Medina: The Radiant City

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaban]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wadaean]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [laa]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [aathirana]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayf halak?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bi-khayr. wa-ant?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatahadath al-inglizia?]
• I don't understandأنا لا أفهم
  [ana la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [uridu an ara al-qaimah, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [ana la akul al-lahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك
  [fi sahatik]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأريد أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [uridu an adfaa, min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [al-najdah!]
• Go away!انصرف!
  [insiraf!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [iatisal bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [iatisal bitabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت الطريق
  [laqad dallat al-tariq]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أريد أن أشتري...
  [uridu an ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتطلع
  [ana faqat atatallaa]
• How much is it?بكم هذا؟
  [bi-kam hadha?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hadha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk khafdh al-sa'ar?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam al-saa'ah?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [al-saa'ah al-wahidah]
• Half past (10)العاشرة والنصف
  [al-aashirah wan-nisf]
• Morningصباح
  [sabah]
• Afternoonبعد الظهر
  [ba'd al-dhuhr]
• Eveningمساء
  [masaa]
• Yesterdayأمس
  [ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [al-yawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnaan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'ah]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsah]
• 6ستة
  [sittah]
• 7سبعة
  [sab'ah]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamania]
• 9تسعة
  [tasia]
• 10عشرة
  [ashara]

• Where's a/the...?أين...؟
  [ayna...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma huwa al-anaan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuk an turini (ala al-kharitah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى يأتي الحافلة القادمة؟
  [mata yati al-hafilah al-qadimah?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ...)
  [tadhkirah (ila ...)]

Before the advent of Islam, Medina, known as Yathrib, was a thriving oasis inhabited by various tribes. The city was a hub for agriculture and trade, thanks to its fertile land and strategic location on ancient trade routes. Jewish tribes and Arab tribes coexisted in the city, and its diverse population engaged in commerce, farming, and craft production.

In 622 CE, the Prophet Muhammad and his followers migrated from Mecca to Yathrib in an event known as the Hijra. This migration marked the beginning of the Islamic calendar. Yathrib was later renamed Medina, meaning 'The City of the Prophet.' The Hijra was a turning point in Islamic history, establishing Medina as the first Islamic state and a pivotal center for the Muslim community.

Shortly after arriving in Medina, Prophet Muhammad established the Charter of Medina, a formal agreement between the various tribes and inhabitants of the city. This charter outlined the rights and duties of all citizens, promoting unity and cooperation among the diverse population. It is considered one of the first written constitutions in the world, setting a precedent for governance and community relations.

In 624 CE, the Battle of Badr took place near Medina. This was the first major battle between the early Muslims and the Quraysh tribe of Mecca. Despite being outnumbered, the Muslims achieved a decisive victory, which significantly boosted their morale and established their military prowess. The battle is often cited as a testament to the power of faith and strategic planning.

In 625 CE, the Battle of Uhud occurred near the hills of Mount Uhud, just outside Medina. Unlike the Battle of Badr, this confrontation did not end favorably for the Muslims, who faced a significant defeat. Despite the loss, the battle was an important lesson in unity and obedience, reinforcing the importance of collective effort and resilience.

In 628 CE, the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah was signed between the Muslims of Medina and the Quraysh tribe of Mecca. The treaty established a ten-year truce and allowed Muslims to perform pilgrimage in Mecca. Although initially perceived as a setback by some, the treaty ultimately facilitated the spread of Islam by enabling peaceful interaction and dialogue between the two communities.

In 630 CE, the Muslims, led by Prophet Muhammad, peacefully conquered Mecca. This event marked the culmination of years of conflict and the unification of the Arabian Peninsula under Islam. The Prophet's return to Mecca was characterized by forgiveness and reconciliation, exemplifying the principles of mercy and compassion.

After the death of Prophet Muhammad in 632 CE, Medina remained a significant political and religious center as the capital of the Rashidun Caliphate. The first four caliphs, known as the 'Rightly Guided Caliphs,' ruled from Medina, overseeing the expansion of the Islamic empire and the consolidation of Islamic teachings and governance.

In the 16th century, Medina became part of the Ottoman Empire, which ruled the city for over four centuries. During this period, the Ottomans invested in the city's infrastructure, including the expansion and renovation of the Prophet's Mosque. Medina flourished as a center of religious learning and pilgrimage, attracting scholars and devotees from across the Muslim world.

In the 20th century, Medina underwent significant transformation as part of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The discovery of oil and subsequent economic development led to modernization and urbanization. Today, Medina is a bustling city that seamlessly blends its rich historical heritage with contemporary advancements. The Prophet's Mosque remains a focal point for millions of pilgrims who visit the city each year, reflecting its enduring significance in the Islamic world.

Medina, known as Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah, is located in the Hejaz region of Saudi Arabia. The nearest international airport is Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport (MED), which is approximately 15 kilometers from the city center. Direct flights are available from major cities around the world. You can also reach Medina by train through the Haramain High-Speed Railway, connecting it to Jeddah and Mecca, or by bus services operated by the Saudi Public Transport Company (SAPTCO).

Medina offers various transportation options. Taxis are plentiful and can be hailed on the street or booked via ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem. For public transport, Medina has a network of buses operated by SAPTCO, which cover the main routes within the city. Renting a car is another viable option, with several international and local car rental agencies available at the airport and in the city. Walking is also a pleasant option within the central areas, especially around the Prophet's Mosque.

The official currency is the Saudi Riyal (SAR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors and markets. ATMs are available throughout the city, including at the airport, shopping malls, and near religious sites. Currency exchange services are also available at the airport, banks, and major hotels.

Medina is generally considered a very safe city for tourists. The crime rate is low, and the city is well-policed. However, it's always wise to take standard precautions: avoid poorly-lit areas at night, keep your belongings secure, and remain vigilant in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but always exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz Hospital and King Fahd Hospital are among the main medical facilities in the city. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For lost or stolen items, contact the nearest police station.

Fashion: Do dress modestly. Men and women should wear loose-fitting clothing that covers the arms and legs. Women should also cover their hair with a headscarf. Religion: Do show respect for Islamic customs and practices. Non-Muslims are not allowed to enter the Prophet's Mosque, but they can visit parts of the city. Public Transport: Do be respectful of local customs. Avoid eating or drinking on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with 'As-Salamu Alaikum' (Peace be upon you). Handshakes are common between men but avoid physical contact with the opposite gender. Eating & Drinking: Do try the local cuisine. Don't eat, drink, or smoke in public during the daylight hours of Ramadan.

To experience Medina like a local, visit the local markets such as Souq Al-Madina where you can buy traditional goods and souvenirs. Engage with locals who are often welcoming and willing to share insights about their culture and history. Don't miss visiting the Quba Mosque, the first mosque built in Islam, and the Uhud Mountain, a significant historical site. For a unique experience, enjoy a traditional Saudi meal at a local restaurant.