Country | Saudi Arabia |
Population | 1411599 |
Area | 589 km2 (227 sq mi) |
Time Zone | UTC+03:00 (SAST) |
Coordinates | 24.46861, 39.61417 |
Highest elevation | 620 m (2,030 ft) |
City Gallery
City Description
Medina, officially Al-Madinah al-Munawwarah, is one of the most sacred cities in Islam, located in the Hejaz region of western Saudi Arabia. With a population of 1,411,599 as of 2022, it stands as the fourth-most populous city in the country. Approximately 58.5% of its residents are Saudi citizens, while 41.5% are foreigners. The city spans an area of 589 km², with 293 km² comprising the urban area, and the rest covered by the Hejaz Mountains, valleys, agricultural land, and dormant volcanoes.
Historically, Medina was known as Yathrib before the advent of Islam. It was renamed Madīnat an-Nabī after the Prophet Muhammad’s death and later al-Madinah al-Munawwarah. Medina’s significance in Islamic culture is immense, being the second-holiest city after Mecca. It is the site of Al-Masjid al-Nabawi (The Prophet’s Mosque), which houses the tomb of Muhammad, making it a pivotal destination for Muslims on pilgrimage, known as Ziyarat.
Medina’s history dates back over 1,500 years before Muhammad’s migration from Mecca, known as the Hijrah, which marks the start of the Islamic calendar. Following the Hijrah in 622 CE, Medina became the capital of a rapidly expanding Muslim caliphate. Under Muhammad’s leadership, the city flourished as the cradle of Islam, where his followers, including the Ansar (Medinan citizens) and the Muhajirun (immigrants from Mecca), gained significant influence.
The city is home to three prominent mosques: Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, Quba Mosque (the oldest mosque in Islam), and Masjid al-Qiblatayn. A significant portion of the Quran was revealed in Medina, contrasting with the earlier Meccan surahs. The city’s religious and historical importance attracts millions of pilgrims annually, especially during Hajj and Umrah.
Medina’s geography features a moderate climate and diverse landscapes, including mountains, valleys, and agricultural areas. It is situated at the core of the Medina Province, enhancing its strategic and cultural significance. The city has been a regional trade center for over a millennium, contributing to its economic development.
Culturally, Medina is rich with heritage sites and landmarks. Among these are Mount Uhud, Al-Baqi’ cemetery, and the Seven Mosques, which hold significant religious value. Despite the destruction of some historical structures and archaeological sites by the Saudi government, Medina continues to be a focal point of Islamic heritage and tourism.
Medina’s economy is primarily centered on religious tourism, supported by the influx of millions of pilgrims each year. The city’s infrastructure, including roads, hotels, and services, is geared towards accommodating these visitors. Additionally, the city has seen growth in various sectors, including agriculture and trade, leveraging its historical role as a trade hub.
Medina’s human resources are diverse, reflecting its population mix of Saudi citizens and expatriates. The city offers numerous educational institutions and healthcare facilities, supporting its residents and the large number of visitors. The local workforce is engaged in various sectors, from hospitality and services to trade and agriculture.
In summary, Medina is a city where history, religion, and culture converge. Its pivotal role in Islamic history, coupled with its modern-day significance as a center for pilgrimage and tourism, makes it a unique and vibrant city. Medina’s rich heritage, coupled with its dynamic growth, continues to attract millions, making it a cornerstone of Islamic culture and history.
Leave a Reply