The Al Tayebat International City Museum for Science and Knowledge is among Jeddah’s largest historical structures. The museum was founded by Abdul Raouf Hassan Khalil and took over at least fifteen years to complete. It showcases cultural landmarks, the tremendous Saudi civilization artifacts, and traditional crafts.
The museum is divided into several wings, including the general culture wing, which exhibits numerous magnificent heritage frescoes ranging from ancient to current. The second wing is the Islamic Civilization wing, which displays several Islamic monuments and artifacts dating back 15 centuries. Manuscripts and Qurans are among the most important items in this wing. It also displays the atmosphere and construction style of many other countries in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and other pavilions.
About Al Tayebat International City
The Al Tayebat International City, one of the most unusual hidden gems and tourist attractions in Jeddah, is a massive museum that depicts the city’s rich past. The museum, which combines art and culture beautifully, is home to a stunning collection of international Islamic antiquities, including antique coins, modern furniture, and more.
The city preserves the classic Hijazi style of architecture, with magnificent minarets dispersed across the large complex to tell the tale of Jeddah and the Arabian Peninsula. There are more than 60,000 artifacts in the museum, including ancient manuscripts, traditional costumes, and a re-creation of the Kaaba.
The museum, which features traditional Hijazi architecture, was formerly Sheikh Abdul Rauf Khalil’s palace. This palace was eventually transformed into a museum to house artifacts collected by the Sheikh himself.
The museum consists of numerous buildings, each with hundreds of rooms. It displays historical artifacts such as Islamic texts, pottery, coinage, firearms, furniture, and clothing. Visitors can take guided museum tours to learn more about Saudi Arabia’s rich history and culture.
Highlights of Al Tayebat International City in Jeddah
1. Beautiful complex
The complex has 12 traditionally styled buildings belonging to the 19th century. Visitors can explore these buildings housing several ancient artifacts and crafts from around the world. The building has carved doors and windows offering a beautiful look to the building. There is a courtyard inside these buildings with stunning fountains and palm trees providing a relaxing environment.
2. Glimpse into the history of the Arabian Peninsula
The museum has exhibits that showcase artifacts related to history and culture of the Arabian peninsula. Visitors can explore the Islamic culture, the rise of Islam, and how Saudi Arabia helped in the growth of Islam. The displays include jewelry, weapons, household items, clothing, and religious objects. They have labels with intriguing true stories for providing visitors with an all inclusive experience. Tourists can also use audio guides for gaining more understanding of the artifacts.
3. Dioramas, take visitors back in time
The dioramas in the museum are a distinctive attractions that distinguishes it from other museums. Visitors are transported back in time and given a deeper grasp of the area’s past thanks to the immersive experiences they offer. Visitors may enjoy the meticulous attention to detail of the dioramas.
The topics of the dioramas extend from the time before Islam to the present. They give tourists a broader understanding of the history and culture of the nation by depicting historical events like the Battle of Uhud and the Siege of Jeddah.
4. Cultural events and workshops
The museum hosts a variety of workshops and cultural events. The events provide visitors with an opportunity to experience the local culture and learn about the customs and traditions of the country.
The events include traditional music and dance performances, such as the Ardha dance, performed with swords and drums. Visitors can also attend workshops on traditional crafts and skills, such as pottery making, weaving, and calligraphy. The workshops are led by skilled craftsmen, and visitors can learn about the techniques and materials used in traditional crafts.
Location of Al Tayebat International City museum: Al Tayebat International City, Rayhanat Al Jazirah, Al Faisaliyah District, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Timings of Al Tayebat International City: Saturday to Thursday, 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm, 8:00 am to 12:00 pm; Friday, closed
Al Tayebat International City ticket price: Free
Al Tayebat International City is one of top museums to visit in Saudi Arabia. The museum houses numerous historical artifacts in a grandeur architecture.
Al Tayebat International City FAQs
What is the address of the museum?
Al Tayebat International City, Rayhanat Al Jazirah, Al Faisaliyah District, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Why is the museum famous?
The museum is a city in itself, encompassing a 10000 square meter expanse and housing 300 rooms in 12 structures.
What’s the ticket price for the museum?
The entry to the museum is free.
