q: Are the food stalls suitable for families?
A: Yes, it is quite family friendly and there are special seating spots (called Mirkaz) and games that are friendly with children as well as traditional games very close to the stalls.