What to Consider Before Traveling to Medina Saudi Arabia
Medina is known as the second holiest city in Islam and is located in western Saudi Arabia. Each year thousands of visitors travel to Medina to visit and pay homage to the many religious and cultural sights found there. However, prior to assessing a trip to Medina, it is essential to master what needs to be considered in terms of legal requirements, climate, cost of living, and health.
Legal Requirements
Due to the religious significance of Medina, the Government of Saudi Arabia is extremely selective of the travelers they provide visas to. Therefore, before traveling to the city, one must acquire an Umrah or Hajj visa, both of which grant entrance into the city.
Additionally, tourists must stay in designated hotels, as Saudi laws forbid visitors from renting private or local accommodations.
Climate
Though Medina experiences sunny days for a large portion of the year, summer months are subject to extreme heat. Temperatures can reach up to 35-40 degrees Celsius.
On the other hand, winter months can get cold at night, as temperatures drop to around 10 degrees Celsius.
Rain is uncommon in Medina, however a light rain may occur occasionally.
Cost of Living
Medina is one of the most affordable cities in Saudi Arabia, as it offers visitors great value for money. Most travelers can expect to spend anywhere between 500-1000 Saudi Riyal per day.
The cost mainly consists of accommodation, food, transportation, and entertainment. Some activities such as visiting mosques are free.
Health
Saudi Arabia’s healthcare system is one of the best in the world, and Medina is no exception. Tourists should look to acquiring health insurance prior to arriving in Medina, as well as bring with them any necessary medication for their stay.
Before traveling to Medina, visitors are also required to obtain a Yellow Fever vaccination. Other vaccinations may be needed depending on the traveler’s nationality.
Historical Sights
Medina’s cultural and historical backdrop is one filled with thousands of years of significance, and the city’s ancient buildings are proof of this. The three main mosques among them are known as the Masjid al-Nabawi, Masjid al-Rawdhah, and Masjid al-Ghamama.
The Masjid al-Nabawi, also known as the Prophet’s Mosque, is headquartered in the city and is the most important religious shrine in Medina, due to its associations with the Prophet Muhammad.
On the other hand, the Masjid al-Rawdhah is considered to be the second most important religious site in the city, as visitors believe that a visit to this mosque brings one closer to Heaven.
The Masjid al-Ghamama, or the Friday Mosque, was built around the 7th century and is well known in the Islamic world. Visitors of this mosque are able to learn of a range of historical architectures, including Quranic inscriptions, lead basins, and ancient doors.
Marketplaces
Like any other Middle Eastern city, Medina is well known for its bustling marketplaces that are open throughout the day.
The main market located in the city center is considered to be the Souk al-Ghezaz, which translates to the Jewelers’ Bazaar. At this market, visitors are able to find a range of items and accessories, from Arab clothing to electronics.
The Souk al-Thulla is a smaller market located adjacent to the Jewelers’ Bazaar, and is considered to be home to much more traditional items and materials, such as jewelry, carpets, and religious artifacts.
Though each market is filled with an array of items, bargaining is important in order to secure the best price.
Culinary Delights
As is common in the Middle East, Medina offers plenty of formidable dishes for visitors to take part in. Popular Saudi dishes such as Kabsa, Machboos, Shawarma, and Mandi, can be found throughout the city. Ramadan and Eid also provide visitors with a bigger selection of dishes from around the region.
In addition, Medina is also known for its desserts. A particular favorite is Khabeesa, a saffron-infused dessert drenched in syrup and topped with nuts. Other favorites include Kanafeh, Kunafa, and several types of Baklawa.
Transportation
Taxi services are relatively widespread in Medina and can be found throughout the city. Some travelers may find hitchhiking to be the most cost effective solution when travelling short distances.
Commuter buses around the city can be accessed near the main bus station located in the city center. Prices for short distance travel are relatively cheap, with a single ride costing around 5-7 Saudi Riyal.
Longer bus journeys between cities are also possible, as well as using private bus companies.
Social Etiquette
Medina is a highly conservative city, and therefore visitors must be aware of the rigid social etiquette required when exploring the city.
Women and men must at all times be dressed appropriately in public. Women must abide by Saudi law, and must wear an abaya (which can be provided by most hotels) with their heads covered.
In terms of communication, the locals in Medina tend to be very welcoming and friendly. While Arabic is spoken in the city, English is slowly becoming more commonplace, making it easier for tourists to interact with locals.
Tips for Visiting Medina
It is absolutely vital to have a guide in Medina as one visits the holy city, and the government suggests asking the hotel one is staying at for assistance in the matter. Having a guide is also important for understanding the history and religious significance of the mosques and monuments.
Cameras and photography are permitted in Medina, though visitors must remain respectful of the city’s cultural and religious values. Photographing people should be done so with permission.
It is important to note that Medina is a cash based economy, and it is difficult to find ATMs that accept foreign cards outside of shopping malls. Therefore, it is essential to bring cash with one when visiting.
Shopping Opportunities
Medina is known to have a wide range of shopping opportunities, ranging from luxury malls to historical souks.
The Al-Haram Shopping Mall is a popular destination among visitors, as it offers a range of international shops and outlets such as Zara, Gap, and Armani.
The city center is also home to a number of stores offering traditional Saudi wear, such as Thobes, Abayas, and Kaftans.
On the other hand, Souk al-Ghezaz is home to well known jewelers offering a range of watches, jewelry, and stones.
For those looking to take souvenirs home, the city offers plenty of options. Handicrafts, clothing, and religious artifacts line the shelves of many stores in Medina, and prices are generally quite reasonable.
Travel Dispersion
Medina is not a huge city, so most attractions and sites are within walking distance from the city center. The majority of attractions are located near the Prophet’s Mosque.
For those travelling further afield, a car can be rented either from one’s hotel or at a car rental office. Public buses between cities are also available, though the journey time can often be long.
Taxis are by far the most common form of transportation in Medina, and prices can range from fairly cheap to more expensive, depending on the destination and time of day.
Accommodation Options
Due to the city’s religious status, accommodation options in Medina are limited to only hotels. Many well-known international hotel chains, such as Hilton, Sofitel, and Novotel, operate hotels in the city.
Most hotels offer packages to pilgrims and worshipers, which are ideal for those wishing to visit the many religious sites in Medina. Depending on the package, breakfasts and transfers to mosques are also included.
Hotel prices also tend to be quite reasonable, and many hotels also offer discounts for extended stays.
