Madinah is one of the ancient cities of Saudi Arabia. It has huge cultural and religious significance. It is one of the best places that you should definitely visit once in a lifetime. Madinah is also known as the city of our Last Prophet (Peace Be upon Him) because He (P.B.U.H.) spent around 10 years of his life in Madinah.
The tomb of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H.) is also in Masjid Al-Nabwi which is the second biggest Mosque in the world, based in Madinah. Muslims and non-Muslims can visit these beautiful places, which are wonders of architecture and history. Madinah is also listed as one of the safest cities to travel.
These few of the beautiful places you can visit in Madinah:
- Masjid Al-Nabwi (The most important place in Madinah)
- Quba Mosque (The first Mosque built by the Holy Prophet {P.B.U.H} after Migration)
- Qiblatain Mosque (The Mosque known for the two Qiblas)
- Masjid Abu-Bakr (A tribute to pious Companion)
- Jannat Al Baqi (The garden of heaven on earth)
- Wadi e Jinn (The Valley of illusions and Legends)
- Dar Al-Madinah Museum (Reveals the city’s rich heritage)
- Asslam Museum (A gateway to Islamic Heritage)
- Uhud Mountain (A testament of faith and sacrifice)
Most Important Places in Madinah
Whether the places given below are highly important due to religious or historical reasons, it's worth visiting them as they are considered among the most beautiful places in the world.
Let’s begin the article with the talk of the most beautiful and second-biggest mosque of the world.
1. Masjid Al-Nabwi: Second Biggest Mosque in the World
Masjid Al-Nabwi - Prophet Mosque is the second biggest Mosque after the Masjid Al-Haram in Makkah. Its green colour dome makes it look stunning and the use of ancient stones in its construction makes it nothing less than a historic wonder. Masjid’s dome lights up at night and is the iconic symbol of the city. The tomb of the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) is also in this Masjid, and people from all over the world come to pay respects and offer prayers at this holy site.
2. Quba Mosque: The First Mosque built by the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) in Madinah
The Quba Mosque also holds significance in Islam as it is the first-ever Mosque built by the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) in Madinah after migrating from Makkah. He (P.B.U.H) himself has taken part in the construction of the Mosque by laying first stones. There is a famous belief among Muslims that offering one prayer at the Quba Mosque is equal to performing one Umrah. It is a place that you can’t miss visiting as it is included in all types of Umrah packages, such as 3 Star Umrah Packages.
3. Qiblatain Mosque: The Mosque of the 2 Qiblas
Masjid al-Qiblatain is one of the oldest mosques, where our Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) has led the prayer. It is believed that here in this Masjid the command of changing Qibla from Jerusalem to Makkah has been given by Allah to our Prophet (P.B.U.H). In 1987 during the reign of King Fahad, the Masjid was torn down completely and rebuilt. In the process of this construction, the old prayer facing Jerusalem has been removed and only Kaaba facing left.
“Indeed, We see you ˺O Prophet˺ turning your face towards heaven. Now We will make you turn towards a ˺direction of prayer˺ that will please you. So turn your face towards the Sacred Mosque ˺in Mecca˺—wherever you are, turn your faces towards it. Those who were given the Scripture certainly know this to be the truth from their Lord. And Allah is never unaware of what they do.” – Quran 2:144 (translated by Mustafa Khattab)
4. Masjid Abu-Bakr (A tribute to pious Companion)
This Masjid is named after Hazrat Abu-Bakr (RA), our first caliph and one of the closest companions of Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H). It serves as a tribute to the First Caliph of the Islamic era. The mosque's architecture, with its white walls, peaceful courtyard, and small prayer hall, is perfect for praying. The Mosque's simple appearance serves as a reminder of the simple and humble nature of Hazrat Abu-Bakr (RA), who has made a lot of sacrifices for Islam and the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H).
Umar ibn al-Khattab reported: “Abu Bakr, may Allah be pleased with him, was the most beloved of us to the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, as he was the best of us and our master.” Source: Ṣaḥīḥ Ibn Ḥibbān 7407
5. Jannat Al-Baqi: The Garden of Heaven on Earth
“The Baqi” is the oldest and first Muslim cemetery in Madinah. The other name for Jannat Al-Baqi is Baqi Al-Gharqad. It is located in the Hejaz region of present-day Saudi Arabia.
It is reported that this graveyard was founded by Muhammad (P.B.U.H) and here many of his companions and relatives are buried. People buried at this graveyard include Prophet Muhammad's (P.B.U.H) wives, his daughters, his grandson Hasan, his Companions, and his newly born son Ibrahim. Many narrations say that Muhammad (P.B.U.H) visited this cemetery regularly to pray for Allah's forgiveness for those buried there.
6. Wadi e Jinn: The Valley of Illusions and Legends
Wadi-e-Jinn or Valley of the Jinn is a unique natural wonder located at a corner of Madinah City around 35km from Masjid Al-Nabwi. The wonder is that everything flows towards Madinah city. i.e., when a car enters this valley, it seems to move upward without any external force. People say there are supernatural beings here, but its scientific explanation lies in the laws of physics and the strange geography of the valley. Despite knowing this fact, people come here to see the mysterious phenomena of this valley. Wadi-e-Jinn remains a popular tourist attraction.
7. Dar Al-Madinah Museum: Reveals the city’s rich history
Dar Al Madinah Museum is located in the heart of Madinah and serves as a bridge to the past. Its main goal is to preserve and share the history, culture, and architecture of the city. Visitors can explore a wonderful collection of artifacts and displays that highlight the life of the Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H) and the early Muslim community, representing Madinah's significant role in the early days of Islam.
The museum offers an engaging and interactive learning experience for people of all ages. Multimedia displays and informative exhibits make history come alive, allowing guests to gain a deeper understanding of Madinah’s importance and the contributions of its people.
8. Assalam Museum: A Gateway to Islamic History
This museum preserves and promotes all things related to Islamic history. The exhibition halls span over 4,650 square meters, and visitors can learn about the Prophet's (P.B.U.H) Migration to Madinah, details about the surrounding historical area, and the importance of peace in Islam. Assalam Museum has a total of 17,400 square meters area.
This Assalam Museum explores Madinah's scientific and social history, prophetic documents and writings, and architectural and cultural heritage. Its extensive photographic collection supports its exhibits.
9. Uhud Mountain: A testament of faith and sacrifice
Uhud Mountain, located just north of Madinah in Saudi Arabia, holds great historical and spiritual importance in Islam. It is best known for the Battle of Uhud, which took place in 625 CE. During this battle, the faith and strength of the Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H) and his companions were tested as they faced a strong army from Mecca. Today, the mountain is the resting place for many martyrs, including Hamza ibn Abdul-Muttalib, the Prophet’s (P.B.U.H) beloved uncle, reminding us of the sacrifices made by early Muslims.
Uhud Mountain also serves as a peaceful spot for self-examination, attracting pilgrims and visitors who want to think about the lessons of faith, courage, and unity from the Battle of Uhud. It’s a place where people can connect with the past and find inspiration in the struggles faced by those who came before them and sacrificed their lives for Islam and future generations.
Is Madinah Walkable?
Madinah is a walkable city, mainly in central areas where the most important Islamic lodestones and historical architecture are located. The city has a pedestrian-free walkway so you’ll not have a problem walking there and you can cover important sites on foot. Maybe some sites are located far from your accommodation so you can choose a taxi or public transport like buses and you’ll have fun traveling with locals.
While walking, be aware of the rules and regulations of the area. Wear comfortable shoes or sandals to avoid foot pain and walk with ease. Always carry a reusable water bottle with you, and stay hydrated because Madinah is a very hot city, especially during summer.
Conclusion
Madinah, the beautiful city in Saudi Arabia, is filled with spiritual and cultural attractions. At the heart of the city is the Prophet’s (P.B.U.H) Mosque (Masjid Al Nabawi), where the Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H) is buried, attracting Muslims from all over the world. Other important sites include the Quba Mosque, the first Mosque in Islam, and the Qiblatain Mosque, known for the moment when the Qibla direction changed. Uhud Mountain is the site of the famous Battle of Uhud, while Jannat al-Baqi is a historic cemetery (graveyard) where many of the Prophet’s companions are laid to rest. The Dar Al Madinah Museum and Assalam Museum also showcase the rich cultural and historical heritage of the city.
These attractions provide a unique look into Madinah’s deep religious history and cultural significance. If you’re interested in exploring these sacred sites, plan your visit today to experience the rich spirituality and history of Madinah personally. Visit Madinah and discover all that this remarkable city has to offer!
