For first-time attendees to veteran ravers here’s the full event guide to Jeddah’s Balad Beast 2025. Happening January 30-31 at the historic Al Balad district, the UNESCO World Heritage site will transform into a vibrant hub for music, art, and cultural celebration. The festival offers a thrilling mix of live performances, immersive visuals, and a connection to Saudi Arabia’s rich history.
Tickets are still available on NOFOMO from $80 (SAR299).
Event essentials: what you need to know
- Dates: January 30-31, 2025
- Location: Historic district of Al Balad, Jeddah
- Gates open: 4:00 PM
- Gates close: 2:00 AM
- Age requirement: 16+ (ID required)
- Tickets: Available through the NOFOMO app with single or two-day passes. Transfers can also be managed via the app.
On-site experience
The festival offers diverse food and beverage options catering to all dietary needs, though outside food and drinks are prohibited. Merchandise booths will feature exclusive festival items, and cashless payments will ensure smooth transactions. Note: there are no ATMs, lockers, or free Wi-Fi, so plan ahead.
Getting there and parking
General Admission and VIB ticket holders have access to parking. The parking area is a 10-minute walk from the venue. VIB ticket holders also enjoy complimentary shuttle services for added convenience.
Prohibited items
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, items such as weapons, outside food, large bags, and professional cameras are not allowed. For a detailed list, visit the official Balad Beast website.
EDMNOMAD’s Festival Must-Haves
EDMNOMAD’s Must-Haves for Balad Beast 2025
Balad Beast 2025 is more than just a festival—it’s a deep dive into music, culture, and community. To make the most of the experience, it’s essential to come prepared. With these essentials guide in hand, festivalgoers can focus on what matters most—soaking in the energy, the music, and the atmosphere of Balad Beast 2025. Here’s what every raver should bring and have on hand:
Comfortable Shoes and Insoles
Expect long hours on your feet, moving between stages and dancing non-stop. Supportive sneakers or boots with cushioned insoles will help keep you going.
Lip Balm and Sunscreen
Jeddah’s climate can be dry and intense, with temperatures between 25-35°C. Sunscreen with SPF 30+ is a must, along with lip balm to prevent chapping.
Dress for the Weather
Light, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen will keep you comfortable in the daytime heat. Loose-fitting clothing allows for airflow, and a light jacket can come in handy for cooler nights.
Modest and Respectful Attire
While Balad Beast is a progressive festival, respecting Saudi Arabia’s cultural norms is important. Women are advised to cover shoulders and knees, while men should avoid sleeveless tops.
Stay Hydrated
With high-energy performances and warm weather, dehydration is a real risk. Drink plenty of water and electrolyte-based drinks throughout the day to stay refreshed.
Earplugs for Hearing Protection
Prolonged exposure to loud music can take a toll. High-fidelity earplugs will reduce noise levels while keeping the sound quality intact.
Portable Charger
There are no public charging stations on-site, so a fully charged power bank ensures your phone stays powered for photos, directions, and festival updates.
Small Crossbody Bag
Security restrictions mean large bags aren’t allowed. A small, secure bag is ideal for carrying essentials like ID, cashless payment cards, and festival tickets.
Respect the Culture and Festival Rules
Balad Beast is as much about cultural appreciation as it is about music. Being mindful of local customs, respecting personal space, and following festival guidelines will enhance the experience for everyone.
Where to stay in Jeddah
Travelers attending Balad Beast 2025 can choose from several nearby hotels offering comfort and easy access to the festival, doubling as your travel guide, we recommend these hotels:
- Crowne Plaza Jeddah, an IHG Hotel: 5.2 km from Al Balad
- InterContinental Jeddah, an IHG Hotel: 5.0 km from Al Balad
- The Ritz-Carlton Jeddah: 6.1 km from Al Balad
- Mövenpick Hotel Tahlia Jeddah: 8.1 km from Al Balad
- Assila, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Jeddah: 8.3 km from Al Balad
A star-studded lineup
This year’s festival showcases over 70 artists across local, regional, and international stages. Global stars include Lost Frequencies, Mace Plex, Argy, Mau P, Metro Boomin, 21 Savage, Michael Kiwanuka, and Gunna. Saudi talents like Dish Dash and Baloo bring their signature styles, blending local sounds with electronic beats. Vinyl Mode will deliver vinyl-only sets that offer a nostalgic yet modern musical experience. Regional acts like Hamdi Ryder and Disco Misr bring their North African and disco-funk influences to the mix.
View the daily lineup here.
Multi-sensory experience
Balad Beast 2025 isn’t just about the music; it’s an immersive festival experience that engages all the senses. Highlights include:
- Exclusive merchandise: This year’s collection draws inspiration from Al Balad’s iconic Roshan windows and cats, featuring limited-edition Since 2087 x Hadeed jerseys celebrating Jeddah’s football culture.
- Pepsi activations: Dynamic on-site experiences from brands like Pepsi, Aquafina, and Gatorade add energy and excitement to the festival atmosphere.
Where music meets history
The festival takes place in Al Balad, part of the Historic Jeddah Revitalization Project, aligned with Saudi Vision 2030. The initiative preserves 638 heritage houses, 36 mosques, and several historic markets. It introduces new landmarks like Culture Square and the green spaces of Al-Arbaeen Lake Park. The project aims to attract millions of visitors annually while honoring Jeddah’s cultural significance.
As MDLBEAST CEO Ramadan Alharatani puts it, “Balad Beast is a truly unique music and art festival, blending Saudi culture with modern artistry in the heart of Jeddah’s UNESCO World Heritage district. By projecting incredibly crafted visuals on the historic buildings, we fuse traditional elements with cutting-edge stage production.”
Balad Beast 2025 offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to experience music, art, and history in Saudi Arabia’s iconic Al Balad. Get your tickets here.
