The Cost of Living in Medina: A Comprehensive Guide

As the second holiest city in Islam, Medina is a popular destination for pilgrims. But it’s also a great place to live, with its rich cultural heritage, modern amenities, and favorable cost of living. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the cost of living in Medina and provide some tips on how to live there on a budget.

Housing Costs

Housing is one of the most significant expenses in Medina, but it’s still affordable compared to other cities in Saudi Arabia. The cost of an average two-bedroom apartment in the city center ranges from SAR 2,500 to SAR 4,000 per month, while a similar apartment outside the city center costs around SAR 1,500 to SAR 3,000 per month. If you’re looking to buy a property, prices can range from SAR 700,000 to SAR 1,500,000 for a two-bedroom apartment.

Transportation Costs

Medina has a reliable and efficient public transportation system, which makes it easy and affordable to get around the city. The cost of a one-way ticket on a local bus is only SAR 3, while a monthly pass costs around SAR 60. Taxis are also available throughout the city, and the average cost of a one-way trip is SAR 10.

Food Costs

The cost of food in Medina varies depending on your preferences and where you shop. If you’re on a budget, you can find fresh produce, meat, and other essentials at local markets for a fraction of the cost of supermarkets. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs around SAR 25, while a fast-food meal at a chain restaurant costs around SAR 20.

Healthcare Costs

Medina has a world-class healthcare system, and residents have access to modern medical facilities and highly trained doctors. The cost of healthcare in Medina is also affordable, with a standard doctor’s visit costing around SAR 150. Private health insurance is also available from various providers, with coverage starting at around SAR 3,000 per year.

Education Costs

If you have children, you’ll be pleased to know that Medina has some of the best schools in the region. The cost of education varies depending on the school, but on average, tuition fees for primary and secondary education range from SAR 10,000 to SAR 35,000 per year.

Utilities Costs

The cost of utilities in Medina is also affordable, with an average monthly bill of around SAR 400 for electricity, water, and gas. However, it’s important to note that during the summer months, when temperatures can soar above 40°C, your electricity bill can increase significantly if you’re running air conditioning units for extended periods.

Conclusion

Overall, Medina offers an affordable cost of living, with housing, transportation, food, healthcare, and education all within reach of most budgets. With its rich cultural heritage and modern amenities, living in Medina is a truly unique experience that offers the best of both worlds. So, if you’re considering a move to Saudi Arabia, be sure to add Medina to your list of cities to explore.

The Insider’s Guide to Living and Visiting Medina

Medina, also known as Medinah or Madinah, is a city in Saudi Arabia that is considered one of the most important religious destinations in the world because it is home to the prophet Muhammad’s tomb. As such, it has always been a pilgrimage site for Muslim believers, but in recent times, it has also become an increasingly popular travel destination for tourists of all religious and cultural backgrounds. In this guide, we will look at the cost of living in Medina as well as some of the local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Local Attractions

One of the most popular attractions in Medina is the Prophet’s Mosque or Al-Masjid an-Nabawi. This iconic site is considered the second holiest mosque in Islam, and it contains the tomb of the prophet Muhammad. Inside the mosque, visitors can witness the beautifully decorated prayer hall and the brass tomb screen that surrounds the prophet’s grave.

Another notable attraction in Medina is the Quba Mosque, which is believed to be the first mosque built by the prophet Muhammad upon his arrival in Medina. Visitors can marvel at the simplistic beauty of the mosque’s architecture that consists of various domes and arches.

To experience the Islamic culture and history of Medina, tourists should visit the Islamic University of Madinah. It is a leading Islamic institution known for teaching the Arabic language and Islamic studies. Tourists can explore the campus and admire the various fountains, gardens, and architecture.

Dining Spots

Medina is well-known for its street food culture, with vendors called Tandoors selling savoury local dishes. One such dish is the Al’baian dish which comprised of lamb, bread, and a mix of spices. Tandoors can be found all around the city, but the most popular location is in the lively neighborhood close to the Prophet’s Mosque.

Although street food is prevalent in Medina, some restaurants offer a fine dining experience. One such restaurant is the Madina Oberoi where tourists can savor Indian cuisine, and enjoy a tandoori dish while overlooking the mosque.

Another option is the much-loved fast-food chain, Al Baik, famous for its crispy chicken and also has vegetarian options on its menu.

Cultural Experiences

Medina’s rich Islamic history offers visitors cultural experiences that allow them to immerse themselves in the local traditions and customs. Men can wear traditional Saudi garments and visit a local barber for a shave and haircut. Women can try traditional Saudi Arabian attire like the Abaya and the Hijab, whilst visiting one of the many women-only salons available.

Tourists can also attend a Ziyarah, a form of pilgrimage that involves visiting the sites of Islamic importance for prayer and remembrance, to experience the piety and devotion of the local community. The Medina dates market is another cultural experience; here, tourists can indulge in various types of Saudi dates while learning about their cultural and religious significance.

Local History

Medina is a city that has been shaped by centuries of Islamic history. One of the most interesting historical sites in Medina is the Qasr al-Hud, believed to be a palace constructed by the prophet Muhammad. The palace is over 1,400 years old and was originally used as the base from which the prophet Muhammad launched his campaigns to convert the Arabian Peninsula.

Another historical site in Medina is the Jannatul Baqi, a cemetery that contains the graves of many of the prophet Muhammad’s companions and several members of his family. Visiting the site is considered a religious obligation by many Muslims.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

One of the best ways to explore Medina is on foot. Visitors can discover hidden gems and local haunts by taking a walking tour of the city. The historically-rich neighborhood of Old Medina is famous for its handicrafts and souks, where tourists can pick up traditional goods and souvenirs.

For those seeking adventure, Jeep tours of the nearby desert and oases are a great way to experience the natural beauty of the surrounding area. Other popular activities among tourists include spending a day at the Ta’if Rose Garden, exploring the Madain Saleh Historic Village, and visiting the horses at the Shumaisi Wildlife Reserve.

The Cost of Living in Medina

Medina is not an expensive city to live in, but as with most pilgrimage cities, accommodations and food close to the holy sites tend to be more expensive than those farther away. Tourists staying in hotels close to the Prophet’s Mosque may find themselves paying up to double the cost compared to hotels farther out. Food sold in the city’s popular tourist areas is also expensive compared to street food sold by vendors in the outskirts of the city.

Public transportation in Medina is economical, with fares starting at around 3 SAR ($0.80), while taxis are a bit more pricey, with fares starting at around 15 SAR ($4).

Overall, Medina offers a unique blend of Islamic culture and history, and a visit to this holy city is a must for anyone interested in Islamic traditions and history. With its rich heritage, great food, and friendly locals, Medina is a must-see destination in Saudi Arabia.