Jeddah

Ships berth a considerable distance, 10 km, from town, so use the transport provided by the cruise line.

Saudi Arabia has introduced an eVisa for cruise passengers departing from the country or arriving at one of its ports. It is about 130 Euro. Cruise companies may say they will arrange the visa, but this is often not the case, so check well in advance.

Alcohol and drugs are completely prohibited in the country, where Sharia, or Islamic law, is strictly applied. Bars open and restaurants serve alcohol only once the ship is 12 nautical miles from the Saudi coast.

Take a doctor’s prescription for any medication. Men and women should dress modestly in public, covering shoulders and knees and avoiding tight clothes or items with profane language or imagery. Female tourists no longer need to cover their heads while walking around, but must do so in places of worship.

Holding hands in the street or making public displays of affection is simply not acceptable.

Homosexual and extra-marital sexual relationships, including adultery, are unlawful and can carry severe penalties. Being transgender is also illegal. If authorities discover this, transgender visitors to Saudi Arabia may face significant risks and difficulties. However, MSC Cruises is deciding how to handle this, while confirming that gay cruisers are not banned from entering the Kingdom and sailing.

Thinking of linking an iPhone with a Bluetooth speaker and playing it in public? In that case, don't

Sharia law does not allow public observance of religions other than Islam, so consider jewellery carefully. Jewish visitors may enter the Kingdom, but not with an Israeli passport or a stamp proving a visit to Israel.

You may not take photographs or video recordings without permission.

Jeddah has traded as a port for centuries, giving it a cosmopolitan population. It is now Saudi Arabia’s chief commercial centre and has numerous government offices. Within the kingdom, it is known for shopping districts, restaurants and cafes. Jeddah also has the Kingdom’s largest Corniche, or waterfront, surrounded by many hotels, beaches and resorts.

Also see Jeddah Fountain, which is recognised as the highest fountain in the world.

Jeddah reveals the contrasts of a modern country whose society remains tightly structured around Islamic customs. Markets and business activity stop five times daily for prayer. Yet life is more liberal and cosmopolitan than in most other parts of the country, perhaps because Jeddah is both a seaport and a destination for travelling Muslims, whose cultural exchange has influenced it.

• Traditional multistory buildings and merchant houses in the Old City have yielded ground to modern development. More recently, city generations have valued these traditions and worked to preserve many older buildings with care.
• Several private beaches are popular, including Durrat Al-Arus, Crystal Resort, FAL, Al Remal, Shums, Bait Albahar, Salhia, Sheraton Abhur, Al Nakheel Village and other splendid resorts. Many are known for protected Red Sea marine life and offshore coral reefs.

Given the climate, cruise-organised excursions are recommended. A return bus to the Old Town is often available for $15 Euros.

Mecca is not very far from Jeddah, but unless you are a muslim, you cannot go there.

Coral houses stand on both sides of this busy market street at the old city’s heart. A photography permit is technically required, though in practice no one seems concerned provided you do not put a camera in people’s faces without permission.

Shopping-mall hours: Saturday to Tuesday, 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM; Wednesday and Thursday, 10:00 AM to 2:00 AM.

Saudi Arabia uses the Saudi riyal (SAR).

Although English is widely understood, Arabic is Saudi Arabia's official language.

Internet access is available in malls and cafes.