Souq Al-Alawi

Souq Al-Alawi is the oldest of the covered markets in Al-Balad, Jeddah, lining Al-Alawi Street beneath tall coral-stone houses with carved wooden roshan balconies. Trade here served the pilgrim traffic that passed through the port, with spices, incense, cloth, dates and household goods sold to townspeople, visitors and tribes from the interior. Some stretches are roofed, which kept the lane cool and shaded before modern cooling. The souq stayed in use as the walled town expanded outward, and today it is a working market rather than a museum. Visitors find spice and perfume shops, tea stalls and small cafes, and traders who will often bargain. It links by short walks to Nasseef House and Souq Qabil.