About
Medina (also written Al-Madinah or Madinah) is a city in the Medina Province of Saudi Arabia, in western Asia. It is regarded as the second holiest city in Islam, after Mecca, and it is the final resting place of the Prophet Muhammad. For many visitors it is a destination of deep religious meaning, and it has long been an important centre of faith in the country.
What kind of visit it makes
Medina is above all a pilgrimage city. Most people who come here do so for religious reasons, often as part of a wider journey that includes Mecca. Visits tend to be unhurried and reflective, centred on the city's mosques and sacred sites and on the rhythm of daily prayer. Because of its religious character, visitors are encouraged to dress modestly and to respect the customs observed by the local community.
Around the city
- The city is the administrative heart of Medina Province, so it serves as a practical base for exploring the region.
- Its role as a major religious centre means that much of daily life, from its streets to its services, revolves around pilgrims and worshippers.
- Those planning a trip should check current arrangements for visiting the holy sites, as access rules can vary.
Medina suits travellers who come with a spiritual purpose or who wish to understand the place of the city in Islamic life. Those hoping for a conventional sightseeing trip may find it quieter and more focused than many other destinations, but for pilgrims it offers a profound and memorable experience.
