Nassif House Museum – The Heart of Historic Old Jeddah
Standing as a masterpiece of Red Sea architecture, the Nassif House (Bayt Nassif) is the most famous historic residence in Al-Balad, Jeddah's UNESCO World Heritage district. Built in the late 19th century for Sheikh Omar Nassif, then Governor of Jeddah, the house famously hosted King Abdulaziz ibn Saud in 1925. Today, it serves as a museum and cultural center, offering a window into the traditional Hijazi lifestyle and the foundations of the modern Saudi state.
The iconic facade of Nassif House, featuring traditional Rawasheen woodwork.
At a Glance
Location: Al-Balad District, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Historical Significance: Former residence of King Abdulaziz; built in 1881
Architectural Style: Traditional Hijazi (Coral stone and Teak wood)
Unique Feature: Ramp-style staircase designed for camels to carry supplies to the top floor
Historical Significance
Nassif House is more than just a building; it is a witness to Saudi history. It served as the primary residence for the founding King of Saudi Arabia, King Abdulaziz, during his stay in Jeddah. The house was a hub for diplomatic meetings and social gatherings for decades before being converted into a library and eventually a public museum under the supervision of the Ministry of Culture.
Architectural Highlights
The house is a prime example of the ingenious design used to combat the humid climate of the Red Sea coast:
- Rawasheen: Elaborate carved wooden window lattices that provide privacy while allowing air to circulate.
- Coral Stone Walls: Thick walls built using local coral blocks that naturally insulate the interior.
- The Camel Ramp: Unlike traditional stairs, the wide ramps allowed camels to walk up to the upper floors to deliver heavy goods.
- The Tree: The square in front of the house is home to Jeddah’s oldest tree, which was for years the only tree in the city.
Museum Collections
Inside the 106 rooms of Nassif House, visitors can explore collections that include:
- Calligraphy: Rare Islamic manuscripts and traditional Arabic art.
- Royal Memorabilia: Items used by King Abdulaziz during his residency.
- Historical Maps: Vintage maps of the Hejaz region and old Jeddah port.
- Traditional Furniture: Authentic 19th-century Hijazi interior decor and household items.
Visitor Information
| Detail |
Information |
| Opening Hours |
8:00 AM – 11:55 PM (Hours may vary during Al-Balad festivals) |
| Entry Fee |
Free entry (Booking via "Events Jeddah" app may be required for special tours) |
| Best Time to Visit |
After 5:00 PM when Al-Balad comes to life with street markets |
| Dress Code |
Modest attire (shoulders and knees covered) is recommended |
| Nearby Attractions |
Souq Al-Alawi, Gabel Street, and the ancient city gates |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When was the Nassif House built? +
Construction began in 1872 and was completed around 1881.
2. Is Nassif House currently open to the public? +
Yes, it is a museum, though parts may occasionally be closed for restoration due to the Al-Balad UNESCO preservation project.
3. Why is there a ramp instead of stairs? +
The ramp was designed to allow camels to carry food, water, and fuel directly to the kitchen and storage areas on the upper floors.
4. Who was Sheikh Omar Nassif? +
He was a wealthy merchant and the Governor of Jeddah during the late Ottoman and early Saudi eras.
5. Can I take photographs inside the museum? +
Photography for personal use is generally allowed, but flash and professional equipment may require permission.
6. Is the museum air-conditioned? +
Modern AC has been installed in some exhibition areas, but the house also relies on its original natural ventilation design.
7. Is there a tour guide available? +
Yes, local guides often provide walking tours of Al-Balad that include the Nassif House.
8. What is the material used to build the house? +
It is primarily built from coral stones gathered from the Red Sea and teak wood imported from India.
9. How many rooms are in the house? +
The house originally contained 106 rooms across four main stories.
10. Where exactly is Al-Balad? +
Al-Balad is the historic downtown area of Jeddah, located about 20 minutes south of the modern Corniche.
11. Is it suitable for children? +
Yes, children will find the historical artifacts and the unique architecture (like the camel ramp) fascinating.
12. Is there an entry fee for foreigners? +
Entry is currently free for all visitors, though this may change during specific festival seasons like "Jeddah Season."
13. Can I visit the roof? +
Access to the roof depends on the current museum safety regulations, but it traditionally offers great views of the Al-Balad rooftops.
14. Is the museum accessible for people with disabilities? +
While there are ramps, the historic nature and uneven stone floors can make it challenging for some wheelchairs.
15. What else is near the Nassif House? +
The Matbouli House Museum, the Al-Shafee Mosque, and the bustling Souq Al-Alawi are all within walking distance.
Step Back in Time in Historic Jeddah
From the founding of a kingdom to the intricate beauty of Hijazi architecture, the Nassif House Museum is a cultural treasure. Book your Jeddah tour now to explore the secrets of Al-Balad.
