The sacred sites in Makkah and Madinah that Hajj pilgrims have a chance to experience

Visitors climb Thawr Mountain overlooking Makkah. (Getty Images)
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Updated 18 June 2024
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The sacred sites in Makkah and Madinah that Hajj pilgrims have a chance to experience

  • The act of welcoming Muslim pilgrims throughout the ages has resulted in a distinct cultural identity and legacy
  • Visitors are urged to gain a deeper insight into the spiritual and historical significance of the two holy cities

JEDDAH: During the pilgrimages of Hajj and Umrah, devout Muslims seek out sites that deepen their understanding of Islam and its rich heritage.

The historical sites and archaeological museums in Makkah Al-Mukarramah and Madinah Al-Munawara offer a profound educational experience to millions of visitors from around the world who flock to the two holy cities each year.

After completing their religious rites, such as Umrah and Tawaf, and paying their respects at the Haram, pilgrims yearn to immerse themselves in the history of Makkah and Madinah.

With histories going back thousands of years, these cities are embodiments of the origins of Islamic culture, having welcomed pilgrims down the ages and developed a distinct cultural identity in the process of doing so.




The Hira Cultural District in Makkah is among the must-visit landmarks for pilgrims. (SPA)

To grasp the historical importance of these cities and gain a deeper insight into their religious significance, visitors are urged to venture beyond the well-known landmarks like Jannat Ul Mua’lla, the Cave of Hira in Jabal Al-Nour, Mount Arafat and Masjid-e-Ayesha.

Nestled beside the renowned Jabal Al-Nour, the Hira Cultural District offers a distinctive fusion of cultural, historical, and engaging encounters. Encompassing 67,000 square meters, this district offers pilgrims an immersive voyage through time, enabling them to forge a connection with the vibrant history of Makkah.

Near the Haram lies the historic site of Hudaibiyah, where Prophet Muhammad signed the crucial treaty of Hudaibiyah. A mosque now stands at the site, alongside a weathered structure of unknown origin.




A mosque now stands in the historic site of Hudaibiyah, where Prophet Muhammad signed the crucial treaty of Hudaibiyah. (Supplied)

In 809, during a time of extreme water scarcity in Makkah, Queen Zubaida, the wife of Abbasid Caliph Harun Rashid, undertook a pilgrimage to the holy city. Witnessing the challenging conditions faced by pilgrims, she took immediate action by ordering the construction of the Zubaida Canal.

This canal, built more than a thousand years ago, has continued to supply water to pilgrims visiting Makkah ever since. 

Lastly, Mount Abu Qubais, where a miraculous event involving the moon occurred, serves as a reminder of divine intervention in Makkah’s scenery.

One of the must-visit attractions in Makkah is the Assalaamu Aleyka Ayyuhan Nabiyyu Museum, which educates visitors about the life of Prophet Muhammad through innovative displays and artifacts.

By providing glimpses into the type of dwelling he may have inhabited and showcasing clothing from his era, the museum offers a unique insight into his life, allowing guests to delve into the lives of his ancestors, wives, children, and descendants.




The Assalaamu Aleyka Ayyuhan Nabiyyu Museum in Makkah. (Supplied)

The collaborative effort of more than 150 scholars ensures the museum’s authenticity in religious, and archaeological details, creating a comprehensive and accurate portrayal of Prophet Muhammad’s life and legacy.

“I have been guiding pilgrims on deeply spiritual journeys for nearly 15 years, introducing them to the holy city’s lesser-known treasures,” Ahmed Khan, a private tour guide, told Arab News.

“Pilgrims are always thrilled and grateful when we visit sites where the legacy of Prophet Muhammad and the rich heritage of Islam resonate with each step.”

Another private tour guide, Aman Javaid, emphasized the importance of providing pilgrims with accurate information about the sites they visit.

“It’s crucial for me to ensure that I share all the correct details about these places,” he told Arab News. “Many pilgrims often mention the Cave of Hira, but I make it a point to take them to the Cave of Thawr as well.




The Thawr Cave, located in the Jabal Thawr mopuntain, is the place where Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his companion Abu Bakr hid from the Quraysh during the migration to Madinah. (Supplied)

“This revered site is where the Prophet Muhammad and his companion Abu Bakr sought refuge during their migration to Madinah. Sharing the story of how they escaped their enemies and found solace there always piques the pilgrims’ interest. I make sure I have comprehensive knowledge about these sacred sites.”

The Cave of Thawr underscores the importance of seeking refuge and divine guidance during adversity, marking a pivotal moment in Islamic history. Pilgrims honor the legacy of the prophet and Abu Bakr by offering prayers and paying their respects in this sacred place.

Located at the birthplace of Prophet Muhammad, the Makkah Al-Mukarramah Library serves as a hub for knowledge and research. With a collection of more than 350,000 rare books and manuscripts, this esteemed institution stands as a testament to Makkah’s cultural and intellectual heritage.

Within the King Abdulaziz Complex lies the renowned Kiswa Factory, where artisans annually produce the exquisite black silk coverings for the Holy Kaaba. Adorned with intricate silver and gold embroidery and Quranic inscriptions, these coverings are a symbol of reverence and tradition.




Inside the King Abdul Aziz Complex, workers fabricate the kiswa, the cover of the Holy Kaaba. (AN photo/File)

The factory, now known as the King Abdulaziz Complex for Kiswa, showcases the artistry of silk knitting and embroidery, preserving a centuries-old craft.

Madinah, as the second holiest city in Islam, holds immense importance for Muslims undertaking Umrah and Hajj pilgrimages. Pilgrims visit to pay their respects at renowned mosques and historical sites steeped in cultural and religious significance.

The city is home to historic mosques dating back to the time of Prophet Muhammad, offering a spiritually enriching experience.

Masjid Al-Qiblatain stands out with its traditional design and renowned twin mihrabs, where it is believed Prophet Muhammad received a divine command to change the qibla direction. Rebuilt during King Fahd’s reign, this mosque remains a beautiful and significant place for prayers in Madinah.




Masjid Al-Qiblatain, meaning “two directions,” was built two years after Prophet Mohammed arrived in Madinah, a city known for its rich Islamic history, and a customary stop for millions of Umrah and Hajj pilgrims every year. (SPA)

Another notable site is Masjid Abu Bakr, honoring the first caliph and close companion of the prophet, reflecting the deep bond between Abu Bakr and Prophet Muhammad through its modest yet serene setting and inviting visitors to draw inspiration from Abu Bakr’s unwavering faith.

Among the historic mosques in Madinah, Masjid Al-Ahzab holds a significant place in Islamic culture, marking the site of a pivotal battle where the prophet’s du’a led to victory.

Meanwhile, Masjid Al-Ghamamah, though small in size, remains an important site for seeking blessings during ziyarat in Madinah. Visitors are encouraged to respect the mosque’s guidelines, including observing prayer times and maintaining modesty, to fully appreciate the spiritual significance of these revered locations.

Another fascinating site relates to the Battle of the Trench, also known as the Khandak Battle — a significant military confrontation in 624 between the Muslims of Madinah and the Makkan army, which was attempting to suppress the spread of Islam.




The Khandak Mosque stands in the place where the Khandak Battle took place in 624 between the Muslims of Madinah and the Makkan army, which was attempting to suppress the spread of Islam. (Supplied)

Fought near the Badr wells, it proved to be a decisive victory for the Muslims, highlighting their strength and Prophet Muhammad’s leadership.

Likewise, the Garden of Hazrat Salman Farsi in Madinah is a historic site where Prophet Muhammad planted 300 date palms to free Salman Farsi from slavery. Located near Masjid Quba, the garden remains lush with date palm trees and features a date shop for visitors to enjoy tea amid the greenery.

Meanwhile, the city’s oldest museum, Al-Madinah Museum, highlights Islamic history and the life of Prophet Muhammad through rare artifacts and models of city landmarks.




A general view of the Hira Cultural District in Makkah. (SPA)

Similarly, As Safiyyah Museum and Park, located near the Prophet’s Mosque, offers a unique cultural experience with a focus on educational enrichment and enjoyment.

The centerpiece is the Story of Creation Museum, which utilizes advanced technology to visually depict the creation narrative.




Madinah's Safiyyah Museum and Park, located near the Prophet’s Mosque. (Supplied)

Finally, the Hejaz Railway Museum is housed in the historic railway station and provides insights into the significance of the Hejaz Railway, which was built to facilitate pilgrimages to the holy cities. The museum displays vintage locomotives, historical photographs, and documents detailing the railway’s history.

These sites not only deepen pilgrims’ understanding of Islamic history but also foster a greater appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Through these visits, pilgrims connect with the legacy of their faith, making their pilgrimage a truly holistic journey.
 

 


Saudi artist rolls forward with bamboo paper

Jumanah Telity transforms bamboo paper into sturdy objects, from baskets to small-scale furniture and figurines. (Supplied)
Updated 13 July 2025
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Saudi artist rolls forward with bamboo paper

  • Jumanah Telity’s eco-conscious art form is as durable as it is creative

JEDDAH: Saudi artist Jumanah Telity has found an unusual medium for her creativity: bamboo paper.

Through a labor-intensive process she transforms it into sturdy objects, from baskets and storage boxes to small-scale furniture and figurines.

“This art, like any other art, requires specific techniques, sense, and artistic thought to produce creativity,” she told Arab News. “It differs from other arts in that it is a very strong and practical product that is used daily and also decoratively.”

Jumanah Telity transforms bamboo paper into sturdy objects, from baskets to small-scale furniture and figurines. (Supplied)

Originally an educator, Telity spent 19 years in schools, eventually serving as a principal.

In 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, she decided to explore her long-time fascination with natural materials such as wood, bamboo, and rattan.

That is when she discovered bamboo paper weaving online and something clicked.

HIGHLIGHTS

• In 2020, Saudi artist Jumanah Telity decided to explore her long-time fascination with natural materials such as wood, bamboo, and rattan.

• She recently displayed her work at Balad Al-Fann in Jeddah’s historic district.

“It strangely attracted me. I felt like I found my passion here because it really appealed to me,” she said.

Telity says the method involves tightly rolling paper into sticks using a special needle. It is then woven into shape.

Jumanah Telity transforms bamboo paper into sturdy objects, from baskets to small-scale furniture and figurines. (Supplied)

“It begins with choosing the type of paper, its size, and the way it is cut,” she said. “After trying this art, you’ll be amazed at the strength of these products and how they can be washed with soap and water without being affected.”

She describes the art as eco-conscious because of the recycling involved in the process.

To hone her craft, Telity enrolled in intensive online courses specializing in the technique.

Jumanah Telity transforms bamboo paper into sturdy objects, from baskets to small-scale furniture and figurines. (Supplied)

“I found what I was looking for,” she said. “The study was online, intensive, daily, and very precise in how to teach and train step by step.”

Now among the first Saudi artists to specialize in this form of bamboo art, she credits the Kingdom’s growing cultural landscape for supporting artists exploring niche and rare forms of expression.

“This type of art is considered one of the rarest arts in the world,” she added. “It requires precise skills and a deep understanding of transforming paper into a wood-like material.”

Telity recently displayed her work at Balad Al-Fann in Jeddah’s historic district. She was struck by how strongly the art resonated with visitors. “I noticed people’s amazement and admiration for this art and how they were attracted by the type of art, method of weaving and the strength and ability to withstand external factors,” she said.

She now plans to hold workshops to pass on her skills, with the goal of eventually becoming a certified trainer.

With growing interest from aspiring crafters and a renewed push for cultural innovation across Saudi Arabia, Telity believes the future of this art form is bright.

 


Once a symbol of Najdi homes, Al-Roshen fades from view

Though most contemporary homes are no longer built with an Al-Roshen, the spirit behind it remains. (Supplied)
Updated 4 min 9 sec ago
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Once a symbol of Najdi homes, Al-Roshen fades from view

  • Today, Saudis continue to express hospitality in new ways — hosting events in gardens, villas, or special venues, while maintaining the warmth and generosity that have always defined social gatherings

RIYADH: As Saudi Arabia rapidly modernizes, some elements of its traditional architecture are becoming rarer, but not forgotten.

Once a hallmark of Najdi homes, Al-Roshen remains a cherished symbol of Saudi hospitality and social values, even as lifestyles and housing designs evolve.

“Al-Roshen is a room for special guests,” said Mohammad Alhouti, a resident of Riyadh’s Aldeerah neighborhood.

Though most contemporary homes are no longer built with an Al-Roshen, the spirit behind it remains. (Supplied)

“As soon as a person enters the house through the door, there is a ground-floor sitting room and a staircase. This staircase leads to Al-Roshen, separate so that the guest can go up as soon as they enter the house.”

Unlike the more common majlis, Al-Roshen offered a secluded space for important visitors.

According to Abdulrahman Alhouti, some people would add plaster to the walls of Al-Roshen, creating shapes and decorations that would make it stand out from the main majlis in the house.

FASTFACTS

• Once a hallmark of Najdi homes, Al-Roshen remains a cherished symbol of Saudi hospitality and social values, even as lifestyles and housing designs evolve.

• Unlike the more common majlis, Al-Roshen offered a secluded space for important visitors.

Though most contemporary homes are no longer built with an Al-Roshen, the spirit behind it remains.

Mohammad and Abdulrahman are a part of Thuluthiyyat Almasmak, a weekly cultural gathering held in front of Riyadh’s Al-Masmak Palace.

(From L to R) Abdulrahman Al-Houti, Fahad Al-Hidyyan and Mohammad Al-Houti, members of Thuluthiyyat Almasmak. (AN photo by Jaafer Alsaleh)

Their group includes Fahad Alhidyyan, helping document and share Riyadh’s history through stories of its neighborhoods, streets, schools and everyday life.

Their weekly gathering has reached its seventh year and the group has welcomed all types of visitors, from locals to international tourists coming to Riyadh, to discuss the past and present of the Kingdom’s capital.

“(The gathering) tells the story of the history of Riyadh, its old alleys, streets, schools, farms and everything old, from the time of King Abdulaziz until the beginning of the development,” Abdulrahman said.

Al-Roshan was similar to Almajlis, but with a separate seating area and cushions. It was a room on the second floor in the house where special guests are hosted. (Supplied)

Today, Saudis continue to express hospitality in new ways — hosting events in gardens, villas, or special venues, while maintaining the warmth and generosity that have always defined social gatherings.

“In the past, receiving guests was of great importance. The host would take great care in welcoming his guests, making every effort to provide them with the best he could,” Alhidyyan said.

“People now meet during Eid, weddings, or planned gatherings, though often outside the home. There is a difference, but the intention remains.”

Rather than fading away entirely, Al-Roshen now lives on through cultural forums and conversations that highlight the evolution of tradition in a rapidly changing society.

For those preserving these stories, the goal is not to resist change but to carry forward the values and meaning behind these cultural symbols.

 


Deputy minister receives Ukraine’s ambassador to Saudi Arabia

Abdulrahman Al-Rassi (R) and Anatolii Petrenko in Riyadh. (Supplied)
Updated 13 July 2025
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Deputy minister receives Ukraine’s ambassador to Saudi Arabia

  • Saudi Ambassador to Greece Ali Al-Yousef recently presented his credentials to the country’s president, Constantine Tassoulas

RIYADH: Abdulrahman Al-Rassi, the Saudi deputy minister for international multilateral affairs, received Anatolii Petrenko, Ukriane’s ambassador to the Kingdom, in Riyadh on Sunday.

During the meeting, the two sides discussed bilateral relations as well as prominent developments in regional and international arenas, the foreign ministry wrote in a post on X.

Meanwhile, Saudi Ambassador to Greece Ali Al-Yousef recently presented his credentials to the country’s president, Constantine Tassoulas.

 


Lebanon’s envoy wraps up tenure with visit to Arab News

Lebanon’s ambassador to Saudi Arabia Dr. Fawzi Kabbara visited Arab News’ headquarters in Riyadh on Sunday. (AN photo)
Updated 13 July 2025
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Lebanon’s envoy wraps up tenure with visit to Arab News

  • Kabbara acknowledged the long-standing relationship between Saudi Arabia and Lebanon and praised Arab News for promoting understanding between the two

RIYADH: Lebanon’s ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Dr. Fawzi Kabbara, on Sunday ended his tenure with a visit to Arab News Editor-in-Chief Faisal J. Abbas at the newspaper’s Riyadh headquarters.

During the meeting, Kabbara acknowledged the long-standing relationship between Saudi Arabia and Lebanon and praised Arab News for promoting understanding between the two with its “insightful reporting.”

“It is an honor to celebrate the enduring ties between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia during a time of significant change in the Kingdom under the leadership of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman,” he said.

He highlighted the publication’s commitment to journalistic integrity and said it enriched the media landscape and supported diplomatic relations by keeping diplomats informed on local and regional news.

Lebanon’s ambassador to Saudi Arabia Dr. Fawzi Kabbara and Editor-in-Chief Faisal J. Abbas view editions dating back to the newspaper’s founding in 1975. (AN photo by Huda Bashatah)

Kabbara also emphasized the pivotal role the media played in shaping public opinion and fostering cross-cultural dialogue.

During his tour of the newspaper’s headquarters, the envoy viewed editions dating back to its founding in 1975, including its first Christmas cover, the transformation under Abbas’ leadership in 2016 and award-winning editorial cartoons capturing key moments in world history.

Looking ahead, Kabbara said this was not the end of his time in the Kingdom. He expressed his eagerness to return “wearing a different hat” so he could witness the growth of Lebanon-Saudi relations and Arab News’ evolving role.

He concluded by expressing sincere gratitude to Arab News and Abbas. For his part, Abbas thanked the ambassador for his visit and wished him success in his future endeavors.


French ambassador highlights growing partnership with Saudi Arabia

Patrick Maisonnave, France’s ambassador to Saudi Arabia. (Supplied)
Updated 13 July 2025
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French ambassador highlights growing partnership with Saudi Arabia

  • Frequent meetings between the crown prince and the French president show that France and Saudi Arabia are trusted strategic partners, ambassador says

RIYADH: On July 14, Bastille Day, France marks the founding values of its republic — liberty, equality and fraternity — and celebrates its ties with global partners.

The holiday, rooted in the 1789 storming of the Bastille that marked a turning point in the French Revolution, was first celebrated in 1790 at the Fete de la Federation and officially declared a national holiday in 1880. It remains a symbol of unity, democracy and openness.

Speaking to Arab News, Patrick Maisonnave, France’s ambassador to Saudi Arabia, reflected on relations between Paris and Riyadh.

He noted the growing strategic partnership, expanding economic cooperation, increasing presence of French companies in the Kingdom, cultural and tourism exchanges and France’s role in promoting regional stability.

After a year in Riyadh, Maisonnave described the relationship as “vibrant.”

“The dynamic is very positive,” he said. “This first year allowed us to formalize our strategic partnership, as evidenced by the historic state visit of the French president last December.”

The two countries had worked to deepen cooperation in the political, economic, cultural and defense fields, he said.

France and Saudi Arabia were now trusted strategic partners, something that was evidence by the frequent meetings between the crown prince and the French president, he said.

France is the second-largest foreign investor in Saudi Arabia, with major projects in energy, infrastructure, transport and healthcare.

“It’s not said enough,” Maisonnave said. “France is the second-largest foreign investor in Saudi Arabia, particularly in strategic sectors like renewable energy, transport and health.”

Projects include TotalEnergies’ partnership with Saudi Aramco in managing the SATORP refinery and developing the Amiral petrochemical complex. Engie has nearly $9 billion worth of energy and water assets and EDF is involved in desalination (Amaala) and power generation (Taiba and Qasim) projects worth about $5 billion.

French firms are also contributing to the Riyadh Metro and the AlUla experiential tramway, while Airbus has secured more than 300 aircraft orders from Saudia, Flynas, Riyadh Air and AviLease.

Other French companies active in Saudi Arabia include Veolia, Accor, Bouygues, Alstom, Thales and JCDecaux, contributing to urban development and infrastructure.

“I am pleased with the technologies we bring in support of Vision 2030,” the ambassador said.

More than 200 French companies are operating in the Kingdom, employing about 13,000 people. The Franco-Saudi Business Council, which has more than 300 members, reflects this growing activity.

Maisonnave said the council’s membership was about 75 percent Saudi-French companies and 25 percent French firms operating in Saudi Arabia.

Last month 34 French companies established regional headquarters in the Kingdom. The ambassador also welcomed the opening of the Public Investment Fund office in Paris.

“This sends a strong signal of the Kingdom’s intention to deepen investments in France and Europe, especially in forward-looking sectors,” he said.

On the subject of tourism cooperation, Maisonnave highlighted France’s expertise in promoting landscapes, heritage, culture and gastronomy, which he said was appreciated by Saudis throughout the year.

French expertise is being applied in the development of AlUla, supported by the French Agency for AlUla Development, in archaeology, sustainability, hospitality and tourism training.

Maisonnave noted France’s involvement in other parts of the Kingdom, including museum construction, sports infrastructure, hotel and event management, and training programs.

He has visited several major projects such as Diriyah, Qiddiya, King Salman Park, the King Salman International Airport and Expo 2030.

“These projects will contribute to transforming the Kingdom’s image. I am proud each time French expertise is called upon,” he said.

The resumption of Air France’s direct Paris–Riyadh route is seen as a step that strengthens ties.

“Saudis appreciate France and more French citizens are visiting Saudi Arabia, discovering its holy sites, archaeological heritage, beaches, entertainment options and its football league,” Maisonnave said.

On cultural cooperation, he said more than 15 French archaeological missions were active in Saudi Arabia.

Maisonnave also highlighted support for initiatives like the creation of Saudi Arabia’s first national ballet and training programs for students in fashion and gastronomy.

Two key projects are planned in the coming months. On Oct. 2, Villa Hegra in AlUla will be inaugurated as a residence for both Saudi and French artists.

In January 2026, the Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale will open a Franco-Saudi “Factory” dedicated to dance and immersive arts, the ambassador said.

Following the president’s visit, a French Institute was opened in Saudi Arabia to organize and enhance cooperation across various cultural and educational fields, he said.

Maisonnave said lasting political solutions were essential for regional stability. Regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, he said that real stability required implementing a two-state solution that addressed the legitimate aspirations of Palestinians and Israel’s security concerns.

He condemned the violence, describing the events of Oct. 7, the massacres in Gaza and extremist settler attacks as violations of international law and shared human values.

“I am deeply concerned by short-term policies that will only lead to more atrocious suffering, bloodshed unfortunately calls for more blood,” he said.

France and Saudi Arabia would soon co-chair a conference at the UN General Assembly to advance the two-state solution, with all countries invited to propose concrete measures, Maisonnave said.

Beyond Palestine, he noted growing coordination between Paris and Riyadh on regional issues including Lebanon, Iran’s nuclear program and Syria.

He concluded by highlighting the strength of the political relationship between the two countries, expressing confidence that “Saudi Arabia and France can play a constructive role across the region.”