The second largest city after Riyadh, Jeddah is a commercial hub sitting to the west along the Red Sea with the second busiest seaport in the Middle East. Jeddah is also the principal gateway to Mecca, the holiest city in Islam, and sees over a million pilgrims a year on their way to perform the Hajj. Despite this, Jeddah is perceived to be the most liberal city in Saudi Arabia and is a popular tourist destination, offering the beauty of ancient architecture mixed with the latest luxuries. At its center is Al Balad, a historical Old Town with traditional multistory buildings and merchant houses that gained UNESCO World Heritage status in 2014. This living museum is undergoing a major restoration project issued by royal decree. In contrast, the Jeddah Corniche, a modern seaside avenue, is the heart of the social scene in the city with a string of beach resorts, open-air art sculptures, hotels, eateries, and recreational spots. Though Jeddah’s robust food culture features almost every cuisine imaginable, its close proximity to the Red Sea puts local seafood at the forefront, unlike elsewhere in the country. The Red Sea also offers opportunities for diving, snorkeling, and fun maritime activities around the colorful corals just off the shore.