My Life in Saudi

Madinah al-Munawwarah—“the Radiant City”—is best known as the resting place of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and home to Masjid an-Nabawi. Yet, beyond its towering green dome and tranquil Rawdah lies a network of forgotten palaces, bustling caravan markets, and winding back-alleys that once formed the economic and political heart of early Islamic Arabia. If you enjoy peeling back layers of history, this guide will transport you to Old Madinah’s palatial estates and legendary souqs , many of which pre-date and out-lasted the earliest dynasties of Islam. Along the way you’ll discover hidden gems, visiting tips, and cultural trivia that transform an ordinary pilgrimage or city tour into a time-traveling adventure. 1 — Why Palaces and Markets Matter in Madinah’s Story Political Power » Regional governors built fortified residences outside Masjid an-Nabawi to manage affairs, store tax granaries, and receive delegations. Commercial Life » Caravaners travel...

  Introduction Saudi Arabia is known as the cradle of Islam, home to the Two Holy Mosques, and the spiritual heart of the Muslim world. But beyond the grand mosques and religious landmarks, the Kingdom also houses a number of historic palaces that bear Islamic significance and deep cultural heritage. These palaces are not just relics of royal luxury — they are symbols of leadership , religious duty , and nation-building , often tied to the lives of the Saudi royal family, the spread of Islam, and the country's unification under Islamic principles. In this blog post, we’ll explore the most iconic Islamic historic palaces across the Kingdom — from Riyadh to Makkah and Madinah — uncovering their stories, architectural features, and spiritual relevance. 1. Qasr al-Hukm (Palace of Justice) – Riyadh This palace, located in Old Riyadh , was the seat of Islamic governance during the early days of modern Saudi Arabia. Founded during the time of Imam Turki bin Abdullah , it later b...