Bayt Sharbatly: From Diplomacy to Cultural Legacy

Bayt Sharbatly is one of Historic Jeddah’s most recognizable mansions. Built in 1935, this elegant residence combines architectural beauty with a layered diplomatic and cultural past.

Located in a prime area of Historic Jeddah, the home stands out for its size, function, and dramatic façade. Its sweeping roshan windows and carved woodwork make it one of the district’s most photographed houses.

The mansion was completed in 1354 AH / 1935 CE by architect Sadaga bin Mohammed Karkashan. His design reflects a careful balance of traditional craftsmanship and formal structure suited for diplomatic use.

Bayt Sharbatly served as the Egyptian Embassy in Jeddah for twenty years. This gave the house not just residential value, but political importance within the city’s diplomatic landscape.

The exterior features layers of intricately carved wooden balconies and rawasheen, typical of the region but grander in scale. These architectural elements offer both ventilation and privacy, while showcasing local craftsmanship.

The main entrance is framed with finely carved Islamic motifs. These decorative features are not only aesthetic, but also reflect cultural identity and traditional symbolism in the region's architecture.

After its diplomatic chapter, the house became the property of the Sharbatly family, who opened it up for national and cultural events. It continues to play a role in local heritage programming.

Today, the house stands as one of the best-preserved 20th-century homes in Historic Jeddah, symbolizing the evolution of domestic architecture, civic use, and regional pride.