Immerse into the unique atmosphere of Madinah
- Marion Mueller
- Sep 25
- 6 min read
Madinah a city that was for long time only accessible for pilgrims
After we got to know to the metropolises of Riyadh and Jeddah in my two previous Blogs, we are now coming to a very special and purely overwhelming city – the holy city of Madinah.
Together with Mekka these two cities are the epicentre of the Islamic world and places where every Muslim should have been at least once in a lifetime. Mekka is still a no-go for common tourists and can be only visited from Muslims during their pilgrimage.
However, Madinah did the big step and has now opened its door to all visitors – as long as they are respectful and aware of the very special place that they are in.
Madinah
A visit to Madinah is also a journey through the heart of the Islamic culture and heritage. Madinah, also known as Medina or Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah, stands as one of the most historically significant and culturally rich cities in the Islamic world. Situated in the arid landscapes of the western region of Saudi Arabia, Madinah’s name echoes through the centuries as a beacon of spiritual refuge, intercultural convergence and architectural splendour. This sacred city draws millions of visitors each year, inviting them to immerse themselves in its profound heritage, vibrant traditions and awe-inspiring sights.
I don´t want to dig too much into Islamic history here, but before a visit to Madinah it is good to understand the importance of this city.
Madinah’s significance springs foremost from its central role in the history of Islam. It is the city to which the Prophet Muhammad migrated in 622 CE—an event known as the Hijrah—which marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar. This migration was not merely a physical journey, but a profound transition that enabled the emergence of the first Islamic community. Madinah thus became the cradle of Islamic civilization, where the foundational tenets of faith, governance and social justice were established.
At the heart of Madinah lies Al-Masjid an-Nabawi—the Prophet’s Mosque—second only to the Sacred Mosque in Makkah in terms of religious importance for Muslims. The city is home to the resting place of the Prophet Muhammad, making it a destination for spiritual seekers and pilgrims from across the world. For Muslims performing Hajj or Umrah, visiting Madinah is a deeply cherished experience though it is not a formal requirement of the pilgrimage.
Beyond its religious significance, Madinah has historically functioned as a centre of learning, diplomacy, and cultural exchange. The city was a hub for early Islamic scholarship, where the traditions of the Prophet were recorded, preserved and disseminated. Over the centuries, Madinah has played a pivotal role in shaping the cultural and spiritual identity of the Muslim world, nurturing scholars, poets and artists whose influence resonates far beyond the Arabian Peninsula.
To wander Madinah’s bustling streets is to experience a tapestry woven from centuries of tradition and coexistence. The city’s culture is deeply rooted in Bedouin values, Islamic teachings and the customs of diverse communities who have called Madinah home.
Know before you go
All the above is reflected in the unique atmosphere that you will experience while visiting the city. The peaceful atmosphere, the pilgrim visitors from all over the world and the impressive Prophet´s Mosque is a real overwhelming experience.
Needless to say that this ambiance deserves the necessary respect and a humble appearance. Therefore, Madinah is the only city where female foreign travellers have to cover in an Abbayah (long black dress) and a head scarf. For men also a decent dress code is required.
How to reach
Madinah is connected with the world through its international Prince Mohammad bin Abd-Al-Aziz Airport.
If you are already in the country many domestic flights are also available or the train coming from Mekka and Jeddah.
We hopped on the train in Jeddah and what to say I was more than impressed. Already the train station resembles more a 5* hotel than a train station. The floor is polished to the maximum shine and everything is modern and very organized. Coming from Germany where every train journey is a gamble whether you reach on time or not – our train to Madinah was punctual on the minute.
The train between Jeddah and Madinah, called Haramain, is a high-speed train with an average speed of 300 km/h and a connection time of approx.. 2.5 hours between the two cities. With your train ticket comes also a seat reservation – luggage is allowed to bring on the train and there are special luggage compartments (however not too many for large suitcases).
The train is top-notch with the latest equipment and you can follow your journey on the screen within every train compartment.
Where to stay
Due to the large influx of pilgrims, the city has also a large number of hotels from all categories. I highly recommend taking a hotel directly at the Haram square around the Prophet´s Mosque and ask specifically for a room that is facing the Haram area.
As a common tourist you are not allowed to enter the mosque itself, but with a room that has a view onto the mosque you can already get a good view of the whole area and a feel of this unique atmosphere.
I found it so amazing to see the streams of people moving into the mosque at the time of prayer. Also the call for prayer might be very loud for some people, but for me it just adds to this special atmosphere.
We were staying at the Al Manakha Rotana Hotel where we could immerse in that blessed atmosphere. Our modern room was facing the Prophet Mosque and square. Breakfast was really good with a large variety of everything and for lunch and dinner you have a couple of different options at or around the hotel. From the lobby it is just a few steps to the mosque area.
What to see
Prophet Mosque – Al-Masjid an-Nabawi
Of course, the main sight of Madinah is the Prophet Mosque – however as a non-Muslim you are not allowed to enter and you can only observe the atmosphere from outside of the surrounding fence – but it is still an impressive experience. I recommend coming there twice – during the day, but also at night as the lighting will create a completely different atmosphere.
The serenity of the Prophet’s Mosque is purely unique. With its gleaming white minarets, vast marble courtyards, and iconic green dome, this sacred site can accommodate over a million worshippers at a time. The mosque’s tranquillity is matched only by its architectural splendour, and the interior is adorned with intricate calligraphy, mosaics and gilded columns. Pilgrims can also visit the Rawdah, a revered section of the mosque believed to be a garden of Paradise.
Prophet Museum
As you cannot enter the mosque as a regular visitor, I would highly recommend visiting the adjacent Prophet Museum, officially called International Fairs and Museums of the Prophet´s Biography and Islamic Civilization – www.ethaf.com/en
The museum shows in a very vivid way the history of Prophet Mohamed and gives a good introduction into the Islamic world.
Quba Mosque
Located a few kilometres south of the city centre, the Quba Mosque is the first mosque ever built in Islamic history. Its elegant white domes and peaceful gardens offer a heaven for reflection. Tradition holds that prayers performed in the Quba Mosque are especially meritorious and it remains a cherished stop for spiritual travellers. Again for other travellers it can be only seen from outside.
Uhud Mountain
The dramatic slopes of Mount Uhud bear silent witness to one of the most pivotal battles in early Islamic history. Visitors can explore the battlefield, pay respect at the tombs of the martyrs and climb the mountain for panoramic views of Madinah’s outskirts. Local guides share stories of heroism and sacrifice, bringing the past vividly to life.
Souk Madinah
A visit to Madinah is incomplete without exploring its bustling markets. The city is famous for its dates and the central date market showcases an astonishing variety from the city’s sprawling oasis. Local souks entice visitors with an array of spices, perfumes, textiles, prayer rugs and handcrafted goods, offering a feast for the senses and a chance to mingle with local merchants.
Madinah is also known for its traditional crafts such as palm-weaving, pottery and calligraphy. Markets brim with souvenirs hand-made by local artisans from prayer beads and woven baskets to intricate silver jewellery. Calligraphic art inspired by Quranic verses, adorns the interiors of homes and mosques alike.
Must-by: definitely at least a package of the very special holy dates that are only available in Madinah – go for Ajwa or Barni dates.
Above are the main touristic sites, however there is a number of other interesting mosques and smaller museums. For further information about other sites, guided tours, the hop-on/hop-off bus and more attractions please check:
Some last Madinah impressions:
After our small excursion into the religious world of Saudi Arabia, we are now coming to one of the most spectacular landmarks of Saudi Arabia and a real natural spectacle – the fantastic landscape and hidden tombs of Al Ulah. Check out my next Blog post for more.
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