Understand

Madain Saleh, an awe-inspiring Nabataean city carved out of rock, bears a resemblance to Jordan's world-famous Petra. This remarkable site has been included in UNESCO's tentative list for World Heritage designation [1]. Despite its undeniable allure, Madain Saleh remains relatively unknown due to its location in Saudi Arabia. Fortunately, access to the site is easy, with tourist buses and knowledgeable guides available to provide insights into its rich history. It's worth mentioning that some Muslims choose not to enter the area due to a narration in Bukhari [2] and a section in the Qur'an [Al-Hijr 15:80] that reference the cautionary tale associated with these houses.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Kabsa is a traditional Saudi Arabian dish made with fragrant basmati rice, meat (usually chicken or lamb), vegetables, and an array of aromatic spices. The dish is cooked in a large pot, often decorated with intricate patterns etched into the surface of the pot, and typically served communally from a shared platter.

Shawarma is a Middle Eastern street food favorite in Saudi Arabia, consisting of marinated meat (often chicken, beef, or lamb) that is slowly roasted on a vertical spit. Once cooked, the thin slices of meat are stuffed into pita bread, garnished with fresh vegetables and sauces, and served as a sandwich or wrap. Vegetarian options are also available with grilled vegetables or falafel.

Falafel is a popular vegetarian dish made from mashed chickpeas or fava beans, herbs, and spices formed into small balls or patties. They can be eaten as a snack, appetizer, or part of a meal, and are commonly found in sandwiches (like shawarma) or served alongside salads, hummus, and other mezze-style dishes.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing