A Comprehensive Medina, Saudi Arabia Travel Guide

You’re chosen as gifted to be able to travel to Medina, as this city of the Holy Prophet PBUH has been a merciful blessing for everyone who visits it. The final resting abode of the Holy Prophet, in the second-holiest site of Islam, Masjid Al Nabawi, is located here. The capital city of Medina Province, once a little barren town, is today radiant and full of lively atmosphere.

Strolling around the streets of Medina, you’ll experience the modern markets, filled with cafes and restaurants that offer various delicacies. However, the roots are still found deep in their cultural heritage, as indicated by the echoes of Azan (call to prayer). In this guide, you’ll get insights into the city of Medina. There’s so much to do here, including places of cultural significance, shopping, and entertainment activities. Let’s explore it all!

Medina, the holy city of Saudi Arabia, is located in the Western region of Hejaz, Province of Medina. Also known as “Tayyaba,” meaning The Pure, and “Medina Al Munawwara,” which translates to The Illuminated City. In old times, before the Holy Prophet’s migration, it was known as Yathrib. The Holy Prophet PBUH later changed its name to Medina, which reflects a more blessed and refined meaning.

Housing the three famous mosques in Islam—Masjid Al Nabawi, Masjid E Qiblatayn, and Masjid E Quba—the latter holds religious significance for being the first mosque in Islam built by the Prophet himself.

As you explore the surrounding areas just minutes away from Masjid al-Nabawi, you'll quickly notice that Medina exudes a warm and hospitable aura. After returning from your prayers on foot, you'll find it easy to navigate through nearby neighborhoods by strolling along the city's streets and alleys. From historic quarters to modern districts, Medina offers a rich blend of tradition and vibrant community life. Let's take a closer look at some of the most well-known neighborhoods in Medina and what makes each one special!

The name denotes the mosque that was built here by the Holy Prophet, Masjid Quba. Visitors often pay attention to this place when they come to Medina and then carry on their journey, although that’s not essential for everyone. Quba is a place that emanates tranquility, away from the hustling, busy town of Medina. The transportation system allows easy access to travel across towns and interact purposefully. It has huge palm trees that witness the calmness of this neighborhood. Families come and visit the cafes to relish local delicacies, and children adore the fountains splashing water happily.

Navigating through the heart of the city, Al-Haram gives the much-revered space to the great Masjid Al Nabawi. The captivating sight of green domes and white minarets fathoms the color of prosperity, peace, and purity. It also makes it distinguished as the resting place of Prophet Muhammad PBUH and his close companions Abu Bakr (RA) and Umar (RA), amongst the other silver domes around it.

This place is a busy hub of respectable pedestrians and excited visitors who are likely to follow the lights of shops and buy souvenirs and keepsakes for their memories. Streets are also filled with delicious aromatic savories being served at restaurants and food vendors.

To the north of the city, this residential neighborhood, Al Uyun, captures the attention of solitude seekers. Away from the attractions of the central city, it gives a glimpse into the local residential lives of the people of Medina. Some parks attract by providing coolness to one’s eyes, cafes that are well-reviewed, and markets that cater to locals’ needs.

The neighboring town of Medina, Al Rayah, showcases the livelihood of the city. People here like to buy from a good collection of abayas, Saudi-style dresses, and unique pieces of jewelry. Al Rayah is famous for its Al Noor and Al Qarrat malls, which have many luxurious shops and boutiques. This center is attractive to food lovers who like to have a bite of Middle Eastern flavors, such as a crunchy falafel to a juicy shawarma, or a remarkable Turkish grill.

The precincts of the mosque are open only for Muslims due to their sanctity. Non-Muslims may admire it from the outer perimeter, but are not permitted entry inside the courtyard or mosque. Masjid Al Nabawi stands as the representative of the grandeur of Saudi construction, with the domes designed with intricately carved or painted Quranic verses. The iconic Green Dome is a symbol of peace and spiritual serenity for millions of Muslims.

It is the place where the esteemed Rawdah of the Holy Prophet PBUH is located, which was once Hazrat Aysha’s chamber. The mihrabs (where an imam stands facing Qibla to lead prayers) are located in many places inside the mosque. The place where the Holy Prophet PBUH used to pray is situated next to his Rawdah, where the Imam prays today. It is also known as the Honorable Chamber of the Prophet, where he and his companions, Abu Bakr (R.A) and Umar (R.A), are also buried. It is decorated with about 2,000 chandeliers and was the first in Arabia to have electric light bulbs installed. The mosque has more than 1,000 speakers that broadcast Azan, which can be heard up to 10 kilometers in the city. Approximately 4.5 million visitors come here annually. The mesmerizing automatic opening and closing of 262 canopies provide visitors with shade from the scorching sun, and mist sprays around the courtyard help to reduce the temperature during hot summers.

Jannat al-Baqi is an ancient cemetery that was originally located on the outskirts of Medina during the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) time. Today, it lies within the heart of the city, just southeast of Masjid al-Nabawi, covering an area of about 180,000 square meters.. The graveyard can usually be visited in the morning and after Asr prayer, though timing may vary by day and crowd level.

Mount Uhud is named so as it stands alone among other ranges of mountains in the area. 4 km from the Prophet’s Mosque, it was honored and beloved by the Holy Prophet PBUH and is significant for holding the Battle of Uhud. 70 of the companions of the Holy Prophet PBUH embraced martyrdom in this battle, Hazrat Hamza bin Abdul Mutallib being the Sayyed of martyrs. There is a cemetery here, which is a resting place for all the martyrs.0

his state-of-the-art, beautifully adorned pedestrian walkway runs through the path of the Prophet’s Mosque, connecting it with Masjid E Quba and hence its name. Some parts of it are designated as parks, where people can stroll at night with their children. The line way has many souvenir shops, restaurants, and cafes where visitors can stop by and enjoy their time.

Owing to its rich tapestry of Islamic history and cultural heritage, Medina offers visitors a unique opportunity to connect with its deep-rooted traditions. The city is home to numerous historically significant sites that reflect the spiritual journey of Islam. These landmarks and stories make Medina not just a place to visit, but a destination to experience — one where faith, history, and atmosphere come together in a truly meaningful way.

Masjid al-Qiblatayn, meaning "The Mosque of Two Qiblas," is a culturally and historically significant site in Medina. Constructed in the 2nd year after Hijrah and associated with Sawad bin Ghanam, this mosque is historically significant as the site where the Qibla, or direction of Muslim prayer, was divinely shifted from Jerusalem (Masjid al-Aqsa) to Mecca (Masjid al-Haram).

This moment occurred while the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was leading the Zuhr prayer, following a revelation from Allah (Qur'an 2:144). The mosque features two minarets and once visibly marked the two Qiblas, although the structure has since been renovated. It can accommodate around 2,000 worshippers, and many pilgrims visiting Medina make it a point to stop here and reflect on this pivotal moment in Islamic history.

Also known as Masjid al-Sab’ah, or “The Seven Mosques,” this historical complex in Medina marks the site of the pivotal Battle of the Trench (Ghazwat al-Khandaq). Nestled near Mount Sela, the location is traditionally believed to be where the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his companions monitored the events of the battle. The complex originally comprised seven small mosques, each symbolically named after key figures involved in the defense of Medina:

• Masjid al-Fath, where the Prophet (PBUH) is said to have prayed for victory,
• Masjid Salman al-Farsi, commemorating the companion who proposed the trench strategy,
• Masjid Abu Bakr,
• Masjid Umar ibn al-Khattab,
• Masjid Ali ibn Abi Talib, and
• Masjid Fatimah al-Zahra.

In recent years, three of these — Masjid al-Fath, Salman al-Farsi, and Abu Bakr — have been merged into a single larger mosque as part of a restoration project. Though modest in scale, the site continues to serve as a powerful spiritual and historical landmark, offering visitors a deeper connection to the early struggles and unity of the Muslim community.

Dedicated by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the complex is responsible for the publication and authenticity of Quranic text in the form of Quran copies, its digitalized form, electronic publishing, and sound recordings. It has printed more than 350 million copies of the Quran, translated into 70 languages, and produced more than 250 editions.

Located to the south of Masjid Al Nabawi, this museum is designed innovatively to present the history and significance of the life of the Holy Prophet PBUH and other messengers of Allah. It also showcases Islamic monuments and gives knowledge about Islamic principles through immersive presentations.

Once a railway station in 1908, it was then transformed into a railway building museum by 1983. Almost 2,000 different artifacts are placed here that demonstrate the cultural and geographical features. It exhibits a unique collection of old Medina pictures and sheds light on the past. Located at the last station of the Hejaz Railway, near Anbariya Mosque, Medina.

Medina is home to many stunning outdoor attractions perfect for taking a break. Whether you're exploring historical sites, enjoying scenic views, or simply relaxing in one of the city's beautiful parks, there’s always something to do and see in this vibrant city

Step back in time with a guided experience that retraces the footsteps of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his companions as they set out for the historic Battle of Badr, a pivotal event in Islamic history that took place in 624 CE against the Quraysh of Mecca. This immersive tour begins at Sakiya Mosque and includes a camel ride, allowing visitors to connect physically and spiritually with the route taken by the early Muslims.

Throughout the journey, you'll visit significant landmarks, including:

• The site where the Muslim army first camped,
• The place of the first martyrdom in the battle,
• And other key locations where the confrontation unfolded.

The tour includes transportation by bus, along with breakfast and refreshments. A powerful mix of reflection, history, and experiential learning, this journey is a must-add to your list of things to do in Medina.

Witness the sites where courage, strategy, and sacrifice shaped Islamic history.

This 4-hour guided tour takes you through key locations that once echoed with the clash of armies and the spirit of faith. Explore the battlegrounds of historic conflicts such as the Battle of Uhud, the Battle of the Trench, and the encounters with the tribes of Banu An-Nadir and Banu Qaynuqa. These historically important locations provide a meaningful insight of the struggles encountered by the early Muslim community and the pivotal moments that shaped their strength and perseverance.

The tour includes transportation, as well as meals along the way, giving you a chance to enjoy some of the region’s most delicious local flavors while reflecting on its rich past.

Medina offers a great mix of modern malls and traditional markets. You’ll find international brands, local treasures, and everything in between, making it a fantastic place for shopping that blends style with culture.

Located near Masjid al-Nabawi, Aliat Mall stands out for its modern architectural design and vibrant shopping atmosphere. Its elegant structure and inviting layout make it a popular spot for both locals and visitors.

The mall features a wide range of international and regional brands, including Hyper Panda, SACO, Extra, Home Centre, and Toys R Us, along with fashion retailers like H&M, Mango, and Max, offering shoppers a selection from over 347 stores.

Aliat Mall is more than just a shopping center. It also offers a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to well-known fast-food outlets such as AlBaik, Romaway, Starbucks, McDonald's, KFC, and Burger King. For families, there are entertainment zones and gaming areas for kids, making it a well-rounded destination for shopping, food, and leisure.

Located on Second Ring Road (King Abdullah Road), Al Rashid Mega Mall is one of the largest and busiest malls in Medina, offering a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment for visitors of all ages.

The mall is home to a wide array of luxury and international brand stores, catering to fashion lovers and trendsetters. Its expansive food court features a variety of cuisines to satisfy every craving, while the indoor playland ensures that children are entertained throughout the visit.

For movie enthusiasts, the mall also houses a modern cinema, showcasing the latest films in a comfortable and stylish setting. Whether you're shopping, dining, or simply enjoying a family outing, Al Rashid Mega Mall delivers a complete and enjoyable experience.

A must-visit spot for those who want to live and experience the old times and Saudi Arabia’s cultural marketplace. You can shop for beautiful souvenirs or gifts, spices, and dates (from Souq Al Tumair, where you can find the best quality dates in many varieties) and try innovative things around you!

As diverse as its history and as magnificent as its cultural traditions, Medina experiences an upscale culinary scene. Make sure that you try the following restaurants:

• Sauce Boss:
  A fast-food restaurant located in the As Safiyah Park Museum in Medina, Sauce Boss features burgers with beef or chicken patties, added with special sauces such as secret creamy sauce, spicy-sweet heat, zesty mild magic, and more, which are appropriate for enhancing the flavors. You can enjoy fries or smashed burgers as well from their menu. Alongside desserts like Kunafa with chocolate muffins will provide you with a great meal!
• Swiss Butter:
  Just a 5-minute drive from Masjid Al Nabawi, this French restaurant, Swiss Butter, is popular for offering its signature steaks. Some of the best items they serve are Beef Fillet, Chicken Breast, and Salmon, topped with their secret Swiss Butter sauce. They also offer mocktails and mojitos among their wide range of drinks.
• Cacao and More:
  This cafe-style restaurant, Cacao and More, is an elegant and beautiful place located on the second floor of Garden Plaza. It has international cuisines on its menu, such as American, Italian, and Spanish, and vegetarian options are also included. Whether for a light tea break or a sweet treat experience, you should visit here to allow its enchantment to take over you.

Medina offers a variety of scenic parks and recreational attractions, making it easy to enjoy a relaxing day surrounded by nature or a lively outing filled with amusement rides and family-friendly activities.

Situated on Uthman bin Affan Road near Jabal Uhud, this beautifully landscaped park is a popular spot for families and children. With charming features like a bunny house, a bird-watching area, and fun rides, it creates a joyful environment for younger visitors. Add to that the ice cream stalls and open green spaces, and it’s easy to see why this park has become a favorite tourist and local getaway in Medina.

Located inside Al Qarrat Mall, Fun World is one of the top-rated indoor entertainment centers for kids in Medina, holding an impressive 4.6-star rating on Google Reviews. It features exciting rides, arcade games, and various interactive attractions that children absolutely love. It’s a perfect choice for families looking to spend quality time indoors, especially during hotter days.

One of the largest parks in Medina, offering walking paths, picnic areas, children’s playgrounds, and beautifully landscaped gardens. Ideal for family outings and evening strolls.

A colorful amusement center located in the city that combines rides, video games, and soft play areas—popular with children of all ages and often located inside malls.

Located near Masjid al-Nabawi, this area includes small arcades, fun snack spots, and toy stores, providing entertainment for children while adults explore nearby shopping options.

Apart from its shopping experience, Al Rashid Mall features a cinema and an indoor playland with exciting rides, offering a well-rounded entertainment day for families.

Escape the hustle and bustle of Madinah and embark on day trips to explore some of the region's most captivating and unique destinations. Whether you're drawn to mystery, history, or natural beauty, these day trips offer something for everyone. Choose your preferred mode of transport, and get ready for a memorable journey!

(30 km from Madinah)
Delve into the mysteries of Wadi E Jinn, a place famous for its strange and puzzling occurrences. Known as the "Valley of Jinn" in Islamic culture, this area is said to be inhabited by supernatural beings (jinn). Visitors are awestruck by the phenomenon of cars seemingly moving uphill without engines and water flowing in the opposite direction. Local legend suggests that jinn were present here, particularly near Masjid E Jinn, where they are believed to have listened to the recitation of the Holy Quran by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). While some attribute these strange occurrences to magnetic fields and natural forces, the valley remains a captivating destination for those curious about both natural wonders and a touch of mystery.

(3 hours drive from Madinah)
For a day of sun, sea, and relaxation, head to Yanbu, a picturesque port city along the Red Sea. Known for its pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs, it’s a paradise for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. Yanbu's tranquil atmosphere, paired with its top-tier resorts and mouthwatering seafood, makes it a perfect getaway from the city. Whether you're lounging on the beach, exploring the underwater world, or enjoying fresh local seafood, Yanbu promises a refreshing escape and unforgettable experience.

(About 4-5 hours drive from Madinah)
Step back in time with a visit to Al Ula, an archaeological treasure located to the north of Madinah. Famous for its remarkable rock formations and ancient tombs, Al Ula is home to Madain Saleh (Al-Hijr), a UNESCO World Heritage site. The site showcases stunning Nabatean architecture and intricately carved rock facades, offering a rare glimpse into the history of early civilizations. Whether you’re fascinated by archaeology or simply appreciate natural beauty, Al Ula will leave you in awe of its rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes.

(6 km from Madinah)
A short trip from Madinah, Mount Uhud holds great significance for Muslims as the location of the famous Battle of Uhud, where Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his companions defended Medina in the second major battle of Islam. The mountain offers visitors a chance to reflect on the historical events of the battle and visit the Martyrs’ Cemetery, where those who died in the battle are buried. The peaceful surroundings and panoramic views of the area make it an ideal spot for both spiritual reflection and outdoor exploration.

(Around 4-5 hours from Madinah)
For those seeking adventure, the Red Sea Diving Resort near Yanbu offers an exciting opportunity to explore one of the world’s most pristine underwater ecosystems. The clear, turquoise waters are home to diverse marine life and vibrant coral reefs, making it a top destination for snorkeling, diving, and water sports. Whether you're a seasoned diver or a beginner, the calm waters of the Red Sea provide an ideal environment to explore the ocean. With luxurious accommodations, this resort offers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.