Saudi Gazette report

JEDDAH — Two Polish tourists attracted passersby by playing guitar on Qabil Street in the historic Balad district of Jeddah.

Many Saudis tweeted the event saying they never expected the phenomenon of street music coming to their city.

“This is a common view in the underground stations in Europe and America. I never expected in my wildest dream to see it in Jeddah,” one Saudi wrote on Twitter.

The tourists placed a signboard in front of them in which they said they were traveling around the world and they were in need of financial support.

Some shoppers along the historic street donated generously to them while others expressed their moral support.

A video clip showing the two tourists playing guitar went viral on social media.

“This is a positive change in the Saudi culture. This happens all over the world especially at airports and tube stations,” another Saudi tweeted.

Others hoped that they would be able to play Saudi songs and music in Europe and America and called for support to enable them to travel to Europe to play Saudi music to the Europeans.

“I thought for a moment that I was outside the Kingdom. I was surprised to see musicians play along a Saudi street,” said a Saudi.

Qabil Street, which used to take pilgrims from Jeddah port to Bab Makkah, is believed to be the first street in Jeddah’s economic history.

It still remains a center for pilgrims and visitors to the Old City.

The street, according to some shoppers, embodies the commercial secrets of the Red Sea coastal city. It has traditional cafes, perfume shops, money exchange offices and many other services.