Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is recognized as one of the largest nations in the Middle East, specifically located in the southwestern part of Asia. Its total area is approximately two million square kilometers. The country shares its northern borders with Iraq and Jordan, while Kuwait lies to the northeast. On the eastern side, it is bordered by Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. The Kingdom of Bahrain is connected to Saudi Arabia via the King Fahd Causeway, which spans the Arabian Gulf. To the south, Yemen forms its boundary, and Oman lies to the southeast, with the Red Sea bordering the western side. Saudi Arabia boasts a rich religious and historical significance, and this article will explore some of the most beautiful cities within the Kingdom.
Mecca
Mecca is one of the holiest cities for Muslims, situated in the western region of Saudi Arabia. It covers an area of approximately 850 square kilometers and is located 277 meters above sea level. The population of Mecca is estimated to be around 1,675,000, distributed across both its old and new neighborhoods. The city houses several sacred sites, most notably the Grand Mosque and the Kaaba.
Major Landmarks in Mecca
- The Grand Mosque: Known as one of the largest mosques in Islam, it is home to the Kaaba, regarded as the first structure built on Earth. The mosque serves as the qibla for Muslims during prayer and is named as such because the Prophet Muhammad prohibited fighting within its vicinity. It contains several important features, including the Station of Ibrahim, the Black Stone, and the Hijr Ismail.
- Cave of Hira: This sacred site is where the first revelation was received by Prophet Muhammad. It is a cavity located in a mountain with an entrance facing north, measuring approximately three-quarters of an arm’s length, and can accommodate up to five individuals.
- Cave of Thaur: Positioned to the south of Mecca, this cave is historically linked to the migration of the Prophet to Medina.
- Minna: This desert area lies to the east of Mecca and plays a significant role in the Hajj pilgrimage, specifically during the ritual of throwing stones at the Jamarat during the final days of Hajj, at sunrise and sunset.
Most Beautiful Cities in Saudi Arabia
- Medina: Found in the western part of Saudi Arabia, Medina is the city where Prophet Muhammad is buried, ranking as the second holiest city in Islam following Mecca.
- Riyadh: As the capital city of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh is home to several significant tourist attractions, including the King Fahd Cultural Center, Tuwaiq Palace, King Fahd Stadium, and Al-Dira Square, among many others.
- Qatif: Located in the eastern region of Saudi Arabia, Qatif is a historic city renowned for its dates and a variety of fish. The area features numerous market stalls selling a wide range of goods and is considered the largest fish market in the Kingdom as well as the entire Arabian Gulf region.