What City Is Known as the City of the Prophet?
Medina is revered as the City of the Prophet because it was the center of the Prophet Muhammad’s life, leadership, and final resting place. It remains one of the most sacred destinations for Muslims worldwide.
About Medina - The city is known as the city of the Prophet
Medina, formerly known as Yathrib before the Prophet Muhammad's migration there in 622 CE, is located in the Hejaz region of western Saudi Arabia. Its full honorific Arabic name is Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah, which translates to "The Enlightened City," while Madīnat an-Nabī literally means "City of the Prophet." The name reflects Medina's central role in Islamic history as the city where he lived, led the early Muslim community, and is buried.
Quick Details:
- Full name: Madinah al-Munawwarah (The Enlightened City or The Radiant City).
- Located in western Saudi Arabia, about 400 km north of Mecca.
- It is the second-holiest city in Islam after Mecca.
- Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) migrated here from Mecca in 622 CE (the Hijra), established the first Muslim community, and passed away and was buried here in 632 CE.
The Prophet’s Mosque (Al-Masjid an-Nabawi) — one of the largest and most important mosques in the world — is located in the heart of Medina and contains his tomb. Millions of Muslims visit every year to pray there, especially during the Umrah and Hajj seasons.
Other Names:
- Yathrib (its ancient name before the Prophet’s arrival).
- The City of the Prophet (Madinat al-Nabi).
Note: Non-Muslims are not permitted to enter Makkah. In Madinah, access to the Prophet's Mosque and certain religious areas is restricted in accordance with Saudi regulations.
Why is Medina called the city of the Prophet?
Medina is the second-holiest city in Islam (after Mecca) due to its pivotal role in the life of the Prophet Muhammad and the early history of the religion:
The Hijrah (Migration): In 622 CE, fleeing persecution in Mecca, Prophet Muhammad and his early followers migrated to Yathrib. This monumental event, known as the Hijrah, marks the starting point of the Islamic Hijri calendar.
The First Islamic State: Upon his arrival, the city was renamed Madīnat an-Nabī. It became the administrative and spiritual capital of the rapidly expanding early Muslim community.
The Prophet's Mosque: Muhammad personally helped build Al-Masjid an-Nabawi (The Prophet's Mosque) in the heart of the city. Today, it features the iconic Green Dome, which marks the exact site of his burial chamber.
Medina, in Saudi Arabia, is the City of the Prophet — named for its role as the place the Prophet Muhammad settled after leaving Mecca and as the location of his tomb within Al-Masjid an-Nabawi. It remains one of the most significant cities in Islam, second only to Mecca, and continues to draw millions of visitors each year as part of Hajj, Umrah, or standalone religious visits.
