Medina, Holy city in Medina Province, Saudi Arabia
Medina is a holy city in Medina Province, Saudi Arabia, located on desert plains surrounded by low rocky mountains to the west and east. The urban center spreads outward from the grand central mosque, with modern hotels and residential neighborhoods forming rings around the older quarters where narrow streets wind between traditional buildings.
The Prophet Muhammad arrived here in 622 after leaving Mecca, transforming a small settlement into the first capital of the Islamic community. Over the following centuries, control passed through different ruling dynasties while the religious importance remained constant.
Pilgrims arrive year-round to visit the burial site of the Prophet Muhammad, creating a constant flow of prayer and devotion inside the central mosque. The rhythm of daily life revolves around the five calls to prayer, when streets empty and worshippers gather under the green dome.
The international airport lies about 16 kilometers (10 miles) from the city center, where buses and taxis provide connections throughout the day. Hotels and services cluster around the mosque district, making it easier to walk between accommodations and prayer areas.
Only Muslims may enter the central district where the Prophet's Mosque stands, with checkpoints marking the boundary of this restricted zone. Non-Muslims can stay in the outer parts of the city but cannot approach the religious sites.
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