Medina, officially known as al-Madinah al-Munawwarah, is the capital and administrative center of Medina Province in the Hejaz region of western Saudi Arabia. Historically referred to as Yathrib during pre-Islamic times, it is recognized as one of the oldest and most significant locations in Islamic history. It holds the status of the second holiest city in Islam.
The city covers an area of 589 km2 (227 sq mi), with its urban zone spanning 293 km2 (113 sq mi). The surrounding landscape consists of the Hejaz Mountains, empty valleys, agricultural spaces, and dormant volcanoes. As of 2022, Medina is the fourth-most populous city in Saudi Arabia, with a population of 1,477,023 composed of approximately 58.5% Saudi citizens and 41.5% foreigners.