Step into a world shaped by the sea, stories, and centuries of exchange

A Museum anchored in history, inspired by the future

Nestled in the heart of Jeddah’s UNESCO-listed historic district of Al Balad, the Red Sea Museum reimagines the landmark Bab Al Bunt building as a living center of cultural exchange. Once a gateway for pilgrims, merchants, and explorers, it now anchors a new journey: one that celebrates the shared stories, biodiversity, and enduring spirit of the Red Sea and its people.

The Red Sea Museum Mission & Vision


The Red Sea Museum preserves and brings to life the tangible, intangible, and natural heritage of the region through over 1,000 rare artifacts, maps, manuscripts, photographs, and contemporary artworks.

Here, visitors will discover authentic stories of trade, migration, faith, and encounters across cultures that have shaped the identity of Jeddah, Makkah, and the Red Sea region throughout history.
The Red Sea Museum Mission & Vision
Photo: Steven Jackson

What We Do

Exhibitions & Collections

Rooted in the stories of the Red Sea's communities, the museum invites visitors to explore, learn, and reflect. Through immersive exhibitions, vibrant public programming, and hands-on learning experiences, the museum fosters dialogue, nurtures sustainability, and promotes deeper understanding between cultures and generations

Visit What's on

Research & Documentation

Guided by the goals of Vision 2030 and a commitment to enhancing quality of life, the Red Sea Museum stands as a new cultural landmark for Jeddah and the wider region.

Visit What's on

Learning & Engagement

It offers a space to connect with the past, engage with the present, and imagine a future shaped by shared heritage, learning, and the ever-shifting tides of history.

Visit Learning Programmes

Local Partnerships

We collaborate with coastal communities, historians, and artisans to safeguard traditional knowledge and bring their stories into the spotlight.

' How can we connect people and place through art? That's at the heart of what we are really about. '
Author

Our building

Once a historic customs house overlooking the Red Sea, the museum’s home has been thoughtfully restored to blend tradition with modern design. This waterfront landmark in Al-Balad now stands as a cultural hub for exploration, storytelling, and celebration of Saudi Arabia’s maritime heritage.

Modern design with a coastal heart

  • To fit in with its dramatic location overlooking the main gate, facing out to sea. Made up of six..

  • The first floor galleries are naturally lit, changing with the seasons..

  • Outside, an acid-etched glass rain screen captures and reflects the

  • The first floor galleries are naturally lit, changing with Read More sits on a raised plinth, facing out to sea. Made up of six..

Prince Badr bin Farhan Al Saud’s Visionary Legacy

As Saudi Arabia’s first Minister of Culture, His Highness Prince Badr bin Farhan Al Saud has played a pivotal role in shaping the Kingdom’s cultural renaissance. A champion of heritage preservation and creative innovation, his leadership laid the foundation for the Red Sea Museum. His vision continues to inspire a deeper connection to the sea, history, and national identity—bridging the past with a bold cultural future.

Prince Badr bin Farhan Al Saud’s Visionary Legacy

Discover the Sea's Silent Tressures

From sunken ships to sailor’s journals, our collection holds the hidden wonders of the Red Sea. Explore relics, crafts, ceremonial objects, textiles, and personal belongings that speak of a life shaped by wat

Explore the Collection

Visit the Red Sea Museum