Yanbu Al Bahr City Guide

General Information / Guide

Yanbu, located on Saudi Arabia's West Coast, is famous as the hub for diving in the country. This remarkable city is divided into three districts Yanbu Al Bahr, Yanbu Al Nakhal, and Yanbu Industrial.
Yanbu Al Nakhal holds significant historical significance as a crucial stopover for traders traveling between Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Yemen, and the Mediterranean Sea. Meanwhile, Yanbu Industrial is known for its oil facilities and the beautiful Yanbu Industrial Lake, like a natural oasis.
Nestled in the heart of the city, Yanbu Al Bahr has archaeological structures constructed from mud and stones, as well as centuries-old historical sites like Souq Al Layl, Senussi Mosque, handicraft shops, and traditional restaurants serving local cuisine with authentic flavors. Yanbu Al Bahr also offers excellent opportunities for water sports, including water skiing and boat rides. Most importantly, Yanbu is renowned as a famous destination for diving enthusiasts, offering the chance to explore the Red Sea's coral reefs and diverse marine life.

Climate / Weather / When to Go

Yanbu experiences a subtropical desert climate, with warm to hot weather throughout the year. Summers are scorching, with temperatures often exceeding 40 degrees Celsius, making it an excellent time for beach activities and water sports. The milder winter months, from November to April, are more comfortable for outdoor exploration, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius.

How to Get There

Prince Abdul Mohsin Bin Abdulaziz International Airport is located around 10 kilometers from Yanbu, offering domestic and limited international flights. The airport is conveniently located within the city, making your arrival and departure hassle-free. Taxis and rental cars are readily available for transportation within the city.

Food / Restaurants / What to Eat and Drink

Yanbu has a rich culinary scene with diverse seafood and global cuisine options. Al Marsah Restaurant offers fresh seafood by the Red Sea, including crispy fried grouper fish. Najil Arab Restaurant serves tender salmon and fried dirk fish with rice. Ocean Fish Restaurant presents a seafood feast from Indian and Chinese cuisine. Sea Waves Seafood Restaurant offers crispy fried grouper fish and grilled shrimp with various rice options. 
For coffee and beverages, there are cafes like Va Steen, Triple Point, NRG, Hora, Barista, Overload, Osool, and Face-to-Face Lounge. They offer a variety of coffee and dessert choices. Zafran Restaurant combines Pakistani and Chinese flavors. Taste Zone offers a range of Asian dishes. Burger lovers can enjoy options at West Burger, Filiz, Fridays, and Fuddruckers Restaurants. 

Important Places / Places to Visit

• Al Nawras Island: A scenic waterfront with lush gardens, ideal for leisurely walks and picnics.
• Yanbu Historic Area: Explore the old town with its traditional mud-brick architecture, narrow alleys, and historic Ottoman Fort.
• Yanbu Fish Market: Witness the vibrant atmosphere of a local fish market, where you can buy fresh seafood or simply enjoy the lively ambiance.
• Dana Mall: An important mall in Yanbu where you can find local and international brands.
• Yanbu Lakes: A series of man-made lakes offer a serene escape, perfect for birdwatching and relaxation.
• Yanbu Parks: A series of gardens and parks, ideal for family-friendly fun, like Yanbu Lake Park, and Al Fairouz Park.

What to Do

Yanbu offers many activities, from exploring its historical sites to enjoying water sports along its pristine beaches. You can also visit the nearby coral reefs for snorkeling and diving. Don't miss the opportunity to experience a desert safari, which provides a glimpse of the stunning Saudi Arabian desert landscapes.

Nightlife / Bars / Entertainment

Yanbu doesn't have a vibrant nightlife due to the prohibition of alcohol in the city. Nevertheless, you still can enjoy its growing entertainment scene with numerous cafes, and restaurants where you can have mocktails or authentic Arabic coffee. 

Shopping / What to Buy

Hanan Street in Yanbu offers a window into local culture. This historic street has numerous shops where you can find spices, food, perfumes, textiles, and products catering to various needs, maintaining its commercial significance over time. It's a vibrant mix of global and local brands and cheerful vendors.

Yanbu Mall, on the other hand, is a modern shopping destination with colorful clothing, perfumes, and diverse cuisine in its food court. Dana Mall, one of Yanbu's largest shopping centers, offers a spacious and organized experience with a wide range of local and international stores, family-friendly play areas, and excellent restaurants. It's a delightful place for shopping, dining, and leisure.

Festivals/ Events

Yanbu hosts cultural and religious events throughout the year, such as the Saudi National Day and religious festivals. The city's celebrations often include traditional music, dance, and local cuisine.

Holidays / Festivals / Important Days

22 February - Saudi Founding Day
23- September - Saudi National Day
Eid Al-Fitr
Eid Al-Adha

Things to Pay Attention to / Important Information

Respect local customs and traditions by dressing modestly and behaving conservatively in public places. Alcohol is not readily available in Yanbu due to the city's conservative nature. Be aware of local customs and show respect for Islamic practices and religious traditions.

Transportation

Yanbu offers public transportation primarily in the form of taxis and shared ride services. While the city is relatively small and walkable, taxis are a convenient mode of transportation for longer distances. Taxis do not typically have meters, so fare negotiation is a common practice. Renting a car is also an option for more independent exploration of the city and its surroundings.