One of Jeddah's oldest shopping streets, lined with textile, perfume and date shops in Al-Balad.
Souq Qabil is a historic market on Qabil Street in Al-Balad, Jeddah, named for the tribes (qaba'il) whose traders once brought goods here. It is among the city's oldest shopping streets and is lined with small shops selling textiles, abayas, perfumes, dates, nuts, gold and souvenirs. The street feels more local than touristic, with prices posted at some stalls and negotiated at others. A walk through takes 30 to 40 minutes and links naturally to Souq Al-Alawi and Nasseef House on the same visit. Evenings are livelier, and weekends and the weeks before Eid and Ramadan are very crowded. Visitors usually combine it with a sit-down dinner in Al-Balad afterwards.
| Admission | Free |
|---|---|
| Hours | Typically daily about 09:00-13:00 and 16:00-23:00 |
| Typical visit | 30-60 minutes |
| Best time | Late afternoon |
| Getting there | Uber, Careem or Bolt app to Al-Balad about SAR 25-45 (about USD 6.67-12.00), then walk |
| Address | Qabil Street, Al-Balad, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia |
Location
Qabil Street, Al-Balad, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
21.4842, 39.1853 View on map
Highlights
- Shop for textiles, dates, perfumes and souvenirs on an old trading street
- See the mix of restored and weathered Hejazi facades
- Pair it with Souq Al-Alawi and Nasseef House
- Enjoy the busy evening atmosphere
Tips for visiting
- Go on a weekday afternoon for fewer crowds.
- Bargain in small shops; fixed prices apply in larger stores.
- Pay with small cash notes where possible.
- Avoid the days before Eid when the lane is packed.
- Stay hydrated; the street has little shade at midday.
When to visit
Weekday late afternoons from November to March.
Accessibility
The street is mostly flat but crowded, with uneven edges; wheelchairs can manage parts of it.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
How long should I allow?
30 to 40 minutes for the street, longer with shopping.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes, though crowds are heavy at peak times.
Are prices fixed?
Mixed; many small shops allow polite bargaining.
Is there an entry fee?
No.