Friday, June 24, 2011

Sojourn in Saudi Arabia


My sister and I finally arrived in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia at around 7am local time. Waiting for outside was our parents and brother. I was very much excited for the trip as we would all be together again after more than 2 years. Of course, it would also be another chance to practice travel photography.

Sarawat Mosque, Jeddah

Saudi Arabia is bordered by the Red Sea on its west. Before traveling to the holy places, I was able to visit the beaches it had to offer. Obhur, is the place to be. The area holds a number of beach resorts w/ nice rooms if you would like to stay there over-night. You can rent a boat if you would like to go scuba diving or snorkeling. The following photos are from 2 different resorts: Reem Riviera and Silver Sands.

Enjoying life's simple pleasures at Silver Sands Resort

The Red Sea beckons, Reem Riviera Resort

Pathway to cafe, Reem Riviera Resort

Lifeguard missing? Silver Sands Resort

As a Muslim, I consider my vacation in the kingdom as a blessing. I was fortunate enough to visit the holy places namely Makkah and Madinah. After a few days in Jeddah, we visited Makkah first as it was only a 30-40min drive away. I didn't bring my DSLR to Makkah becuase it wasn't aloud inside the Masjid al-Haram. I got goosebumps when I entered the holy mosque. It was very beautiful inside and too see so many people of different color and race was just overwhelming. For those who are not aware, Makkah is where the prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) was born. The Masjid al-Haram is considered to be the house of Allah (SWT).

Taken along the highway from Jeddah to Madinah

After a week, we visited Madinah which is about 400km away from Jeddah. We left Jeddah late in the afternoon and arrived at Madinah at almost 7pm, just in time for the Maghrib prayer. Madinah is 2nd holiest place for muslims as it where prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) fled when his death was ordered. Madinah is where Islam first flourished, where the first mosque was built.

Masjid Quba, first mosque ever built.

Madinah is also the location of the prophet's mosque or Al-Masjid al-Nabawi. The tomb of prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) is inside this mosque.

Al-Masjid al-Nabawi, Madinah

Following are more photos of Madinah. Enjoy!

Masjid al-Qiblatain

Hey Mr. Arab Man! (an arab vendor taking a break)

Mount Sala Mosque

One of the 7 old mosques in Madinah.

The meeting of new and old.