What to do in Madina - Latest News

Planning to visit Mecca this week? You’ll need a valid permit to enter. Starting Monday, April 13, residents and expatriates without official permits are not allowed to enter Mecca. Saudi authorities confirmed that only people with proper documentation can pass through checkpoints. Entry is limited to: Individuals with a valid Hajj permit Residents with a Mecca-issued residency ID Workers holding permits for the Holy Sites Without the permit, entry is not possible. Eligible individuals can obtain permits through the Absher Individuals platform: Premium Residency holders investors GCC citizens non-Saudi mothers of Saudi citizens non-Saudi family members domestic workers Mecca is...

Getting ready for Hajj 2026? Vaccinations are one of the few steps you can’t afford to delay, and missing a required one can stop your trip before it starts. The rules apply to all pilgrims aged one year and above. Here’s the list of required and recommended vaccines. Hajj 2026 mandatory vaccines what every pilgrim must have Meningococcal ACYWRequired for all pilgrims. Must be taken at least 10 days before arrival, with valid proof of vaccination. Polio vaccineRequired only for travellers from countries where polio is still circulating. The dose must fall within the approved timeframe before travel. Yellow fever...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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,...

Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has announced a major development near Great Mosque in Mecca that will provide around 900,000 new indoor and outdoor praying spaces. This project, named King Salman Gate, spans 12 million sqm (equivalent to nearly 1,700 football fields) and aims to improve access to Great Mosque for pilgrims and visitors. King Salman Gate is planned as a mixed-use project, combining residential, hospitality, commercial, and cultural spaces. The goal is to enhance the services currently provided in the area, ensuring better quality and accessibility for those visiting Great Mosque. The development will be connected to...