My Life in Saudi

  Introduction When visiting the holy city of Madinah , one of the most historically and spiritually significant sites you can explore is Jabal Uhud —Mount Uhud—and the surrounding battlefields . This area is where the Battle of Uhud took place in 625 CE (3 AH), a turning point in early Islamic history and a site of immense emotional and religious resonance for Muslims around the world. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the history of the Battle of Uhud , explore the stories of the martyrs , and provide a helpful guide for visiting this sacred site in modern-day Madinah. We'll also share tips, nearby attractions, and deeper spiritual insights. The Historical Significance of Mount Uhud Location and Description Mount Uhud is a 7-kilometer-long mountain located about 4 kilometers north of Al-Masjid an-Nabawi in Madinah. Unlike other mountains in the region, Uhud stands distinct and isolated, famously described by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH): “ Uhud is a mountain that...

  Introduction In the sacred city of Madinah lies a modest yet spiritually monumental mosque— Masjid Quba . It holds the distinction of being the first mosque ever built in Islam , founded by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) upon his arrival to Madinah during the Hijrah (migration) from Makkah. Quba Mosque is more than just a historic structure; it is a living symbol of faith, unity, and community , with immense spiritual significance for Muslims around the world. In this blog, we’ll explore the mosque’s remarkable history, its religious importance, architecture, and how you can visit this blessed place during your journey to Saudi Arabia. The Historical Background The Hijrah and Foundation of Quba Mosque In 622 CE, when Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) migrated from Makkah to Madinah—a journey known as the Hijrah —he stopped in a small village called Quba , located just a few kilometers from the heart of Madinah. During his brief stay of four days, the Prophet personally pa...

  Introduction Located inside Masjid an-Nabawi in the holy city of Madinah , Rawdah al-Jannah (The Garden of Paradise) is considered one of the most sacred spaces on Earth. For Muslims around the world, visiting Rawdah is not just a spiritual goal — it’s a dream of a lifetime. This blog will guide you through the meaning, significance, location, and process of visiting Rawdah al-Jannah during your pilgrimage to Madinah. Whether you're going for Hajj, Umrah, or simply visiting, this detailed guide will help you prepare and make the most of this incredible opportunity. 🌿 What Is Rawdah al-Jannah? Rawdah al-Jannah is a small rectangular area inside Masjid an-Nabawi, located between the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) tomb and his minbar (pulpit) . The Prophet (PBUH) said: "What is between my house and my pulpit is a garden from the gardens of Paradise." (Sahih al-Bukhari, 1196) This narration makes Rawdah a profoundly sacred space. Many scholars believe that prayer...

  Introduction Saudi Arabia, the heartland of Islam, is home not only to the Two Holy Mosques— Masjid al-Haram in Makkah and Masjid an-Nabawi in Madinah —but also to royal palaces built nearby , used by generations of Saudi kings and dignitaries. These palaces symbolize leadership , religious responsibility , and the deep connection between monarchy and Islam . But what does this mean for non-Muslims ? Can they visit these areas? What are the rules? And why are these palaces so important in the context of Saudi Arabia’s religious identity? This blog will provide an insightful look at the Royal Palaces near the Grand Mosques , explaining what non-Muslims should know — from history and cultural significance to access rules and modern context. 1. The Sacred Cities: Makkah and Madinah Before diving into the palaces themselves, it’s essential to understand one important point: Non-Muslims are not permitted to enter the cities of Makkah and the central zone of Madinah. This re...

  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...

  Introduction Every year, millions of Muslims from around the world embark on a spiritual journey to visit the two most sacred mosques in Islam — Masjid al-Haram in Makkah and Masjid an-Nabawi in Madinah . These majestic landmarks are more than architectural wonders; they are sanctuaries of faith, unity, and timeless history. Whether you're planning your first Umrah or a returning pilgrim, this guide will walk you through the heart and soul of these two sacred sites — highlighting their spiritual, historical, and practical significance. Masjid al-Haram – The Heart of Makkah 1. The Holiest Place in Islam Masjid al-Haram houses the Kaaba , the direction (Qibla) toward which every Muslim prays. Built by Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and his son Ismail (AS), the Kaaba is believed to be the first house of worship on Earth. “Indeed, the first House [of worship] established for mankind was that at Makkah – blessed and a guidance for the worlds.” – Qur’an 3:96 2. Tawaf – The Sacred Cir...

How Foreigners Can Own Property in Makkah & Madinah (2025 Guide) 🕌 How Can Foreigners Own Property in Makkah & Madinah? (2025 Guide) 🧭 Quick Answer Direct ownership by foreigners in Makkah and Madinah is generally not allowed . However, there are limited legal pathways—such as investing through public companies, long-term leases, or Saudi-registered firms—that can give you exposure to property in these holy cities. 1. ✋ Direct Ownership Still Off-Limits Foreign nationals—expats or non-GCC citizens— cannot own residential or commercial property directly in Makkah and Madinah. These cities are treated as religious sanctuaries and are restricted to Saudi citizens only. 2. ✔️ New Legal Investment Option: Buy Shares in Listed Companies In early 2025, Saudi Arabia updated its regulations allowing foreigners to hold up to 49% in publicly listed companies on Tadawul that own property in Makkah or Madinah. This offers a legal, indirect inve...

Visiting Madinah as a Non-Muslim: What You Can and Can’t Do (2025 Guide) Madinah (also spelled Medina) is one of the holiest cities in Islam, second only to Makkah. It holds deep religious, historical, and cultural significance for Muslims around the world. But if you’re a non-Muslim living in or visiting Saudi Arabia, you may be wondering: Can non-Muslims visit Madinah? What areas are accessible? And what should you know before going? In this detailed guide, we explain the current rules (as of 2025), areas you can visit, what to avoid, and how to be respectful when exploring Madinah as a non-Muslim. Can Non-Muslims Visit Madinah? Yes — non-Muslims are allowed to visit the city of Madinah itself. Contrary to a common misconception, the entire city is not off-limits. However, there are certain restricted areas that are only accessible to Muslims. The area immediately surrounding the Prophet’s Mosque (Al-Masjid an-Nabawi) — called the Haram area — is restricted, and entry is...