Riyadh—Saudi Arabia’s dynamic capital—is a blend of ultra-modern architecture, deep heritage, world-class museums, and dramatic desert landscapes just beyond the city limits. Here are the best things to do:

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⭐ Top Historical & Cultural Sites

1. Diriyah (At-Turaif District, UNESCO Site)

• Birthplace of the Saudi state

• Beautiful mudbrick architecture

• Museums, walking paths, and evening light displays

• Bujairi Terrace offers amazing dining with historical views
  Must-see: At-Turaif Living Museum

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2. National Museum of Saudi Arabia

• One of the finest museums in the Middle East

• Exhibits on Arabian history, Islamic civilizations, and Bedouin culture

• Located within King Abdulaziz Historical Center

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3. Masmak Fortress

• Symbolic site where the modern Kingdom was founded

• Restored mudbrick fort with exhibits about Riyadh’s early days

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🏙️ Modern Landmarks & Skylines

4. Kingdom Centre Tower

• Iconic skyscraper

• Sky Bridge offers panoramic views of Riyadh—especially at sunset

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5. Al Faisaliah Tower

• One of Riyadh’s signature architectural icons

• Observatory and restaurants with skyline views

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6. Riyadh Boulevard & Boulevard World

• Huge entertainment zones with shops, cafes, rides, concerts

• Nightlife-style energy, fountains, themed districts

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🕌 Mosques, Souks & Heritage Areas

7. Souk Al Zal

• Traditional marketplace

• Oud, swords, jewelry, spices, carpets, antiques

• Great photography spot

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8. Imam Turki bin Abdullah Grand Mosque

• Main mosque in the old quarter

• Impressive architecture and a focal point of traditional Riyadh

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🌿 Nature, Parks & Outdoor Activities

9. Wadi Hanifa

• Long valley with lakes, palm groves, walking and biking paths

• Excellent for picnics and peaceful strolls

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10. King Abdullah Park

• Nightly fountain shows

• Large green park for families and evening relaxation

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🏜️ Desert Adventures Near Riyadh

11. Edge of the World (Jebel Fihrayn)

• One of Saudi Arabia’s most iconic natural sites

• Massive cliffs overlooking endless desert

• Best at sunrise or sunset

• Go with a guide if you’re unfamiliar with desert driving

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12. Red Sand Dunes

• Popular for dune bashing, ATV rentals, camel rides

• Perfect for an afternoon adventure

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13. Thumama Desert

• Camping, stargazing, hiking, sandboarding

• Easy access from central Riyadh

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🎨 Art, Culture & Activities

14. Riyadh Art & Public Sculptures

• City-wide program with huge modern art installations

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15. King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (local branches)

• Exhibitions, workshops, and cultural events

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16. The Royal Clock Tower Museum in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter

• Unique architecture and quiet cultural spaces nearby

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🍽️ Food & Dining

17. Bujairi Terrace (Diriyah)

• Riyadh’s premier dining district

• Saudi, Middle Eastern, fusion, and luxury restaurants

• Best evening atmosphere in the city

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18. Local Saudi dishes to try

• Kabsa / Mandi (spiced rice with meat)

• Mutabbaq

• Harees / Jareesh

• Arabic coffee & dates

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🛍️ Shopping & Markets

19. Riyadh Front

• Modern shopping & dining complex

• Popular for evening hangouts

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20. Al Nakheel Mall / Riyadh Park

 

• Huge malls with restaurants, cinemas, VR parks, and international shops

AlUla is an oasis city surrounded by towering sandstone cliffs, ancient Nabataean tombs, lush date farms, and surreal desert formations. It is one of the most beautiful and archaeological rich places in the entire Middle East.

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🌟 Major Historical & Archaeological Attractions

1. Hegra (Madain Saleh) – UNESCO World Heritage Site

The crown jewel of AlUla.

• Over 100 Nabataean tombs carved into rose-gold cliffs

• Sister city to Petra but far quieter

• Must-see sites:

  • Qasr al-Farid (The Lonely Castle)

  • Tomb of Lihyan Son of Kuza

  • Jabal Ithlib and Diwan

• Guided tours are required and very well organized

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2. Dadan & Jabal Ikmah

A journey into pre-Nabataean Arabian kingdoms.

• Dadan: capital of the Dadanite & Lihyanite kingdoms

• Rock-cut lion tombs

• Archaeological site under active excavation

• Jabal Ikmah: an open-air library of ancient inscriptions

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3. AlUla Old Town

A beautifully restored mudbrick village with:

• Narrow heritage alleys

• Date shops

• Forts and viewpoints

• Cozy cafés and local restaurants

• Night-time lantern ambiance

Great for photography and slow cultural exploring.

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🏜️ Natural Wonders & Landscapes

4. Elephant Rock (Jabal AlFil)

The most iconic rock formation in AlUla.

• Giant sandstone “elephant”

• Sunset cafés with cushions and fire pits

• Perfect place for relaxing in the evening

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5. The AlUla Oasis Trail

A peaceful, easy walk through:

• Date palm groves

• Water channels & fields

• Traditional farmhouses

• Shaded green paths framed by cliffs

Excellent for early morning or golden hour.

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6. Rock Formations & Valleys

AlUla is filled with dramatic landscapes:

• Rainbow Rock

• The Arch

• Hidden canyons

• Sandstone pillars & mushroom rocks

Guided 4x4 tours are ideal for reaching these areas.

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🛫 Adventure & Outdoor Activities

7. Stargazing in the Desert

AlUla is a certified Dark Sky destination.

• Crystal-clear starlight

• Guided astronomy tours

• Bedouin-style setups with tea & fire

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8. Hiking & Trekking

Great trails surround the city:

• Al Madakhel Canyon

• Harrat Viewpoint hike

• Elephant Rock loop

• Desert ridge hikes

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9. Hot Air Ballooning (seasonal)

During Winter at Tantora festival periods:

• Sunrise flights over cliffs, tombs, and canyons

• Incredible aerial photography opportunities

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10. Zipline & Adventure Parks

Try AlUla’s long desert zipline or adventure circuits for an adrenaline kick.

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🎭 Cultural & Modern Experiences

11. Maraya Hall

The world’s largest mirrored building.

• Reflects the desert like an art piece

• Hosts concerts, exhibitions, and major events

• A must-visit even just for photos

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12. Farms, Markets & Local Life

• Date tastings

• Citrus farms

• Handicraft shops

• Local cooking (mandi, kabsa, grilled lamb, desserts)

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🌅 Scenic Viewpoints

13. Harrat Uwayrid Viewpoint

One of the best views in Saudi Arabia.

 

• Overlooks the entire AlUla valley

• Dramatic basalt landscape from ancient lava fields

• Perfect for sunset or sunrise

Madain Saleh—officially known as Hegra—is Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site and the southern sister city of Petra. Spread across a vast desert landscape, it is filled with monumental Nabataean tombs, ancient inscriptions, mysterious sandstone temples, and remarkable desert scenery.

Below is everything you can see and do:

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🏛️ 1. Visit the Iconic Qasr al-Farid (“The Lonely Castle”)

The most famous tomb in Hegra.

• A massive, isolated sandstone monolith

• Beautifully carved façade

• Left unfinished, giving insight into Nabataean construction

• Best visited near sunset when the cliffs glow gold

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🪦 2. Explore the Tomb of Lihyan, Son of Kuza

One of the largest and most majestic tombs in the site.

• Towering multi-story façade

• Rock-cut steps

• A ceremonial prominence in ancient times

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🏜️ 3. Walk Through the Ancient Residential & Sacred Areas

Hegra was more than tombs. You can explore:

• Temple ruins

• Residential quarters

• Administrative buildings

• Wells and water systems

• Rock inscriptions telling stories of caravans and religious rituals

These show how the Nabataeans lived, not just how they buried their dead.

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📜 4. Discover Jabal Ithlib & the Diwan

This dramatic sandstone mountain served as a sacred gathering place.

• The Diwan is a carved ceremonial chamber used for political or ritual meetings

• Narrow passageways called Siq-like canyons mirror Petra’s landscapes

• Nearby inscriptions detail religious and public life

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🏺 5. See the Trained Camel Caravans Route

Hegra was a key stop on the ancient incense trade route.

You can explore:

• Carved wayfinding markers

• Rest stops

• Caravan sites

• Tracks that are still visible in the desert

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🌅 6. Enjoy a Sunrise or Sunset Tour

Hegra is spectacular at golden hour.

• Sunrise paints the rock faces pink

• Sunset turns everything deep orange and gold

• Ideal for photography

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🛺 7. Take the Guided Bus Tour

All visitors must explore Hegra through structured tours.

These include:

• A comfortable shuttle taking you to each major point

• Expert guides explaining history and archaeology

• Stops for walking, photos, and exploring

• Water and shade provided

Tours are extremely well organized and last 2–3 hours.

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🌌 8. Nighttime Visits & Stargazing

Hegra is part of a certified Dark Sky Reserve.

• Stargazing events

• Astronomy talks

• Bedouin-style seating

• Warm tea and fires under the stars

It’s one of the best stargazing sites in the Middle East.

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🐪 9. Explore Desert Lookouts & Scenic Panoramas

Around the tombs are stunning geological formations:

• Wind-carved sandstone walls

• Natural amphitheaters

• Desert valleys perfect for photography

• Unique mushroom and pillar formations

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🧭 10. Visit Nearby AlUla Attractions (often combined with Hegra)

Many travelers pair Hegra with:

 

• Dadan archaeological site

• Jabal Ikmah (open-air library)

• Elephant Rock

• AlUla Old Town

Jeddah is the cultural and coastal heart of western Saudi Arabia. It blends ancient coral-stone architecture, modern seaside promenades, world-class diving, and a thriving food and arts scene. It’s one of the country’s most atmospheric and enjoyable destinations.

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🌆 1. Explore Historic Jeddah (Al-Balad) – UNESCO Site

Jeddah’s old town is its soul.

Highlights:

• Naseef House – climb to the rooftop for sunset views over Al-Balad

• Coral-stone merchant houses (historic, with ornate wooden balconies)

• Traditional souks: spices, perfumes, gold, antiques, fabrics

• Art galleries and restored heritage structures

• Nighttime is especially atmospheric with lanterns and old alleys lit up.

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🕌 2. Visit the Floating Mosque (Al Rahma Mosque)

A white mosque built on stilts over the Red Sea.

• Beautiful at sunrise or sunset

• Peaceful sea views

• One of Jeddah’s most iconic photography spots

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🌊 3. Walk the Jeddah Corniche

A long, beautiful seaside promenade.

What to do:

• Sunset walks

• Public art & sculptures

• Cafés along the waterfront

• Views of modern high-rises

• Watch the King Fahd Fountain, the tallest water jet in the world

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🐠 4. Go Snorkeling or Diving in the Red Sea

Jeddah has some of the best coral reefs in the world.

Popular dive & snorkel spots:

• Sharm Obhur

• Blue Hole

• South Corniche reefs

• Outer reef boat trips

• Private beach clubs with reef access

Expect:

• Coral gardens

• Turtles

• Colorful fish

• Clear warm water

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🏖️ 5. Relax at Red Sea Beaches

Most beaches in Jeddah are private or semi-private.

Popular options:

• Silver Sands Beach

• Indigo Beach

• La Plage

• Durrat Al Arus (mini resort town)

Great for swimming, tanning, and watersports.

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🏛️ 6. Jeddah Sculpture Museum

An open-air exhibition along the Corniche featuring works by:

• Henry Moore

• Jean Arp

• Alexander Calder

Amazing spot for art lovers.

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🛍️ 7. Shopping in Jeddah

Traditional:

• Souk Al Alawi

• Souk Al Nada

• Souk Al Badawi

Modern:

• Red Sea Mall

• Mall of Arabia

• Jeddah Park

• Al Basateen complex

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🍽️ 8. Enjoy Jeddah’s Food Scene

Jeddah has some of the best food in Saudi Arabia.

Must-try Saudi dishes:

• Mandi

• Kabsa

• Saleeg (creamy Hijazi rice)

• Mutabbaq

• Fresh seafood

International & upscale areas:

• North Corniche

• Obhur

• Al Rawdah

• New waterfront restaurants

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🖼️ 9. Jeddah Waterfront & New Jeddah Downtown

Beautiful modern districts with:

• Cafés

• Restaurants

• Play areas

• Cycling and walking paths

• Marina views

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🕍 10. Day Trips from Jeddah

You can easily visit nearby:

• Taif – cool mountain city, roses, cable cars

• Makkah – for pilgrims only

• Yanbu – quiet Red Sea beaches, diving

• KAEC (King Abdullah Economic City) – modern coastal city with beaches and golf

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🌅 11. Sunset Views

Best places:

• Jeddah Corniche

• Yacht marina

• Private beach clubs

• Floating Mosque area

• Northern seafront walkways

Taif is known as the City of Roses, perched high in the mountains of the Hijaz. Its cooler climate, dramatic mountain roads, lush farms, and cultural heritage make it a refreshing contrast to the desert cities below.

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🌹 1. Visit the Taif Rose Farms

Taif is famous for its Damask roses, used for perfume and rose water.

What you can do:

• Tour rose fields (especially March–April bloom season)

• Watch rose distillation in traditional copper stills

• Buy authentic rose oil, soaps, and sweets

• Visit popular farms like Al Gadhi or Al Qahdi Rose Factory

The scent is unforgettable.

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🏞️ 2. Ride the Al-Hada Mountain Cable Car

One of the most scenic experiences in Saudi Arabia.

• Cable car glides over cliffs, valleys, and winding roads

• Ends near Al Kar Tourist Village

• Views of the serpentine road (“The Hada Snake Road”) are spectacular

• Great for sunsets

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🐒 3. Drive Through the Al-Hada Mountain Road

A stunning mountain route with:

• Dramatic switchbacks

• Clifftop viewpoints

• Wild baboons (be cautious—they love snacks!)

• Great places to stop for panoramic photos

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🐪 4. Visit the Taif Souk (Traditional Market)

Located in Old Taif, this market is famous for:

• Rose products

• Spices and incense

• Honey

• Handmade crafts

• Hijazi clothing and jewelry

The Souk Okaz Festival is also held annually nearby, recreating ancient Arabian culture.

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🕌 5. Explore Shubra Palace

A beautiful historical palace made of wood and stone.

• Hijazi architectural style

• Palace-turned-museum

• Great insight into pre-modern Arabian royal life

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🌳 6. Relax in Al Rudaf Park

One of the prettiest parks in Taif.

• Granite boulder formations

• Lakes and fountains

• Family-friendly walking trails

• Nighttime light shows on weekends

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🦓 7. Visit the Taif Zoo (optional)

Nice for families; includes:

• Animal exhibits

• Gardens

• Small amusement rides

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🐎 8. King Khalid Mountain Park & Taif National Park

Great for:

• Hiking

• Picnics

• Panoramic viewpoints

• Cooler weather

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🕌 9. Visit Al Shareef Museum

A private heritage museum displaying:

• Antique household items

• Old weapons

• Manuscripts

• Traditional clothing

• Keys to Kaaba replicas

• Vintage cars

One of the best cultural stops in Taif.

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🍇 10. Taste Taif’s Local Foods

Taif is known for:

• Fresh mountain grapes

• Stone-oven bread

• Lamb dishes (mandi, kabsa)

• Rose honey

• Apricots and figs (seasonal)

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🌄 11. Go Hiking & Mountain Exploring

Hiking spots include:

• Al Shafa Highlands

• Jabal Daka

• Al-Hada viewpoints

• Small trails around Taif’s cliffs

Temperatures are cool even in summer.

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🎡 12. Al Kar Tourist Village

A fun stop combining:

• Restaurants

• Ride attractions

• Cable car station

• Mountain views

• Ropeway over the valley

Medina is the second holiest city in Islam and a place of tranquility, spirituality, and deep history. Even beyond its religious significance, the city offers museums, cultural sites, markets, and beautiful landscaped areas that visitors can enjoy.

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🌙 1. Visit the Area Around Al-Masjid an-Nabawi

While non-Muslims cannot enter the Prophet’s Mosque itself, the surrounding areas are open to all.

Highlights around the mosque:

• Beautiful plazas with patterned marble

• Giant umbrella canopies that open and close with the sun

• Nighttime lights illuminating the entire area

• Calm, peaceful walkways perfect for evening strolls

• Shopping streets and cafés nearby

Even from outside, the atmosphere is incredibly serene.

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🕌 2. Quba Mosque (Exterior Areas)

The first mosque in Islamic history.
Non-Muslims may respectfully visit the area around the mosque.

• Beautiful white domes

• Peaceful gardens

• Great photography from the outside

• Historic neighborhood around it

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🏛️ 3. Explore the Dar Al Madinah Museum

One of the best history museums in Saudi Arabia.

What you’ll find:

• Detailed models of the old city

• Exhibits on Medina’s ancient neighborhoods

• History of Islamic architecture

• Artifacts from early trade and settlement

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🧱 4. Visit Mount Uhud (Jabal Uhud)

A dramatic mountain just outside the city.

Things to do:

• Walk around the base of the mountain

• Learn about the historic Battle of Uhud (info signs provided)

• Visit viewpoints overlooking the valley

It’s especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset.

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🥾 5. Visit the Seven Mosques (from Outside Areas)

A scenic historic complex on the slopes of Mount Sala.

You can enjoy:

• Courtyards

• Gardens

• Scenic foothills

• Architectural views

The area is calm and atmospheric.

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🌴 6. Stroll Through the Qiblatain Area

Qiblatain Mosque’s surrounding neighborhood offers:

• Quiet streets

• Palm groves

• Beautiful modern Arab architecture

The area is peaceful and photogenic.

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🌳 7. Explore King Fahd Garden & Green Parks

Medina is greener than most travelers expect.

Parks include:

• King Fahd Garden

• Al Rawdah Park

• Al-Hijaz Park

Great for walking, relaxing, and escaping the midday sun.

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🛍️ 8. Shop in Traditional Markets

Medina’s markets offer unique regional items.

Best souks:

• Souk Al-Salam – souvenirs, perfumes, dates

• Taiba Commercial Center – clothing, gold, carpets

• Dates Market – Medina Ajwa dates are world-famous

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🍽️ 9. Try Hijazi Food

Medina cuisine is delicious and hearty.

Dishes to try:

• Kabsa

• Mandi

• Saleeg (creamy rice)

• Mutabbaq

• Fresh Medina dates

Restaurants near the mosque offer local and international dishes.

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🌅 10. Walk the Medina Corniche (Wadi al-Aqiq Area)

A newer landscaped river valley walkway:

• Palms

• Running paths

• Cafes

• Water features

• Seating areas

Perfect for evening relaxation.