JEDDAH: In the heart of Al-Qadimah village, south of Rabigh governorate in Saudi Arabia’s western province of Makkah, the captivating ruins of the old market, with its mud-brick houses and shops, bear witness to a vibrant commercial and social era that once defined the region.
The market site offers a glimpse into a time when Al-Qadimah was a bustling center attracting both locals and trade caravans from Makkah, Madinah, and Yanbu.
Located on the coastal road between Jeddah and Rabigh, Al-Qadimah was a crucial ancient village, serving as a major trading and supply station for both sea and land caravans. It likely functioned as a vital link where people exchanged goods and local products between the desert and the coast.
The old Al-Qadimah market formed the economic heart of the region. Its mud-brick shops were arranged in two facing rows, interspersed with narrow alleyways that teemed with daily activity.
Products sold included grains, dates, clothing, fabrics, and essential fishing and seafaring equipment, the latter being integral to the identity of the coastal inhabitants.
