Madinah, Saudi Arabia

Madinah, also known as Medina, holds great significance in Islam as the second holiest city after Makkah. It became important in 622 CE when Prophet Muhammad and his followers migrated there, an event known as the Hijra, marking the beginning of the Islamic calendar. In Medina, Muhammad established the first Islamic state and community, and it was here that the Masjid al-Nabawi (Prophet’s Mosque) was built, which houses the Prophet’s tomb. The city played a crucial role in the spread of Islam, with several key events, including battles and treaties, occurring there. After Muhammad's death in 632 CE, Medina remained a key center of Islamic leadership. Today, it continues to be a major destination for Muslim pilgrims, especially those performing the Umrah.