Madinah is a holy site that attracts millions of visitors each year. It is the second most religiously significant city in Islam and lies 400 kilometers north of Mecca. Devotees flock to Madinah for religious reasons but this city is famous for both religious and tourist purposes. There are many places to visit in Medina where one can discover the culture and history. There is no dearth of attractions that add to its opulence. Located in western Saudi Arabia, the city is home to the Prophet Muhammad Mosque which makes it one of the most exquisite sites in the Muslim world.
Top 8 Places to See in Medina For Awakening The Senses
- Al-Masjid An-Nabawi
- The Desert of Saleh
- Quba Mosque
- Al Noor Mall
- Old Market Madinah
- Yanbu
- Wadi Al-Baida
- Al-Madinah Museum
Madinah, the land of spirituality and bliss, is also famous for its untouched beauty and rich hospitality. The city has no dearth of places to welcome people from all walks of life. With millions of tourists visiting this city as pilgrims or tourists, Madinah has become a hub for all globetrotters. If you have listed this city of mosques and praters on your bucket list, we have gathered some top attractions you can explore to keep yourself entertained and connected to its core.
1. Al-Masjid An-Nabawi
The Prophet's Mosque, also known as Al-Masjid An-Nabawi, was the second location established by the Holy Prophet after he relocated from Makkah to Madinah in the first year of Hijra. It is one of the most important religious places in Madinah for devotees. During their Umrah and Hajj journeys, millions of people visit the Prophet's Mosque to pray. It is usually open regardless of time or day.
The Prophet established it as a place for prayers for Muslims, instead of Makkah due to the security situation there at that time. As you enter through one of its two gates on either side, you will see several large domes surrounding a courtyard covered by an enormous green dome decorated with gold. There is a garden called Gardens of Paradise, which is located between the Prophet Muhammad’s house and pulpit. Non-Muslims are not allowed to enter the masjid, to maintain religious significance and sanity.
- Location: Al Haram, Medina 42311, Saudi Arabia
2. The Desert of Saleh
For those who want to witness the charm of nature, the desert of Saleh is one of the most beautiful tourist places in Medina. The desert of Saleh is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its golden sublime terrains and amazing tomography. It is located south of Al Nafud and is a breathtaking sight throughout the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This pre-Islamic archaeological site is one of numerous that have been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, because of the various artwork and inscriptions on its walls, as well as massive tombs and cemeteries. The tombs are built with carvings depicting the Nabatean Kingdom which makes them worth exploring. The massive tombs here are some of the most well preserved historical places to visit in Medina, Saudi Arabia, and are among the best you'll find anywhere in Arabia. With the relics of medieval civilizations, it's considered a must-see tourist destination in Saudi Arabia one can explore.
Location: Al Madinah Region, Al-Hejaz, Saudi Arabia
3. Quba Mosque
The Quba Mosque was built in the town of Quba, 6 kilometers from Madinah. It is thought that this is the world's first mosque, dating back to the time of the Holy Prophet in the 7th century CE. There is a legend associated with it that makes it a religious and historical attraction in Medina. When Prophet Muhammad was en route from Makkah to Madinah, he stopped at this mosque. Quba Mosque is the second largest mosque in Madinah today. This historic mosque attracts a lot of pilgrims during the times of pilgrimage as well as after their pilgrimage has been completed, as religious significance is associated with this sacred place.
The small room that he used for praying can still be found in the mosque today. This is the first mosque in existence and is considered a historical site for Muslims around the world who visit it every year during their pilgrimage to Mecca known as Hajj.
Location: 3493 Al Hijrah Rd, Al Khatim, Medina 42318, Saudi Arabia
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4. Al Noor Mall
Shoppers, this one is for you. Al Noor Mall is a top attraction in Medina, attracting around 150,000 people each week. This mall features eateries, international stores, and Family Entertainment. Spark's Family Entertainment is a great place for the whole family to enjoy the Saudi Arabia holiday. Enjoy the rides, ice skating rink, and bowling alley with your kids and shop for the best fashion accessories. In addition to top-name brands like Burberry, Ralph Lauren, and Lacoste, there are a variety of local shops that provide the chance to find traditional Arabic clothing and jewelry.
Al Noor Mall is always packed with tourists during Ramadan and it is among the perfect places to go in Madinah with families to enjoy the holy month together. The mall also hosts some events and fests for the public.
Location: King Abdullah Branch Rd, Al'uyun, Medina 42331, Saudi Arabia
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5. Old Market Madinah
Shopping in Saudi Arabia can be quite exciting and engaging. While there are malls and other fancy shopping complexes, a trip down the Old Bazaar's narrow streets can be quite fascinating. It is always crowded because it is located on one of Madinah's main streets. This market has everything from one-of-a-kind Arabian products and beautiful decorations to gifts for family back home which makes it one of the best tourist places in Medina. You can buy gifts for relatives and friends back home at the Old Market in Madinah. Visiting the Old Bazaar is an out-of-this-world experience as you search for souvenirs, Islamic decorations, and one-of-a-kind Arabian products.
During weekends, it's a terrific area to go exploring. Here you can find a variety of unique themes, bright graphics, and Arabian products. It is said that each product at the market contains the light of faith, love, and valor.
Location: Medina, Al Madinah Province
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6. Yanbu
Among the top beaches in Saudi, Yanbu is a paradise hidden in Madinah. Listed among the must-visit places in Madina, Yanbu can be best for a leisure day, taking a break from the regular tours and activities. It is a popular tourist destination and the ideal beach retreat from the city because of its beautiful beaches, water sports, and aquatic surroundings. Enjoy an exciting day at Yanbu Beach while participating in water sports such as scuba diving, sailing, fishing, and jet-skiing.
Yanbu is not just a captivating beach near Madinah but also a stunning place to explore. Yanbu-al-Bahr is a harbor city located approximately 120 miles from Madinah. The city was formerly a major harbor, and visitors can still witness remnants of its history in its typical fisherman's cottages. You can spend a day or two enjoying some time at peace and rejuvenating your mind.
Location: Yanbu, Medina
7. Wadi Al-Baida
The Holy City of Mecca is located in the middle of the Arabian desert and is known to be the best place in the Middle East for a holiday. While there are many places to visit in Medina, it is the Wadi Al-Baida which is quite a fascinating place to discover. Wadi Al-Baida is approximately 41 kilometers northwest of Madinah, attracting a million visitors each year from all over the world. Here vehicles move in the reverse direction automatically and locals believe this is due to the power of the Jinn in the valley, but geologists call it 'reverse gravity which is also visible in other areas. Wadi Al-Baida's history can be discovered in the earliest Islamic texts, which demonstrate that it has always been a place for humans and Jinn to coexist.
Travel expert Faris Alfaradhi says, "Its history can be discovered in the earliest Islamic texts, which demonstrate the presence of a Jin," he adds. "There are numerous stories that discuss them. Most people believe they coexist with humans."
Location: 8110, Medina Saudi Arabia
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8. Al-Madinah Museum
If you are a history buff, Al-Madinah Museum is one of the best places to see in Medina. While there are many famous historic landmarks in the city, this is quite a significant place you can explore. The Madinah Historical Museum is an Islamic Museum located in the Al-Balad district of Madinah city, Saudi Arabia. This is the first museum in the city and is located in the Madinah Knowledge Economic City on King Abdul Road. It was built to preserve and display the city's rich Islamic and archaeological heritage as well as for tourists who visit Madinah. It houses at least 2000 artifacts illustrating the vibrant Islamic heritage. The museum collection includes manuscripts, carpets, woodwork (handcrafts), and weapons that date back to the time of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). The Sculptures and Periodicals on the history of Madinah are something that will take you back in time.
- Location: Safwan Ibn Malik Al Tamimi al Mabuth
Medina is a great place to visit for a holiday, with plenty of places to see and things to do. You can explore some of the best places to visit in Medina for a complete holiday experience while discovering the culture, religion, and beliefs of the place. You can plan a Saudi tour and discover the spirituality and soothing aura of the place which is known to be a major Islamic pilgrimage site. From mosques and heritage sites to malls and shopping markets, there is a lot to explore and engage in.
FAQ’s
Medina is known for its religious and cultural sites that say a lot about the history of the place. Some of the best places to visit in Medina are:
- Al-Masjid An-Nabawi
- The Desert of Saleh
- Al Noor Mall
- Old Market Madinah
- Wadi Al-Baida
The desert of Saleh is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its golden sublime terrains and amazing tomography. It is located south of Al Nafud and is a breathtaking sight throughout the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Al- Madinah Madinah museum is famous for its rich display of Islamic and archaeological heritage as well as for tourists who visit Madinah. This is an Islamic Museum located in the Al-Balad district of Madinah city, Saudi Arabia, and also is the first museum in the city.
At Wadi Al-Baida, vehicles move in reverse direction automatically and locals believe this is due to the power of the Jinn in the valley. The geologists call it the 'reverse gravity phenomenon', which is also visible in other areas. The history of the place can be discovered in the earliest Islamic texts, which demonstrate that humans and Jinn coexist.
Madinah is called the land of spirituality and bliss as this is the city where Muhammad fled when he was initially driven out of Mecca. It is the second holiest site in Islam which means the "City of the Prophet.
Yes, Yanbu is a beach paradise hidden in Madinah and is the best place for a leisure day. It is a popular tourist destination and the ideal beach retreat from the city because of its beautiful beaches, water sports, and aquatic surroundings.
If you want some traditional shopping experience the Old Bazaar's narrow streets can be quite fascinating. This market has everything from one-of-a-kind Arabian products and beautiful decorations to gifts for family back home.
Al Noor mall features eateries, international stores, and Family Entertainment to engage people. You can enjoy the rides, ice skating rink, and bowling alley with your kids and shop for the best fashion accessories. The mall also hosts some events and fests for the public.
