Madinah, also known as Medina, is revered as the second holiest city in Islam, after Makkah, and offers a profound spiritual experience for pilgrims. However, its appeal extends beyond religious boundaries, offering a rich tapestry of history, culture, and modern luxury.
Nestled in the Hejaz region of western Saudi Arabia, Madinah is a city that seamlessly blends its ancient heritage with modern luxury. Known as the “City of the Prophet,” it is home to the Prophet Muhammad’s Mosque, Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, a site of immense religious significance. For high-end clients, Madinah offers a unique opportunity to immerse in a serene spiritual atmosphere while enjoying the comforts of luxury accommodations and services.
The city has a rich tradition in date cultivation and commerce, which is deeply rooted in its culture and economy. The Madinah date market is renowned for offering a wide array of dates, including the highly esteemed Ajwa dates, known for their soft, luscious texture and fruity flavour. The market is not only a hub for buying and selling dates but also serves as a cultural meeting point where the traditional hospitality of Madinah is on full display. Places like Arwa al Madina for dates and Barkat al Madinah Dates shops are popular among locals and visitors for their quality products and reasonable prices.
The Blessed Valley
Wadi Al-Aqeeq, referred to as the “Blessed Valley” by Prophet Muhammad, also holds significant religious and historical importance in Islam. This valley, which runs along the western boundary of Madinah, is not only a site of historical interest due to its connection to early Islamic figures but also a beautiful natural area that has been environmentally rehabilitated to include promenades, leisure, and educational areas for residents and visitors. The valley begins some 30 km south of Madinah and stretches for about 52 km, featuring lush vegetation and a rich history that dates back to the Abbasid and Umayyad eras. Notable landmarks include the Miqat Dhul Hulaifah Masjid and the Castle of Urwah bin Zubair, highlighting the valley’s importance as both a spiritual and historical site.
Ottoman vestiges
The Ottoman Empire’s influence in Madinah is evident in several historical sites, one of the most notable being the old railway station. This station was part of the Hejaz Railway, which connected Madinah to Damascus and was a significant feat of engineering and infrastructure during the Ottoman period. The railway station has been preserved as a museum, allowing visitors to explore the rich history of the Ottoman Empire’s presence in the region and its impact on the development and connectivity of Madinah.
Cultural and Historical Exploration
Beyond its religious significance, Madinah offers a wealth of cultural and historical sites for those interested in the rich tapestry of Islamic and Arabian history.
Quba Mosque
Quba Mosque holds the distinction of being the first mosque in Islam’s history. Established by Prophet Muhammad himself in 622 CE, its significance extends beyond its religious functions as a site of worship. It’s a pivotal monument that offers a unique window into the origins of Islamic heritage. Visitors to Quba Mosque are often struck by the profound sense of history that the mosque embodies.
It has been renovated and expanded numerous times over the centuries, yet it retains a deep connection to its origins. The mosque is not just a historical landmark; it remains an active place of worship and is highly revered, with many making the journey to offer two Rak’ahs of nafl prayer, following the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad.
As Safiyyah Museum & Park
In Madinah’s Central Area south of the Prophet’s Mosque, adjacent to the Pullman Zamzam Madinah hotel, lies the newly opened Al-Safiyyah Museum & Park development that aims to deliver an integrated cultural complex consistent reflecting the holy city’s identity. The project is supervised by the Madinah Region Development Authority and spans 4,419 sq m.
The Al-Safiyyah Museum & Park represents a “new source of civilization and knowledge” and a distinctive mark in the history of Madinah. The project was developed in partnership with the private sector, to make it an attractive tourist destination enhanced with cultural, recreational and commercial elements for the visitors to the Prophet’s Mosque, in an environment inspired by Madinah’s urban identity.
Al-Safiyyah Museum & Park aims to improve Madinah’s cultural offering, enrich the experience of the pilgrims visiting the city, and improve local quality of life.
Madinah Arts Center
The Madinah Arts Center stands as a vibrant cultural beacon in the heart of Madinah, offering a dynamic platform for artistic expression and cultural exchange. This centre plays a crucial role in nurturing the local arts scene, providing a space where artists and art enthusiasts can come together to explore, create, and appreciate diverse forms of art. With its modern facilities, the center hosts a variety of exhibitions, workshops, and performances, showcasing the talents of both emerging and established artists.
Beyond its function as an exhibition space, the Madinah Arts Center is dedicated to educational initiatives, offering workshops and classes that cater to all ages and skill levels. These programs are designed to foster creativity, encourage artistic exploration, and enhance cultural appreciation among the community. The center’s commitment to promoting art and culture within Madinah makes it a vital institution, contributing to the city’s cultural richness and providing a nurturing environment for the arts to flourish. Through its diverse offerings, the Madinah Arts Center not only celebrates the artistic heritage of the region but also serves as a bridge connecting the past with the contemporary artistic landscape.
Al-Madinah Museum
Al-Madinah Museum is an essential cultural institution that encapsulates the history, culture, and art of Madinah, providing an extensive overview of the region’s rich heritage. It houses a myriad of exhibits that chronicle the Islamic civilization, the life of the Prophet Muhammad, and the city’s evolution over the ages. Artifacts, manuscripts, and interactive displays tell the story of the city’s significance as a religious, political, and cultural center. The museum serves as an educational hub for visitors and locals alike, seeking to understand the profound and layered history of Madinah and its impact on the wider Islamic world. Through its curated collection, the museum also celebrates the city’s present-day vibrancy and its role as a guardian of Islamic traditions.
Hejaz Railway Museum
The Hejaz Railway Museum is dedicated to preserving the legacy of the historic Hejaz Railway. This railway was a remarkable feat of engineering and ambition, connecting Damascus to Madinah and facilitating the movement of pilgrims to the holy cities. The museum offers a comprehensive look at the railway’s construction, its role in the socio-economic development of the region, and its historical significance during the Ottoman Empire.
Visitors can explore a collection of original rolling stock, historical photographs, and artifacts that provide an immersive experience of the railway’s storied past. The museum not only pays homage to this once-vital means of transportation but also educates on the technological and cultural connections it fostered.
Luxury Experiences
High-end clients can indulge in exclusive experiences that blend cultural immersion with unparalleled comfort.
Private Tours: Personalised tours of Madinah’s holy sites, historical landmarks, and hidden gems, led by knowledgeable guides.
Spa Retreats: Luxuriate in sumptuous spa treatments that incorporate traditional Middle Eastern wellness practices, available at top hotels.
Desert Excursions: Experience the majestic beauty of the Arabian desert with a luxury safari, complete with a traditional Bedouin feast under the stars.
Shopping
Madinah is not just a spiritual and cultural hub but also a shopping destination with luxurious malls and boutiques offering high-end brands, traditional crafts, and exquisite jewellery.
Al Noor Mall: Home to a range of international brands, fine dining options, and entertainment facilities, offering a comprehensive luxury shopping experience.
Taiba Commercial Centre: Located near the Prophet’s Mosque, this centre offers a mix of luxury goods and traditional handicrafts, perfect for unique souvenirs.
Quba Avenue, a cultural landmark that attracts Prophet’s Mosque and Madinah visitors
Quba Avenue stands as a pulsating hub of culture in Madinah, drawing both residents and pilgrims who have visited the sacred Prophet’s and Quba mosques. With the arrival of Ramadan, the avenue transforms into a magnet for the faithful and sightseers alike, offering a kaleidoscope of activities, retail options, and attractions that boost its appeal.
The convenience of having the Prophet’s and Quba mosques within a stone’s throw enhances Quba Avenue’s charm. More than just a bustling locale, it provides a tranquil space for post-prayer strolls. A spacious 3-kilometer pedestrian pathway, connecting the two holy mosques, invites serene ambulation amidst the spiritual fervour of the city. The thoughtfully constructed walkway is replete with facilities designed to serve the community’s needs.
Beyond its liveliness, Quba Avenue encapsulates the historic essence and artistic spirit of Madinah. The concerted efforts by the Madinah Region Development Authority to preserve and elevate the avenue’s cultural and architectural distinctiveness are evident. Each building facade has been meticulously crafted to offer an inviting and eco-conscious environment, enriching the avenue’s contribution to Madinah’s cultural tapestry.
Top 5 Hotels
Madinah boasts a range of high-end hotels that cater to discerning travellers, many of which are conveniently located near Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, offering easy access to the mosque and its serene courtyards.
Sofitel Shahd Al Madinah Hotel
Sofitel Shahd Al Madinah Hotel is a luxury five-star hotel at the doorstep of Mosque of Prophet Alehe Salam in blessed Al Madinah Al Munawarah. It is located right next to the ladies’ gate of Mosque of Prophet Alehe Salam.
Variety of spacious luxury rooms & suites are tailor-made for couples, and families. Their all-day dining restaurant, Arabesque, serves sumptuous buffet experience with cuisine from around the world.
Dar Al Iman Intercontinental
While specific recent details about Dar Al Iman Intercontinental weren’t found in the latest sources, it is known for its proximity to Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, offering luxurious rooms and suites with direct views of the Holy Mosque.
This hotel is renowned for providing high-quality accommodations and services to pilgrims and tourists, making it a preferred choice for those seeking comfort and convenience during their spiritual journey in Madinah.
Anwar Al Madinah Mövenpick Hotel
The Anwar al Madinah Mövenpick Hotel stands as the most expansive accommodation in Madinah, boasting a five-star rating and a plethora of amenities suited for families, solo voyagers, and groups seeking leisure. Positioned closest to the Prophet’s Mosque and near Madinah’s prime sites, this opulent hotel is seamlessly connected to a shopping centre and provides underground parking for its visitors.
Nestled in the heart of the commercial zone, the hotel is a stone’s throw away from Masjid Al Nabawi, particularly near the entrance designated for women’s prayers, making it an ideal spot for both spiritual and business journeys due to its airport proximity.
Pullman Zamzam Madina
Pullman Zamzam Madina recently opened its doors to offer unparalleled peace and a warm Arabic welcome for pilgrims to this holy sanctuary.
This new 5-star hotel is a few minutes’ walk to Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, where visitors can pray in the Holy Rawdah. This central, green-carpeted area, known as one of the gardens of Paradise, lies between the Minbar of Prophet Mohamed (PBUH) and His Blessed House. Prophet Mohamed (PBUH) and his two companions (may Allah be pleased with them) are laid to rest under the inspiring Green Dome, visible from the hotel. Al Salam Gate of Al-Masjid an-Nabawi and Al-Baqi Cemetery are also just steps away.
Each of the 835 upscale modern rooms and suites is elegantly decorated. Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi provides seamless connectivity. Whether travelling alone or with family, global nomads have plenty of room to relax, enjoy and pray.
The Oberoi
Given a full refurbishment in 2023, the Oberoi, Madina is a destination of choice for royalty, global entrepreneurs and celebrities. It enjoys an unrivalled position just steps away from the Prophet’s Mosque, and offers unforgettable views of the mosque’s green dome and the canopied courtyards of pilgrims at prayer.
Luxurious accommodation with multiple, magnificent bathrooms. All day restaurants offering a range of handcrafted cuisines. Large, efficient lifts so that you and your family can reach the tomb of the Prophet Muhammed, peace be upon him, effortlessly. The largest banqueting halls in the city. Coupled with our warm, attentive hospitality for the trip of a lifetime and an unforgettable stay at the best hotel in Madina.
Eating Out
Madinah’s culinary scene offers a delightful mix of traditional Saudi Arabian dishes and international cuisine, prepared by world-class chefs to satisfy the most refined palates.
Al Majeedi ARAC Suites: This dining destination is known for its gourmet experiences, offering a blend of Middle Eastern and international cuisines in an opulent setting.
The Oberoi, Madinah: The hotel’s restaurants serve a variety of exquisite dishes, from local specialties to Asian and Western cuisines, all prepared with the finest ingredients.
Transport
Flying into Madinah is a convenient and accessible option for travellers from around the globe, thanks to the Prince Mohammed Bin Abdulaziz International Airport (MED), the city’s main gateway. This airport serves as a hub for both international and domestic flights, connecting Madinah to major cities worldwide.
International and Domestic Flights
International Connections: The airport hosts a number of international airlines that provide direct and connecting flights from various parts of the world, including the Middle East, Asia, Europe, and Africa. During the Hajj and Umrah seasons, many airlines also operate special charter flights to accommodate the influx of pilgrims.
Domestic Flights: For travellers within Saudi Arabia, there are frequent domestic flights to and from major cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam, making Madinah easily accessible from anywhere within the country.
Airlines Serving Madinah
Several major airlines operate flights to and from Madinah, ensuring a range of options for travellers in terms of service, budget, and scheduling:
Saudia (Saudi Arabian Airlines): The national carrier offers extensive domestic and international flights, providing convenient options for reaching Madinah.
Flyadeal, Flynas: These low-cost Saudi airlines offer budget-friendly options for domestic travel within Saudi Arabia.
International Carriers: Airlines such as Emirates, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, and EgyptAir, among others, provide international connectivity, linking Madinah with global destinations.
Airport Facilities and Services
Prince Mohammed Bin Abdulaziz International Airport is equipped with modern facilities and services designed to cater to the needs of international travellers:
VIP and Lounge Services: For high-end clients, the airport offers VIP services and exclusive lounges, ensuring a comfortable and seamless travel experience.
Duty-Free and Dining: The airport features a selection of duty-free shops, offering luxury goods, souvenirs, and local delicacies. There are also various dining options available, ranging from cafes to full-service restaurants.
Ground transport: Upon arrival, travellers can avail themselves of a variety of transport options, including private limousines, taxis, and car rental services, to reach their accommodations in Madinah. Some luxury hotels also offer private shuttle services for their guests.
High speed trains from Jeddah
The high-speed trains serving Madinah represent a modern transportation marvel in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, seamlessly connecting the historic city to various parts of the country with efficiency and comfort.
One of the key services is the Haramain High-Speed Railway, which facilitates swift and convenient travel between Madinah and cities like Mecca, Jeddah, and King Abdullah Economic City.
With trains capable of reaching speeds up to 300 kilometres per hour, the railway significantly reduces travel time, making it especially beneficial for pilgrims and tourists visiting the holy sites. The sleek, state-of-the-art trains are equipped with amenities designed for comfort, including spacious seating, Wi-Fi access, and dining options.
This high-speed rail network fully enhances the Hajj and Umrah experience by providing a reliable, fast, and comfortable journey for the faithful.
Arrival Tips
Visa Requirements: International travellers should check visa requirements for entry into Saudi Arabia. Many nationalities can apply for an e-visa or visa on arrival for tourism purposes.
Dress Code: Respectful attire is recommended, particularly when visiting religious sites.
Madinah offers a profound journey that touches the soul and delights the senses, making it a unique destination for high-end travellers seeking both spiritual depth and worldly luxury.
Photo top of page: Haidan
