Jeddah: Designer Valentino in Arabic

Jeddah: Versace in Arabic

Our World: Jeddah Art Classes on the Street

Dia Aziz Dia is one of Jeddah's most famous and beloved fine artists. His gallery is located in Jeddah's old historic district called Al Balad.

Directly outside his art gallery in Al Balad, he often conducts evening art lessons, sharing his knowledge and talent with other aspiring artists.

His distinct style of using light in his paintings brings his subject to life in a magical way.  Much of art depicts memories from his childhood growing up in Jeddah.  To see some of Dia's art, CLICK HERE.

Below is a photo of me with the revered artist Dia Aziz Dia (on the left). It was an honor to meet him and see the great work he is doing for budding artists in the historic part of Jeddah.

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Jeddah: Evening Social Life in Al Balad

It's a man's world in Saudi Arabia - and men here are generally very sociable.  I took this photo one evening down in Jeddah's historic district of Al Balad, amidst the aging buildings.  These men had gathered on the sidewalk to visit, drink tea, and play games of dominoes or cards.  I love seeing the sandals off to the side of the large carpet where they sit and enjoy themselves.   

Jeddah: Antique Home Decor

Candelabras, a tree of incense burners, and fancy rosewater sprinklers (called "marrash" in Arabic) adorn the top shelf of this antique chest in a museum in Jeddah's historic district called Al Balad.  Each of these home accessories served important purposes in the early days in Saudi Arabia. Each is still a popular item still found in most homes today. 

To learn more about the rosewater industry and its history in Saudi Arabia, Saudi Aramco World Magazine published a fascinating article 20 years ago about this subject.  CLICK HERE to read it.  

Jeddah: Paris Hilton Goods

Paris Hilton products are sold in Saudi Arabia too.  Most Saudi women are quite stylish and modern.

Jeddah: Decorative Woodwork

This gorgeous decorative detail was on piece of furniture in one of the old homes down in Al Balad, the oldest part of Jeddah.