Along the banks of the Red Sea is a major seaport called Yanbu. This modern city is just a few hours north of Jeddah, and among its 200,000 residents are oil workers from around the world. Along with a heavy emphasis on industry and development, Yanbu's picturesque location provides white sandy beaches, warm waters, and an ideal location for scuba diving among untouched coral reefs. As a historic seaport along the route between Egypt and Yemen, Yanbu has played a major role in various world even
ts such as the surrender of the Ottoman Empire at the end of World War I. The modern city is divided into three separate sections: the downtown residential and shopping area, the more rural farming area, and the industrial oil area which also includes residences. Throughout all three parts of the city, visitors will find lakes, green parks, waterfront areas, and a view of the towering Radwa Mountain. Visitors can also access the two holy cities of Mecca and Medina by using Yanbu as a base and entry point into the country, and each year the Yanbu Flower Festival thrills nature lovers from all over, increasing the city's international profile.