Yanbu is a port city on Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast, known for its calm beaches, rich history, and relaxed atmosphere. The city is divided into three main areas: old Yanbu, the industrial zone, and the growing tourist area along the corniche. Visitors come to explore the old town with its restored buildings, bustling souks, and traditional cafés. The coastline is lined with clean beaches where you can swim, snorkel, or enjoy a picnic. Yanbu is also famous for diving spots with colorful coral reefs and clear water. Family parks, modern marinas, and local seafood restaurants add to its appeal. The city is easy to get around, making it simple to visit top sights in a short trip. In 2025, Yanbu is becoming a popular choice for both locals and tourists who are looking for a tranquil holiday.
Top 10 Tourist Places to Visit in Yanbu
1. Yanbu Al-Bahr Old Town
Yanbu Al-Bahr Old Town is the historic heart of Yanbu and a great place to experience traditional Saudi life. The area has narrow streets, old coral stone houses, and wooden balconies that show the city’s long history as a Red Sea port. Many buildings have been restored, and you can walk around to see small shops, coffee houses, and busy local markets. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, with locals going about their daily routines. On weekends, there are often cultural events or food stalls. The Old Town is a favorite spot for photography and learning about Yanbu’s past.
Visiting Hours: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm (All Days)
Things to Do
- Explore the old streets and traditional houses
- Visit the local market (souq)
- Try local snacks and coffee
- Take photos of restored buildings and decorations
- Attend weekend cultural events if available
2. Yanbu Corniche
Yanbu Corniche is a long waterfront area that runs along the Red Sea coast. It is one of the city’s most popular places for relaxing, walking, and spending time with family or friends. The corniche features wide walking paths, green parks, children’s play areas, and plenty of benches with sea views. Palm trees and gardens add to the pleasant atmosphere. There are public beaches, spots for picnics, and open spaces for sports or riding bikes. The area is clean and safe, making it popular for both locals and tourists, especially during evenings.
Visiting Hours: 10:00 am to 11:00 pm (All Days)
Things to Do
- Walk or jog along the seaside paths
- Have a picnic or relax in the parks
- Let children play in the playgrounds
- Enjoy sea views and take photos
- Visit the public beaches
- Watch the sunset over the Red Sea
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3. Al Fairouz Park
Al Fairouz Park is one of the largest green spaces in Yanbu, Saudi Arabia, covering over 170,000 square meters. It is a popular spot for both locals and visitors to enjoy outdoor activities. The park has wide walking paths, landscaped gardens, children’s play areas, and open spaces for sports or picnics. Its location in the heart of Yanbu makes it easy to access, and it often hosts community events and seasonal festivals. The fresh air and well-kept surroundings make it a favorite spot for families and fitness enthusiasts.
Visiting Hours: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM (All Days)
Things to Do
- Stroll or jog along paved paths
- Relax on benches or picnic on the lawn
- Visit nearby attractions like Yanbu Lake Park and Al Nawras Island
- Grab a snack or enjoy lunch in an outdoor setting.
4. Royal Commission Beach
Royal Commission Beach in Yanbu lies along King Abdullah Road within the Royal Commission area. This beach is also known as Yanbu Al-Bahr Beach, known for its wide sandy beach with clear turquoise waters. Families enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and walks along the landscaped shoreline. Facilities include clean toilets, shower rooms, outdoor prayer areas, shaded picnic spots, and accessible pathways. Lifeguards are on duty during peak hours. Tourists can enjoy swimming, or water sports in a safe, well‑maintained setting. Sea views, golden sands, and gentle waves make it a peaceful escape.
Visiting Hours: 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM (All Days)
Things to Do
- Swim or relax in designated safe areas
- Walk or cycle along the paved promenade
- Enjoy a picnic under shaded shelters
- Try paddleboarding or jet-ski rentals
- Watch a scenic Red Sea sunset
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5. Al Nawras Island
Al Nawras Island is a tranquil coastal park in Yanbu along the Red Sea. It is also known as Al Nawras Beach. Built along the waterfront, it spans green gardens, shaded pathways, fountains, and sandy beaches. The island offers scenic views, two-toned sea waters, and peaceful picnic spots. It's a popular choice for families and groups looking for a relaxed day outdoors. Activities include casual fishing, beach walks, and enjoying local cafés scattered across the reading areas. It’s an ideal escape from the city with fresh sea air and safe open spaces
Visiting Hours: 24x7
Things to Do
- Walk along shaded gardens and waterfront paths
- Enjoy a picnic in grassy areas or by fountains
- Set up a campsite under the stars
- Go fishing from beach or shoreline areas
- Swim, snorkel, or relax by the Red Sea
- Capture the two-tone sea colors and sunset views
6. Yanbu Port
Yanbu Port is one of the oldest ports on the Red Sea coast of Saudi Arabia. It has played an important role in trade and travel for centuries. Today, it supports both commercial shipping and fishing activities. The port is a busy hub where goods arrive and fishing boats bring in their daily catch. Located close to the city, it offers views of ships, cranes, and the scenic Red Sea horizon. While it mainly serves industrial purposes, visitors can enjoy the nearby waterfront and see the lively harbor activity from public areas.
Visiting Hours: Early Morning till afternoon (No Specific timings)
Things to Do
- Explore the Yanbu Corniche
- Visit the nearby fish market
- Enjoy seafood at local restaurants
- Explore Yanbu Historic Area
- Relax at nearby public beaches
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7. Yanbu Lake Park
Located in Yanbu Industrial City, Yanbu Lake Park is a peaceful urban retreat. It is built around an artificial lake with shaded gardens and two scenic islands connected by wooden bridges. Opened in 2014, the park covers nearly 3,000 m² of water and over 21,000 m² of green space planted with palm trees, shrubs, and flowers. Waterfalls, night lighting, and a bird garden add to its charm. The park is popular among families, joggers, and couples looking for fresh air, quiet corners, and open-air strolls. Local birds and gentle breezes create a relaxing setting for nature lovers and picnickers alike.
Visiting Hours: 24x7
Things to Do
- Walk or jog along scenic lake trails
- Enjoy family picnics beside waterfalls
- Visit the bird garden to spot migratory birds
- Walk across island bridges for views of the lake
- Stay for the evening to see the fountains lit up
- Kids can play in open green spaces and play areas
8. Dolphin Diver Center
Dolphin Diver Center, also known as Dolphin Free Diver, is a leading dive center in Yanbu along King Abdullah Road. It offers guided scuba and snorkeling tours over vibrant coral reefs in the Red Sea. Recreational divers and first-time snorkelers can explore clear waters rich with marine life. Tourists praise the friendly and professional staff who take small groups to pristine dive spots like the Seven Sisters reefs, often spotting reef sharks, dolphins, and colorful fish.
Visiting Hours: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM & 4:30 PM – 10:00 PM (All Days)
Things to Do
- Join guided boat dives to well‑preserved reefs
- Try snorkeling over shallow coral gardens
- Discover marine life such as reef sharks and tropical fish
- Take night dives or drift dives for advanced experience
- Rent scuba gear or get training and certification
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9. Yanbu Heritage Museum
Yanbu Heritage Museum is well recognized as Radwa Museum. It is a private cultural museum housed in a former residential building in Yanbu al‑Bahr. Curated by Salem Al‑Hajouri, it displays over 40 years of collected artifacts showcasing the city’s sea-trading history, traditional crafts, vintage tools, old currency, manuscripts, and household items used in past generations. Tourists can explore themed halls including maritime heritage, historical coins, and local lifestyle exhibits in a comfortable and intimate setting.
Visiting Hours:
- 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM (Monday–Thursday, Saturday & Sunday)
- Friday: 3:30 PM to midnight
Things to Do
- Browse exhibits of old coins, vintage radios, and traditional tools
- Walk through life-size recreations of historic shops and ateliers
- Learn about Yanbu’s fishing traditions and pearl diving past
- Enjoy classic vehicles and artifacts with Arabic inscriptions
- Chat with the curator about local stories and museum history
10. Yanbu Night Market
Yanbu Night Market (or Night Souq) is a vibrant outdoor evening market in the historic Al Sur district by the Red Sea. This 100 year old market was formed by fishermen and sailors who once sold their catches before dawn. Today, it's a lively mix of restored heritage architecture, more than 200 stalls, and local culture. The market features handcrafted goods, textiles, spices, and seafood, with food stalls offering dishes like shawarma, kebabs, falafel, and sweet kunafa.
Visiting Hours: 7:00 PM to midnight (All Days)
Things to Do
- Shop handicrafts, jewelry, and local textiles
- Taste street food like shawarma, kabsa, and kunafa
- Enjoy live music and cultural performances
- Shop for local products like dates, honey, and spices
- Take photos amid restored coastal heritage buildings
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11. Dana Mall
Dana Mall is the largest shopping center in Yanbu, opened in 2007 and expanded in 2014 to cover around 44,000 m². It hosts international brands like H&M, Mango, Adidas, Red Tag, and Home Center, alongside local boutiques and a supermarket. The mall also includes a 21-screen cinema, children’s amusement zone, fitness center, and a wide food court. It’s designed for ease, with ample parking and a modern layout, making it a top destination for both locals and visitors.
Visiting Hours: 9:30 AM to 11:30 PM (Monday–Thursday, Saturday & Sunday)
Friday: Opens at 2:00 PM until 11:30 PM
Things to Do
- Shop at a mix of international and local brands
- Enjoy fast food or traditional meals in the food court
- Watch the latest movies at the on-site cinema
- Let kids have fun at the play and entertainment zone
- Visit nearby attractions like Yanbu Lake Park or the waterfront promenade
Travel Tips to Follow Before Exploring Places to Visit in Yanbu
- Check the weather: Yanbu has a hot desert climate. It is advised to visit during the cooler months (November–March) for a pleasant holiday.
- Dress modestly: Saudi Arabia follows conservative dress codes. Men should avoid sleeveless shirts, and women should wear loose clothing and an abaya in public.
- Carry cash and cards: While most places accept cards, small shops or markets may prefer cash.
- Plan transport: Public transport is limited. Taxis and private cars are the most convenient options for moving around.
- Respect prayer times: Many shops and attractions close briefly during daily prayers, so plan your visits accordingly.
- Stay hydrated: Carry bottled water, especially when exploring outdoor attractions.
- Follow local etiquette: Greet people politely, avoid public displays of affection, and respect cultural norms.
Final Thoughts
From sunrise walks by the sea to evening strolls through the old market, the places to visit in Yanbu are rich in experiences. The city’s coastline is perfect for water sports and family outings, while the historic areas bring the past to life. You can enjoy freshly caught seafood, shop for local crafts, or simply relax by the Red Sea. Each place tells a different story about Yanbu’s heritage and lifestyle. For those who love nature, culture, and the sea, Yanbu offers a memorable travel experience that is both peaceful and exciting.
Places to Visit in Yanbu - FAQ’s
Must-sees include Yanbu Al-Bahr Old Town, the Corniche, Royal Commission Beach, and the Yanbu Flower Festival. Each spot showcases the unique charm and lively culture of the city.
Yes, Yanbu is considered very safe for travelers. Locals are friendly and the city is well-patrolled. Exercise standard caution as you would in any destination, especially at crowded markets.
Costs are quite reasonable. Budget hotels start around SAR 150 per night, while luxury options go higher. Food, transport, and activities are generally affordable compared to other Red Sea resorts.
Yanbu is famous for fresh seafood, grilled meats, and classic Arabian bread. Adventure-seekers can try local street food at the night market, while international restaurants are also widely available.
Absolutely—women can travel solo or in groups without issues. Dress modestly and respect local customs, especially in traditional areas, but you’ll find Yanbu welcoming and safe.
The most pleasant months are November through April, when the weather is cooler, and many festivals take place. Summer can be hot but the sea breezes offer relief.
While public transport is limited, taxis and ride-sharing apps are plentiful. Renting a car is a good option if you want to explore outlying beaches or attractions with flexibility.
Yes! Kids will love Al Fairouz Park, Royal Commission Beach, and the interactive exhibits at Yanbu Heritage Museum. Many attractions offer playgrounds and family-friendly facilities.
