Spiritual Medina

A city with sacred heritage and vibrant culture

Medina: Faith and culture intertwined

Travel to Medina, Saudi Arabia, one of the oldest and most important places in Islamic history. Known as the cradle of Islamic culture and civilisation, the city welcomes millions of devoted pilgrims during Hajj and Umrah. Wander through some of the earliest masjids, explore the bustling markets, and savour local flavours from shawarma to halal steak. From spiritual landmarks to lively streets and memorable culinary experiences, you’ll find plenty to see and do in Medina. Discover the city and connect with its extraordinary story.

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Holy shrine of prophet Mohammad and masjid Al nabi, Medina, Saudi Arabia

Highlights of Medina

Located in Saudi Arabia’s Hejaz region, Medina is a city where history and daily life come together. Let us guide you through ancient mosques, bustling markets, and traditional Saudi dishes, and show you the best places to visit and things to do in Medina that bring its culture and heritage to life.

Spiritual & local experiences
Must-try local food
Getaways beyond Medina

Discover the best things to do in Medina. Visit its ancient mosques, heritage sites, and iconic landmarks, all offering unforgettable experiences for everyone.

Historic mosques

Medina is home to some of the earliest mosques in Islamic history. Some of those you should visit include Masjid Quba, Masjid al-Qiblatayn, Masjid Jumua, and Masjid Al Ghamamah. Each mosque in Medina offers a meaningful link to their spiritual faith.

Al-Masjid An-Nabawi, Medina, Saudi Arabia

Markets & Souqs

Experience Medina’s local life through markets like Quba City Souq or Old Bazaar for prayer rugs, tasbeeh beads, abayas, and meaningful souvenirs. Visit the famous Dates Market as well to sample Medina’s freshest and most beloved local varieties.

Al-Masjid an-Nabawi

Al-Masjid an-Nabawi is one of the most important mosques in the world and a key stop for millions of pilgrims. Those performing Hajj or Umrah often visit to pray and pay respects. Others can view it from outside the perimeter for a glimpse of the local experience.

Wide shot Middle Eastern woman in perfume store in souk

Taste the rich mix of flavours of Medina, from spiced Kabsa and crispy Buraik to warming Shorbat Hub and the city’s best halal steak.

Kabsa

Savour Saudi Arabia’s iconic rice dish, cooked with tender chicken, lamb, or seafood and infused with warm spices like cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom. Rich in flavour, the dish is finished with toasted nuts and raisins.

Halal steak

Taste perfectly cooked halal steaks across Medina, where all meat follows strict Saudi culinary standards. Try juicy cuts at popular spots or explore international and local culinary restaurants that serve high-quality, locally sourced meat.

Chicken Mandi Kabsa Arabic Rice with Saffron

Shorba

Another culinary gem of Medina, this hearty Hijazi soup is made with tender meat, tomatoes and grains, creating a bowl full of warmth and comfort. Before tasting it, you should add a splash of vinegar and onion sauce – a traditional pairing that brings the dish to life.

Kosher meat, grilled beef tenderloin with tomato & cucumber salad

Step beyond Medina and go on day trips to destinations outside the city, from coastal adventures to ancient archaeological wonders and cool mountain escapes.

Yanbu

Dive into one of Saudi’s top Red Sea spots on this thrilling day trip from Medina. Explore colourful coral reefs, meet vibrant marine life, and visit iconic dive sites for an unforgettable underwater adventure.

Scenic view of mountains against sky during sunset,Taif,Makkah Al Mukarramah Province,Saudi Arabia

Hegra

Explore one of Saudi Arabia’s most remarkable tourism sites on a full day trip from Medina. Walk among ancient Nabataean tombs, admire dramatic sandstone carvings, and soak up the deep history that makes Hegra truly unforgettable.

Taif

Escape to Taif on a refreshing day trip and enjoy its cool mountain air, rose fields, and scenic cable car rides. Wander through charming markets, take in Al Hada’s scenic views, and soak up the city’s vibrant festival atmosphere.

Saudi man admiring ancient rock-cut architecture at Hegra

Plan your trip to Medina

If you’re planning to visit Medina, here’s a sample well-organised itinerary to help you discover the best things to do in the city for an unforgettable experience. Map out your days accordingly to see the city’s top attractions and make every moment count, from historic mosques to bustling markets.

Day 1

Fly with us to Medina and arrive before noon. After checking into your hotel, spend the afternoon in the city. In the evening, you can rest and prepare for tomorrow’s tour.

Day 2

Start your day at Al-Masjid an-Nabawi. Then, visit Masjid Quba and Masjid al-Qiblatayn. In the afternoon, explore Sultanah Road, the Dates Market or Quba City Souq for local souvenirs

The tents of the Prophet's Mosque, Medina, Saudi Arabia

Day 3

Spend the morning exploring Masjid Jumua and Masjid Al Ghamamah. In the afternoon, wander through Old Bazaar while enjoying the bustling atmosphere.

Mosque of Al-Ghamamah, Medina, Saudi Arabia

Day 4

Take a day trip to Taif or Hegra and enjoy breathtaking viewpoints or dramatic sandstone carvings. These two spots offer a refreshing escape outside of Medina.

Young Caucasian woman in front Tomb Lihyan Son of Kuza or Qasr al-Farid at Hegra, Saudia Arabia

Day 5

Escape to the Red Sea with a day trip to Yanbu – a beautiful coastal city. Dive into stunning coral reefs and vibrant marine life.

Day 6

Spend your final morning in Medina soaking in the city’s atmosphere. After lunch, head to the airport for your flight home or continue exploring other parts of Saudi Arabia.

Saudi merchant and tourist looking at craft products

Important travel information

Before you travel to Medina, it’s useful to be familiar with the key information about the city. From the best time to visit Medina and visa rules to practical tips, knowing the essentials helps you plan your trip smoothly.

Medina has a desert climate, with hot days in summer and mild, cooler winters. Rain is rare, though you might see occasional showers in March and April. The cooler months make it easier to explore the city’s streets, visit historic mosques, and enjoy outdoor activities. The best time to visit Medina is during the mild winter months, when the weather is comfortable and ideal for exploring the streets.

Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport, located in the holy city of Medina, is the main gateway for travellers and pilgrims. Since opening in 1950, it has grown into a major hub, handling both domestic and international flights. The airport blends modern facilities with traditional Saudi design and offers shops, dining, and special services for pilgrims. With six flights a week, we make it easier for you to reach Medina and begin exploring its historic mosques, lively markets, and rich culture. Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport uses the IATA code MED.

Whether you need a visa to visit Saudi Arabia depends on your nationality, residency, and travel plans. Pilgrims coming for Hajj or Umrah can get permits through official Saudi platforms, while residents of GCC countries can apply online for an e-visa. Travellers with permanent residency in the U.S, UK, or EU may obtain a visa on arrival. If you don’t fall into these categories, you’ll need to apply for a visa before your flight. Check the latest requirements to make sure your trip to Medina is smooth.

Standard tourist visa duration: With a tourist visa, you can stay in Saudi Arabia for up to 90 days.
General requirements for a tourist visa in Saudi Arabia: The general requirements for a tourist visa for Saudi Arabia include a completed application form, valid passport, recent passport-sized photos with a white background, and proof that the travel document allows the holder to return to their home country

Currency: Saudi Arabia’s official currency is the Saudi Riyal (SAR). You can exchange cash when you arrive or use ATMs conveniently located throughout Medina to withdraw money as you need it.
Language: Arabic is the official language in Saudi Arabia, but you’ll find that English is commonly spoken. If you're travelling to Medina, this makes it easy to communicate with confidence.

Getting around Medina is simple and convenient, with plenty of transport options to suit every traveller. You can hop in a taxi or catch a bus to reach historic sites and local attractions without any hassle.

Taxis: Taxis are one of the easiest ways to get around Medina. They offer a convenient, comfortable, and reliable way to reach attractions across the city.
Trains: Travelling to and from Medina is simple with the Haramain High-Speed Railway. The line links the city to Mecca and Jeddah, covering the distance quickly and comfortably. For pilgrims and visitors, the train makes the journey smooth and convenient.
Buses: Buses make getting around Medina straightforward, as both public and tourist buses run regularly. Locals and visitors alike use them to explore the city.

Fly to Medina with Etihad

Fly to Medina with Etihad, the UAE’s national airline, for a journey designed around your comfort. Enjoy award-winning hospitality that sets the tone for your trip to Saudi Arabia’s holy city. With six flights a week, we make it easy for you to reach Medina and discover the best places to visit and things to do in the city.

Your trip to Medina with us is more than just a flight. It’s a travel experience designed around you and your family. Look forward to an amazing on-board experience, with meals prepared to suit your needs, and a smooth, comfortable journey from start to finish. With Etihad, every part of your trip is effortless, so you can spend your time looking forward to the adventure ahead.

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Frequently asked questions

Medina is one of our new destinations on our network, and we fly there six times a week. Departures are usually in the morning.

Medina is an important stop for pilgrims during Hajj or Umrah. Visitors come to pray at Al-Masjid an-Nabawi and other historic mosques, reflecting on their spiritual journey and connecting with Islamic history.

Visit traditional markets like the Dates Market and Old Bazaar, join guided tours during Ramadan, or take part in events such as the Medina Date Festival. These experiences give you a real feel for daily life and local traditions.