King Abdulaziz International Airport (IATA: JED – ICAO: OEJN) is the main international airport serving Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Located about 19 kilometers (12 miles) north of the city center, it is a key gateway for travelers to the western region of Saudi Arabia and one of the busiest airports in the Middle East.

The airport is a major hub for Saudia (Saudi Arabian Airlines) and is notable for its large Hajj Terminal, which accommodates millions of pilgrims traveling to the holy cities of Mecca and Medina. Ongoing modernization projects have transformed the airport into a world-class aviation hub.

Travelers appreciate the airport’s modern facilities, wide range of services, and convenient access to Jeddah and other destinations. For many visitors, it is their first experience of Saudi Arabia, offering insight into the country’s hospitality and organization. Learn what makes King Abdulaziz International Airport stand out and how it shapes the travel experience in this fast-growing region.

General Information

Location: Jeddah, Makkah Province, Saudi Arabia
Country: Saudi Arabia
Airport Type: Public, International
IATA Code: JED
ICAO Code: OEJN
Elevation: 48 feet (15 metres)
Coordinates: 21°40′12″N 039°09′31″E
Timezone: UTC+3 (Arabian Standard Time)
Distance from City Centre: Approx. 19 km (12 miles) north of Jeddah
Website: www.jed-airport.com
Operator: General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA)
Services: International and domestic flights, cargo, Hajj operations, airport parking

Parking Information

King Abdulaziz International Airport offers spacious parking zones for both short- and long-term use.

Short-Term Parking

Rate: Approx. SAR 5/hour (~$1.33 USD/hour)
Distance: Adjacent to terminal entrances
Ideal For: Pick-ups, drop-offs, short visits

Long-Term Parking

Rate: Approx. SAR 40/day (~$10.60 USD/day)
Distance: Shuttle or walking distance depending on terminal
Ideal For: Multi-day and extended travel

Payment Methods: Credit/debit cards, mobile payment apps
Security: 24/7 CCTV and patrol monitoring

Contact Information

Airport Information Line: +966 9200 11233
Email: info@jed-airport.com
FBO Coordination: Jet Aviation and Saudia Private Aviation handle VIP and business aircraft

Passenger Information

Immigration Requirements: Valid passport and visa required; eVisa available for eligible nationalities. Special entry procedures apply for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims
Crew Requirements: Passport, crew ID/licence, General Declaration, appropriate visa
Transport Options: Airport taxis, ride-hailing apps (Uber/Careem), hotel shuttles, car rentals
Nearby Accommodation:
Close to Airport: Radisson Blu Hotel Jeddah Al Salam, Movenpick Hotel City Star Jeddah
In Jeddah: Rosewood Jeddah, Assila, a Luxury Collection Hotel, InterContinental Jeddah
Currency: Saudi Riyal (SAR); major credit cards accepted

Terminal 1

Terminal 1 is the newest and largest terminal at Jeddah Airport. It handles most international flights and connects to the Haramain Express train.

The terminal offers many services. Passengers will find check-in counters, security checks, and immigration. Amenities include complimentary Wi-Fi, mobile charging stations, restrooms, luggage storage, and prayer halls. There are a variety of shops, restaurants, and VIP lounges for extra comfort. Terminal 1 also features a direct arrival area and a modern baggage claim.

Travelers can connect to ground transportation, including buses, taxis, and car rentals. The nearby Haramain Express train station makes trips to Mecca and Medina fast and simple.

North Terminal

The North Terminal serves most international airlines except for Saudi Arabian Airlines and those dedicated to Hajj or Umrah travel. It is smaller than Terminal 1 but still supports a busy passenger flow.

Facilities here include standard check-in and baggage counters. Waiting areas have comfortable seating, and there are several food and retail options. Prayer halls are available for passengers. There are immigration and customs desks for international travelers, along with ground transport options such as taxis and private cars.

While not as modern as Terminal 1, it remains an important hub for regular international traffic. It often serves connecting flights and travelers who do not require specialized Hajj services. For a map and further details, visit the North Terminal overview.

South Terminal

The South Terminal was historically used by Saudi Arabian Airlines for domestic and some international flights. As of recent years, its use has decreased and it is now less active. Most commercial operations have moved to Terminal 1.

In the past, travelers found check-in counters, baggage claim, seating areas, and shops. Services such as cafes and small stores existed in the terminal. It had direct access to parking and taxis. Sometimes the terminal is used for charter flights or special travel services, but this is not regular.

Travelers should check flight details in advance because most regular traffic now occurs in the newer terminals.

Hajj Terminal

The Hajj Terminal is designed for the unique needs of Hajj pilgrims. Built to handle very large crowds, it operates mainly during the annual pilgrimage season.

This terminal is one of the world’s largest open-air airport structures. It accommodates up to 80,000 people at a time, with covered areas to shield travelers from heat. Inside, there are basic seating, sleeping sections, public washrooms, and prayer spaces. Food stalls and medical facilities are on site to meet urgent needs.

Check-in, security, and customs counters have been arranged for fast movement. Buses connect the Hajj Terminal to entry points in Mecca, and special services exist for handling large groups and travel documents. For more details, see the Jeddah Airport guide for Hajj information.

Arrivals, Departures, and Transit

Jeddah Airport is a key hub for travel in the Middle East, offering both domestic and international flights. Travelers often use the airport for layovers, connecting to Asia, Europe, and other regions.

Immigration and Visa Procedures

Upon arrival, travelers must pass through immigration. Passports and visas are checked by border officers. Saudi Arabia requires most visitors to have a visa before entering. Some travelers are eligible for an e-visa, which can be applied for online before the trip.

Those stopping over for a short time might need a transit visa, depending on nationality and the length of the layover. It is important to confirm visa requirements before travel, as policies can change. New e-gates help speed up entry and exit for some passport holders, reducing wait times at immigration. For more details on arrivals and immigration, real-time updates can be found on the official King Abdulaziz International Airport website.

Layovers and Connections

Jeddah Airport is designed with travelers in mind, especially those making connections. Large signs guide passengers through transfer desks and gates. Several lounges offer comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, and snacks for layover guests.

For long layovers, hotels are available in and near the airport. The Haramain Express Train station is connected, providing quick access to other cities in Saudi Arabia. Baggage transfer for connecting flights is usually handled by airlines, but passengers should confirm with their carrier if they need to collect and re-check bags.

Transit passengers must ensure their documents are in order, including any transit visas or onward boarding passes. The airport also features dedicated transit counters to help with rebooking or missed connections. For current transit information, travelers can check live status updates on Jeddah Airport’s arrivals and departures.

Domestic and International Flights

Jeddah serves as a gateway for flights across Saudi Arabia and to major world destinations. Domestic routes connect to Riyadh, Dammam, and other cities, making travel within the kingdom straightforward.

Internationally, the airport offers direct flights to destinations in Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. Many travelers use Jeddah as a transit point for onward journeys. Airlines based at the airport include Saudia and many international carriers.

Departure halls are separated for domestic and international flights, with clear signs in English and Arabic. Check-in counters, security checks, and pre-boarding areas are well marked. Travelers can track real-time flight schedules and status for Jeddah Airport.

Airlines and Ground Transportation

Jeddah Airport handles a wide range of airlines and offers several ways for passengers to travel to and from the terminals. Many visitors use the airport as a hub for international, domestic, and Hajj travel.

Saudia and Major Airlines

Jeddah Airport is a major base for Saudia (Saudi Arabian Airlines), the national flag carrier. Saudia runs frequent flights to cities such as Riyadh, Dammam, and international locations like Dubai, London, and Jakarta. During Hajj season, Garuda Indonesia and airlines from countries like India, Egypt, and Turkey add more flights.

The airport has separate terminals for international and domestic flights, as well as a dedicated Hajj Terminal just for Hajj travelers. Travelers can fly to popular destinations including Muscat in Oman, along with cities in Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.

Many airlines operate from the airport’s Terminal 1, which is the newest and largest. Some airlines fly to smaller cities inside Saudi Arabia, giving good options for both business and family travel.

Ground Transport and Accessibility

Ground transportation at Jeddah Airport is convenient and varied. Travelers can use official airport taxis, pre-arranged private cars, or book a professional service like the Blacklane airport transfer for a more comfortable ride.

There are shuttle buses to major hotels in Jeddah and Makkah, plus several buses running to local destinations. For visitors going to the city center or other parts of Saudi Arabia, the Haramain high-speed train provides fast rail service to Makkah and Medina.

Many car rental companies have desks inside the terminal. Roads leading to and from the airport are well-marked, and accessible parking is available near each terminal. The airport makes it easy for travelers to reach their hotel or next destination using ground transport options such as taxis, buses, trains, and private shuttles.

Local Attractions

Al-Balad Historic District

A UNESCO-listed heritage site with centuries-old buildings and traditional markets.

King Fahd Fountain

The tallest water fountain in the world, reaching heights of over 300 meters.

Red Sea Mall

A modern shopping destination with retail stores, cinemas, and restaurants.

Jeddah Corniche

A scenic waterfront stretch featuring public art, walkways, and views of the Red Sea.

Fakieh Aquarium

The only public aquarium in Saudi Arabia is popular with families and tourists.

Mecca Gateway (for pilgrims)

Jeddah is the main entry point for millions traveling to Mecca during Hajj and Umrah.

Travel Tips

Best Times to Park:
Evenings and early mornings are generally less crowded
Hajj season (June–August) and Ramadan see very high demand—arrive early

Additional Notes:
The new Terminal 1 features automated immigration gates and high-capacity amenities
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminals
Arabic and English signage provided
Special lanes and support services are available for pilgrims and elderly travelers. Facilities and Terminals

Jeddah Airport, also known as King Abdulaziz International Airport, serves as a main gateway to Saudi Arabia. It has several terminals and modern amenities to support millions of yearly travelers, including those on international flights and during the Hajj season.

Frequently Asked Questions

Jeddah Airport serves millions of passengers each year, handling both regular and Hajj-specific flights. The airport has different terminals with a range of services, and its layout and operation are tailored to the needs of international travelers.

How do passengers transfer between terminals at Jeddah Airport?

Passengers usually move between Jeddah Airport’s terminals using free shuttle buses. These buses are scheduled to run regularly and connect the major terminals, including the North Terminal and the Hajj Terminal. Signs in the airport help guide travelers to the shuttle pickup points.

What facilities are available at the Hajj Terminal in Jeddah Airport?

The Hajj Terminal is built specifically for pilgrims traveling to Mecca during the Hajj season. It features open-air tents, modern washrooms, air-conditioning, prayer areas, and large waiting halls. The terminal handles high passenger volumes quickly by providing wide spaces and extra facilities designed for group travel.

Can you find detailed maps of Jeddah Airport online?

Yes, travelers can find useful airport maps and guides for Jeddah Airport online. These maps show entrances, check-in areas, lounges, restrooms, and gates to help passengers navigate the airport more easily.

What are the operating hours for Jeddah Airport’s arrivals and departures?

Jeddah Airport operates 24 hours a day. Flights arrive and depart at all hours, especially during busy seasons like Hajj and Ramadan. Customer service desks and information counters are also available throughout the day and night to help travelers.

Which amenities are offered at Jeddah Airport’s North Terminal?

The North Terminal provides lounges, restaurants, shops, currency exchange, and baggage services. It has prayer rooms, free Wi-Fi, and areas designed for families. Passengers can also find medical clinics and pharmacy services inside the terminal.

What is unique about the design or services of Jeddah Airport compared to other international airports?

Jeddah Airport is known for its Hajj Terminal, which uses a tent-like design to house large numbers of pilgrims. This structure allows the airport to manage huge crowds during the Hajj season, making it different from most standard international terminals. The airport combines modern amenities with facilities tailored for religious travelers.