Jeddah King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) is a major Saudi Arabian hub, crucial for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims. It operates 24/7 with three main terminals: the modern Terminal 1, the South Terminal, and the Hajj Terminal. Terminal 1 offers improved amenities, including Wassan Lounge sleep pods, Wellcome Lounge sleep rooms, and Aerotel sleep pods, catering to various layover needs. Despite these facilities, passengers often face noise, cold temperatures, and limited seating. Issues with cleanliness and service quality persist.
For long layovers, the transit hotel or nearby budget-friendly hotels with shuttle services are recommended. Passengers should bring earplugs, warm clothing, and snacks to manage mixed conditions effectively.
Jeddah Airport Hours and Policies
The airport is open 24 hours a day, and overnight sleeping is permitted. However, the experience can vary greatly depending on the terminal and the amenities available. The airport has three main terminals: Terminal 1 (the new terminal), the South Terminal, and the Hajj Terminal. For this guide, we will focus on Terminal 1, as it is the most modern and well-equipped for layovers.
Sleeping Options and Amenities at Jeddah Airport
Airside (Post-Security)
- Saudia Lounge:
- Access: Available for business-class passengers and those who purchase entry.
- Amenities: Comfortable seating, food and beverage options, Wi-Fi, and showers.
- Note: The lounge can be very cold, so bring a sweater or blanket.
- Sleeping Spots:
- Near Gate A7:
- Features: Several seats without armrests that can be used for lying down.
- Conditions: Moderate noise levels; earplugs recommended.
- Near Gate B10:
- Features: Quiet corner with low foot traffic, providing a peaceful environment.
- Conditions: Limited power outlets; bring a portable charger.
- Near Gate C4:
- Features: Close to restrooms and a small café, making it convenient for refreshments.
- Conditions: Can get busy during peak hours; best for short naps.
- Near Gate A7:
Landside (Pre-Security)
- Cafés and Restaurants:
- Various 24/7 dining options are available, providing a place to rest and refresh.
- Options include coffee stands and fast food outlets like Domino’s and local eateries.
- Seating Areas:
- Near Entrance 2:
- Features: Multiple rows of chairs, some without armrests.
- Conditions: High traffic area; suitable for short rests.
- Near the Information Desk:
- Features: Quiet area with fewer people passing through.
- Conditions: Limited seating; arrive early to secure a spot.
- Near Entrance 2:
Designated Sleep Zones
Unfortunately, Jeddah Airport lacks designated sleep zones. Although Sleepinginairports.net notes that there are four ‘inclined chairs’ in Terminal 1, the amenities do not meet the description of a fully equipped designated rest zone. However, there are some alternatives:
- Transit Hotel:
- Location: Within the security zone of Terminal 1.
- Access: Allows passengers to check in without clearing immigration.
- Amenities: Comfortable rooms, showers, and a quiet sleeping environment.
- Nearby Hotels:
- Al Basmah Coral Resort: Located 10 km from the airport, offering free shuttle service and budget-friendly rates.
- Holiday Inn Jeddah Gateway: Approximately 8 km from the airport with a free shuttle service, known for its affordable rates and good amenities.
Best Sleeping Spots in Terminal 1 at JED Airport
- Gate Areas:
- Near Gate D5:
- Features: Less crowded area with several chairs without armrests.
- Conditions: Quiet during late hours; suitable for overnight stays.
- Near Gate E2:
- Features: Close to charging stations and restrooms.
- Conditions: Moderate noise levels; earplugs and eye masks recommended.
- Near Gate D5:
- Quiet Corners:
- End of Concourse F:
- Features: Secluded area with minimal traffic.
- Conditions: Ideal for longer naps; bring a travel blanket for warmth.
- Behind the Information Kiosk:
- Features: Hidden spot with fewer disturbances.
- Conditions: Limited seating; best for travelers with sleeping pads or inflatable mattresses.
- End of Concourse F:
Sleeping Conditions
- Noise: The airport can be noisy, especially with frequent announcements. Earplugs or noise-canceling headphones are recommended.
- Temperature: The terminal can get quite cold due to strong air conditioning. Pack a sweater or travel blanket.
- Security: Generally safe, but always keep an eye on personal belongings. Choose sleeping spots near security personnel for added safety.
- Amenities: Limited options for charging devices, so bring a portable charger. Bathrooms can be crowded and cleanliness may vary.
Additional Tips
- Wi-Fi: Available but can be challenging to connect without a local number. Consider purchasing a temporary SIM card for internet access.
- Food and Drinks: Limited and sometimes overpriced. It’s wise to bring snacks and water.
- Restrooms: Can be crowded and not always clean. Utilize them during off-peak hours for better conditions.
Hotels & Sleep Pods at JED Airport for Longer Layover Sleep:
Jeddah King Abdulaziz International Airport offers various sleep solutions for transit passengers. The Wassan Lounge sleep pods provide a private and soundproof experience, ideal for shorter rest periods.
The Wellcome Lounge sleep rooms offer a more spacious and comfortable environment for longer stays. For those landside, the Aerotel sleep pods offer a quick and convenient rest option. Booking in advance is recommended to ensure availability, and it’s always wise to carry personal essentials like earplugs and a travel blanket for added comfort.
Aerotel Sleep Pods
Location: Landside, Terminal 1
Features:
- Compact Pods: Designed for short naps and quick rest periods.
- Amenities: Pods come with a reclining chair that converts to a flat surface, reading light, USB ports, and a small personal storage area.
- Environment: Basic soundproofing to reduce ambient noise.
- Lighting: Adjustable reading light within the pod.
Access:
- Eligibility: Open to all passengers; particularly convenient for those with landside access only.
- Booking: First-come, first-served basis, or pre-booking via the Aerotel website.
- Duration: Short-term rentals, typically available by the hour.
Conditions:
- Temperature: Air-conditioned area with standard settings.
- Noise: Moderate noise reduction; earplugs recommended for light sleepers.
- Security: Public area with standard airport security, but no personal lockers; keep valuables close.
2. Mena Airport Hotel Jeddah
- Location: Southern Departure Hall, King Abdulaziz International Airport
- Features: Close proximity to the airport with convenient access for travelers. The hotel offers comfortable rooms and standard amenities for a restful stay.
- Pros: Convenient location, comfortable rooms, good for short stays.
- Cons: Limited availability during peak travel times, may require advance booking.
3. Crowne Plaza Jeddah al Salam
- Location: 2.1 miles from King Abdulaziz International Airport
- Features: Offers luxurious accommodations with extensive amenities, including dining options, fitness centers, and meeting rooms.
- Pros: High-quality amenities, comfortable and spacious rooms, excellent service.
- Cons: Slightly further from the airport, may require a short taxi or shuttle ride.
4. Holiday Inn Jeddah Gateway
- Location: 3.9 miles from King Abdulaziz International Airport
- Features: Offers modern rooms with amenities like free Wi-Fi, a business center, and dining options.
- Pros: Modern facilities, good value for money, convenient location with easy access to the airport.
- Cons: Requires a short ride to the airport, which may not be ideal for very short layovers.
Summary
Jeddah King Abdulaziz International Airport offers basic sleep solutions for layover passengers. While the new Terminal 1 provides some modern amenities, the overall experience can be challenging due to noise, temperature, and limited sleeping spots. For those with longer layovers, utilizing the transit hotel or nearby budget-friendly hotels is recommended. Always be prepared with essentials like earplugs, warm clothing, and snacks to make your stay as comfortable as possible.
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