Makkah Family Travel Guide 2025
Everything families need to know for a successful trip to Makkah with kids.
Makkah Province (Makkah al-Mukarramah) is the spiritual heartland of Islam and one of Saudi Arabia's most significant regions, encompassing the holy city of Makkah, the cosmopolitan port city of Jeddah, the mountain resort city of Taif, and the Red Sea city of Yanbu. The province draws millions of Muslim pilgrims annually for Hajj and Umrah, while Jeddah welcomes all visitors with its UNESCO-listed Al-Balad district, vibrant Red Sea coastline, and modern urban culture.
Top Family Activities
The best experiences for families in Makkah.
Fakieh Aquarium, Jeddah
Jeddah's premier marine attraction featuring Red Sea marine life, shark tanks, dolphin shows, and interactive exhibits. One of the largest aquariums in the Middle East and a must-do for families.
La Mer Beach and Development
Jeddah's most family-friendly beach development with Mediterranean-style shops, cafes, restaurants, a sandy beach, and calm Red Sea waters. Excellent for a full family beach day.
Al Hada Theme Park and Cable Car, Taif
A mountain theme park with cable car rides offering breathtaking valley views, plus a small fairground. The cable car alone is worth the trip for children — flying over the dramatic Taif valley at altitude.
Jeddah Corniche Family Walk
The 30km Corniche promenade is perfect for family evening strolls with beach areas, playgrounds, ice cream vendors, and the spectacular King Fahd Fountain visible in the distance.
Obhur Creek Water Sports
Jet skiing, banana boat rides, kayaking, and paddleboarding in the calm protected waters of Obhur Creek. Operators have safety equipment and lifeguards on duty.
Al Rudaf Park, Taif
A beautiful mountain park in Taif with walking paths, playgrounds, picnic areas, and rose and pomegranate gardens. The cool mountain air makes it especially refreshing compared to coastal cities.
Taif Rose Farm Visit
Children love walking through rows of fragrant roses and learning about the rose oil distillation process. Many farms allow picking and offer fresh rose water to taste. Best February-April.
Red Sea Mall Play Area
One of Jeddah's largest malls has an excellent supervised indoor play area for children, perfect for hot summer days when outdoor activities are impractical.
Activities by Age Group
Find activities suited to your children's ages.
👶 Toddlers (0-3)
- Parks with shaded play areas
- Short, stroller-friendly walks
- Swimming pools at family hotels
- Animal encounters
🧒 Young Kids (4-7)
- Interactive museums
- Easy outdoor adventures
- Cultural shows and performances
- Market explorations
🧑 Older Kids (8-12)
- Historical site tours
- Adventure activities
- Cooking classes for kids
- Nature excursions
👦 Teens (13+)
- Adventure sports
- Photography walks
- Cultural immersion experiences
- Food tours
Makkah Province Family Guide
Family itineraries, packing checklists, and activity planning tips.
Family-Friendly Accommodations
Where to stay with kids.
Rixos Obhur Jeddah Resort & Villas
The best family resort in Makkah Province with private beach, multiple pools (including kids pool), dedicated kids club, all-inclusive options, and comprehensive family programs.
Narcissus Obhur Resort & Spa
A pleasant Red Sea resort north of Jeddah with private beach access, pools, and a relaxed family atmosphere at more accessible prices.
Rosewood Jeddah
Luxury Jeddah hotel with excellent family services including cribs, interconnecting rooms, and child-friendly dining options.
Shangri-La Jeddah
5-star Corniche hotel with comprehensive family services, excellent pool, and convenient Red Sea location.
What to Look For
- Family rooms or connecting rooms
- Swimming pool (supervised)
- Restaurant with kids' menu
- Babysitting/kids' club services
- Safe, enclosed outdoor spaces
- Proximity to attractions
Kid-Friendly Dining
Where to eat with children.
Saudi restaurants always have family sections — use the family entrance for a more private, comfortable dining experience
Children are treated as very special guests in Saudi culture — expect staff to be especially attentive
Al Tazaj grilled chicken and Albaik broasted chicken are universally loved by children
Kids menus typically SAR 15-25 ($4-6.70) at casual restaurants
Many Jeddah restaurants have outdoor Corniche seating — excellent for children who need space to move
Bring snacks for car journeys — distances between attractions can be 45-90 minutes
Family Travel Tips
Make traveling with kids easier.
The best family travel season is November-February when temperatures are pleasant for outdoor activities
Keep children hydrated — heat exhaustion is a real risk, especially for children under 10
Apply SPF 50+ sunscreen liberally and frequently — the Arabian sun is extremely strong
Respect prayer times — businesses close for 20-30 minutes; use this time for rest or snacks
Saudi families typically dine late (8-10PM) — earlier dining is fine but restaurants are less lively before 7PM
Jeddah malls are excellent rainy-day or extreme-heat alternatives with entertainment, food, and shopping
Health & Safety
- Check recommended vaccinations for children
- Pack enough prescription medications
- Bring sun protection and stay hydrated
- Research nearest hospitals/clinics
- Get travel insurance covering the whole family
Plan Your Family Adventure
Get our complete family travel guide with kid-friendly itineraries, packing lists, and activity recommendations.