Long before long blacks or creamy macchiatos, there was qahwa, cardamom-spiced coffee poured from elegant pots into tiny cups. Traditionally served to welcome guests, mark special occasions or accompany quiet conversations, it remains a cornerstone of Saudi Arabian hospitality.
Today, Jeddah’s café scene is buzzing, with over 650 spots serving everything from traditional qahwa to cold brews and flat whites – all in seriously Instagrammable settings. Here are the cafés you can’t miss when you’re here.
GoodHood
With its colourful décor, extensive menu of speciality coffees, books, board games and quiet working areas, it’s no wonder GoodHood made Time Out Jeddah’s Best Cafés list for 2025. Don’t miss the gigantic cinnamon bun with your coffee. @goodhood.sa
Sculpture Café
In Saudi Arabia, people go out at night, meet at trendy cafés and chat for hours over a good cup of coffee. Sculpture Café is one of those hotspots – not only do they take their coffee seriously, but they also draw a crowd, especially after dark. Whatever time of day, don’t miss their fresh croissants. @sculpture.sa
Aïda
Nothing says “welcome to Jeddah” like a renowned Viennese café at King Abdulaziz International Airport. This is the largest – and pinkest – Aïda outpost in the world, evidence of the city’s love for coffee. Indulge in Austrian pastries, cakes and creamy coffees before takeoff.
@aidacafe
Culture Café
Sitting along the Al-Hamra Corniche waterfront, this is another café where coffee and sweet treats delight while the view steals the show. Try to snag a table at the terrace, especially after sunset, for a superb view of the 312m-high cascading King Fahd fountain across the Red Sea. @culturecafe.sa
Historic Nights Rooftop Café
Overlooking historic Al-Balad with its intricate windows and balconies, the coffee here almost takes a backseat to the view. Unlike Jeddah’s trendy industrial-chic cafés, this rooftop gem charms with an eclectic mix of décor, seating areas and twinkling string lights. Al Kabli Ln, Al-Balad
