Saudi Arabia · City Guide
Madinah
Madinah, the second holiest city in Islam, is the burial place of the Prophet Muhammad and home to Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, one of the largest and most important mosques in the world, visited by millions of Muslim pilgrims each year as part of Hajj, Umrah or simply as a visit to the Prophet's city. With its distinctive green dome, vast marble courtyards and the historic sites of early Islamic history surrounding it, Madinah provides a profound spiritual experience for Muslim travellers.
Elect's take
"Madinah has an atmosphere of calm devotion that is unlike anywhere else I have visited. The scale of Al-Masjid an-Nabawi is extraordinary, and the sense of history embedded in every part of the city — for those for whom this carries spiritual significance — creates an experience of genuine depth."
Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, the Prophet's Mosque, is one of the largest mosques in the world, capable of holding over a million worshippers during peak periods, with its famous Green Dome marking the location of the Prophet Muhammad's tomb. The mosque has been expanded repeatedly across Islamic history and its vast marble courtyards, shaded by enormous retractable umbrellas, provide a remarkable architectural experience. Quba Mosque, the first mosque built in Islam, and Mount Uhud, the site of a significant early Islamic battle, are both important historical sites accessible from the city. The Date Market of Madinah provides excellent local Ajwa dates, considered among the finest in the world. Access to Madinah for non-Muslims is restricted in accordance with Islamic law.
Best time to visit
How to get there
What to expect
Al-Masjid an-Nabawi
One of the largest mosques in the world and the burial place of the Prophet Muhammad.
Quba Mosque
The first mosque built in Islam, an important early Islamic historical site.
Mount Uhud
The site of a significant early Islamic battle with deep historical and spiritual resonance.
Madinah Dates
Ajwa dates from Madinah are considered among the finest in the world.
Haramain High Speed Rail
A modern high speed rail connection between Madinah, Makkah and Jeddah.
Pilgrimage Significance
A profound spiritual destination for Muslim travellers undertaking Hajj, Umrah or visit.
