Yanbu Al-Bahr Old Town

Yanbu Al-Bahr Old Town is the historic core of the Red Sea port of Yanbu in Saudi Arabia's Al Madinah Region, about 200 km west of Madinah. For centuries Yanbu served as the port of Madinah, receiving pilgrims, grain and trade goods, and the old quarter preserves a cluster of coral-stone merchant houses from that period. The houses are built from blocks of coral and lime plaster, with tall narrow facades and carved wooden rawashin, the projecting balconies that caught sea breezes and screened family life from the street.

Visitors walk through narrow lanes between multi-storey houses, passing weathered doors, shuttered windows and small courtyards. Restoration is partial, so some buildings have been repaired and opened, while others remain in a fragile or ruined state, which gives the quarter an unfinished, authentic character. The nearby waterfront and harbour offer a contrast with Yanbu's industrial and resort areas to the north.

A visit typically takes 1 to 2 hours. The best photo angles are along the main lane looking toward the carved balconies and, in the evening, from the corniche where the warm light picks out the coral texture. Evening is the recommended time since the heat drops, shops and cafes open and local families come out. Midday is hot and quiet. The old town is generally uncrowded, though weekends see more local visitors.

Old Town is reached by taxi or ride-hailing app from Yanbu hotels for about SAR 15-30. The quarter is open all day and free to enter. Visitors should respect residents, avoid climbing on unstable structures, and wear sturdy shoes for uneven paving.