What to do in Madina

Madinah International Book Fair 2025 is underway and welcoming readers, families, and culture lovers from across the Kingdom. Now in its fourth edition, the fair runs until August 4 at the King Salman International Convention and Exhibition Centre. Entry is free, and the fair is open daily from 2 PM to midnight. Visitors will find an extensive range of titles across literature, science, Islamic studies, and more. There’s also a diverse cultural programme including: Seminars Dialogue sessions Poetry evenings Creative workshops Prominent authors and cultural figures will join these events, offering a deeper look into various topics and ideas. At...

Saudi Arabia’s dining scene is taking things up a notch, and this time, Madina is in the spotlight. The city is about to welcome the arrival of CZN Burak Gurme, the global Turkish brand created by chef and internet sensation Burak Özdemir. Known for his energetic personality and massive online following, Chef Burak is bringing his signature take on Turkish comfort food to one of the Kingdom’s most historic cities. Located on Artaah Ibn Al Munther, the new restaurant will soon open its doors to offer a gourmet twist on traditional Turkish dishes. View this post on Instagram A post...

Saudi Arabia is launching a new project that offers a rare opportunity for those looking to connect deeply with one of the most significant events in Islamic history. It offers a chance to trace the Hijrah route, the same path of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) from Makkah to Madinah, spanning 470 km. If you decide to go on this journey, here’s what you can expect: 305 km on foot Passing through 41 historic landmarks Visiting 59 historical and enrichment stations Exploring 5 key event locations from the Hijrah The project aims to bring history to life with augmented reality, workshops, and...

Hilton is set to introduce its first Tapestry Collection property in Saudi Arabia with the launch of Diyar Ajwa, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, opening in November 2025. The new hotel will be located in Madinah’s central Haram area, offering a boutique-style experience that aligns with the Tapestry brand’s focus on cultural connection and local identity. The project is being developed in partnership with Al Musbah Group and reflects Hilton’s plans to expand its presence across the Kingdom. The company continues to move toward its target of operating 100 hotels in Saudi Arabia. Diyar Ajwa will include 221 guest rooms and...

Hajj is a journey most people prepare for long before the time comes. If you’re ready to take that step now, registration is open for citizens and residents of Saudi Arabia. You can submit your application online through the Nusuk app or on the official website https://hajj.nusuk.sa. Before applying, make sure you meet the following: You must be at least 15 years old (Gregorian calendar) You must meet the approved health requirements Residents must have a valid residency permit (iqama). Priority will be given to those whose iqama was issued more than one Gregorian year ago You can read more...

If you’re planning Umrah, you know how important it is to be prepared. The rituals are deeply meaningful, but the logistics can feel overwhelming, especially if Arabic isn’t your first language. To make things easier for foreign pilgrims, Saudi Arabia has issued the official Umrah guide in 16 international languages. The guide follows takes you through entire journey: from the moment you prepare at home to the completion of your pilgrimage. It starts with pre-travel requirements like visas and permits, then walks you through the rituals of Umrah, including Ihram, Tawaf, and Sa’i. No matter where you’re coming from or...

If you’re looking for something memorable to do with family or friends, Yanbu is in full bloom right now, which means the return of Yanbu Flower Festival. Until April 23, you get the chance to admire its large floral displays and hands-on activities. There's a small train that moves visitors across the site and its multiple areas: Bird Garden, Flower Hills, Flower Village, and Flower Volcano. One section, called “Around the World,” draws inspiration from international flower gardens and includes cultural elements such as live performances, theatre, and shows scheduled throughout the day. Plan to stay until the evening to...

In 2026, Yanbu’s coastline will get a new destination that’s all about relaxation, culture, and making the most of the stunning Red Sea views. Kaynouna Beach Club is designed to be the ultimate coastal escape, with wellness and leisure at the heart of the experience. It’s a place where you can unwind, soak up the sun, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region. At Kaynouna, you can look forward to a range of unique experiences. The development will feature a wellness resort for those looking to rejuvenate, a Cloud7 Lifestyle hotel for modern comfort, and of course,...

Crowds are part of Mecca, especially during pilgrimage seasons. Getting in and around the city is not always simple. For a while, there've been plans to build an airport and metro system in the city. And now, they have become one step closer to reality. Authorities say both projects are officially moving into the next phase. Saleh Al-Rasheed, CEO of the Royal Commission for Mecca City and the Holy Sites, confirmed that teams have completed the airport studies. Authorities are now working with private sector partners to define how they will build and operate the hub. Work on the metro...

As the final days of Ramadan approach, many pilgrims are preparing for Umrah at the Great Mosque in Mecca. However, with a large number of worshippers expected, the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has urged pilgrims to be mindful of peak hours to ensure a more comfortable experience. If you're planning your trip during this time, here are the best (and the busiest) hours to visit. Recent data shows that the busiest times at the Great Mosque are: 4 PM to 10 PM 5 AM to 8 AM For those looking for a quieter experience, moderate crowds are usually...