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things to do in medina

Things to do in Medina

Medina is one of Islam’s two holiest cities, making it a key destination for millions of pilgrims traveling to Saudi Arabia for Hajj or Umrah. The city is centered around Al Masjid an Nabawi, also known as the Prophet’s Mosque, which was constructed by the Prophet himself and is also where he is buried.

Medina is where the Prophet Muhammad lived and taught after the migration from Makkah in 622 A.D., called Hijrah. This year is so important in the history of Islam that it marks the start of the Islamic calendar. Although the city’s name is usually written as Medina in English, its full name is Al Medina Al Munawwarah, meaning “the Enlightened City.”

Because of the city’s pivotal role in the Prophet Muhammad’s life, making a trip to Medina is a lifelong dream for many Muslims.

Medina, also known as Medina Munawwarah, is a city located in the Hejaz region of Saudi Arabia. It is one of the holiest cities in Islam, and it attracts millions of pilgrims every year who come to visit the Prophet’s Mosque and other important religious sites. Here are some things to do in Medina:

  1. Visit the Prophet’s Mosque: The Prophet’s Mosque, also known as Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, is one of the most important religious sites in Islam. It is the final resting place of the Prophet Muhammad, and it attracts millions of visitors every year. Visitors can pray, attend religious lectures, and admire the mosque’s beautiful architecture.
  2. Explore the Old City: Medina’s Old City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is home to many historic buildings and landmarks. Visitors can wander through the narrow streets and alleyways, visit traditional markets, and admire the city’s unique architecture.
  3. Visit the Quba Mosque: The Quba Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in the world, and it is located on the outskirts of Medina. It is believed that the Prophet Muhammad himself helped to build this mosque, and it is a popular destination for pilgrims.
  4. Take a tour of the Islamic University of Medina: The Islamic University of Medina is a prestigious institution of higher learning, and it offers courses in Islamic studies, Arabic language, and other subjects. Visitors can take a guided tour of the university’s campus and learn more about the important role that it plays in the Islamic world.
  5. Visit the Mount Uhud: The Mount Uhud is a mountain located on the outskirts of Medina, and it is an important historical site in Islam. It was the site of the Battle of Uhud, which took place in 625 CE, and it is a popular destination for pilgrims and history enthusiasts.
  6. Visit the Dates Market: Medina is famous for its delicious dates, and the Dates Market is a great place to sample different varieties of this sweet fruit. Visitors can also purchase dates to take home as a souvenir.
  7. Attend religious lectures: Medina is home to many prominent Islamic scholars and religious leaders, and visitors can attend lectures and sermons at various mosques and Islamic centers throughout the city. This is a great way to learn more about Islam and its teachings.

Must have apps to Medina visitors

There are several apps that can be helpful for visitors to Medina, depending on their specific needs. Here are a few of the most recommended ones:

  • VisitMadinah: This app is a great all-in-one resource for visitors to Medina. It provides information on the city’s history, culture, and attractions, as well as suggested itineraries and tours. The app is available in six languages (Arabic, English, French, Turkish, Indonesian, and Urdu).
  • Nusuk: This app is essential for pilgrims performing Umrah. It allows users to book Umrah permits and secure access to pray in the Rawdah Sharif. The app is also used by residents to arrange their Hajj pilgrimage.
  • Haramain High-Speed Railway (HHR) app: This app allows users to book tickets for the high-speed train that connects Makkah, Madinah, and Jeddah. The train is a convenient way to travel between the three cities, and the app makes it easy to book tickets and manage your trip.
  • Madinah Bus: This app provides information on Medina’s public bus system. It includes maps, schedules, and fares. With an extensive network of lines reaching every corner of the city, the app is a great way to get around Medina cheaply and easily.
  • Careem or Uber: These ride-hailing apps are a convenient way to get around Medina if you don’t want to take the bus. They are both available in English and Arabic.

In addition to these apps, there are a number of other apps that can be helpful for visitors to Medina, such as:

  • Muslim Pro: This app provides a variety of Islamic resources, including prayer times, a Quran with translation, and a Qiblah compass.
  • Google Translate: This app can be helpful for translating signs and menus from Arabic to English (or another language).
  • XE Currency: This app can help you convert between currencies.