Discover the New Safiya Market: Medina’s Latest Gem Near the Prophet’s Mosque

Discover the New Safiya Market: Medina’s Latest Gem Near the Prophet’s Mosque

When you visit Madinah, the spiritual journey around the Prophet’s Mosque is often complemented by the search for the perfect souvenir, a box of world-famous dates, or a convenient place for a family meal. Catering to this need is the city’s newest attraction: the New Safiya Market. This vibrant marketplace has quickly become a must-visit destination for pilgrims and tourists, offering a condensed and convenient retail experience infused with the unique charm of the holy city.

This guide will provide you with everything you need to know to explore the New Safiya Market, from its strategic location and how to get there, to a detailed walkthrough of its diverse shops and eateries.

Finding Your Way to the New Safiya Market

Location is key, and the New Safiya Market benefits from a prime spot that is both accessible and memorable. The market is situated directly beneath the Al-Safiya Bridge, a clever use of space that has transformed a previously overlooked area into a thriving social and commercial hub.

Key Landmarks for Navigation:

• Starting Point: The most straightforward route begins at the Prophet’s Mosque’s Gate 303. Exiting from this gate, you’ll pass the Al-Safiya Emergency Care Center, a free medical clinic for visitors and residents—a testament to the excellent services provided by the Saudi government.
• The Al-Safiya Museum: As you continue, you will see the prominent Al-Safiya Museum (also known as the “Beginning of Creation” museum). The market is located right next to this museum, making it an easy landmark to spot.
• Nearby Hotels: The market is also within easy walking distance of major hotels like the Pullman ZamZam and the Crowne Plaza, making it a convenient outing for their guests.

The entire walk from the mosque precincts is pleasant, taking you through beautifully landscaped paths with green spaces and seating areas, setting a relaxed tone for your shopping excursion.

A Walk Through the Market’s Diverse Sections

The New Safiya Market is thoughtfully organized into distinct sections, allowing visitors to navigate based on their interests. The market is particularly enchanting in the evening when soft lighting and the cool Medina air create a magical atmosphere.

Section 1: A Paradise of Dates, Nuts, and Sweets

The first section you’ll likely encounter is a sensory delight dedicated to Medina’s most famous export: dates. The air is sweet, and the displays are abundant and colorful.

• What You’ll Find: Shops here are filled with high-quality, fresh dates of all varieties. Look for the prized ‘Ajwat Al-Madinah’ (Ajwa dates from Medina), known for their superior quality and significance. You’ll also find ‘Rutab’ (fresh soft dates) , and many other types.
• Beyond Dates: The shops also offer a wide array of:
  • Nuts: Almonds, pistachios, walnuts, and mixed nut assortments.
  • Date-Based Products: Creative products like date-filled chocolates, date spreads, and date extracts.
  • Sweets: Traditional Saudi sweets and other confectioneries.
• Price Insight: During a recent visit, prices were observed to be reasonable. Standard date varieties started at around 15 SAR per kilogram, while premium types like high-quality Ajwa could range from 25 to 35 SAR per kilogram. It’s always good to compare a few shops before making a purchase.

This section is the perfect place to buy gifts for family and friends back home, offering beautifully packaged boxes and baskets.

Section 2: Souvenirs, Gifts, and Fashion

Moving further into the market, the focus shifts from edible goods to lasting mementos and practical items.

• Souvenirs and Tchotchkes: This is your go-to area for keepsakes. Shops are stocked with a variety of items emblazoned with “Makkah” and “Medina,” including:
  • Decorative plates and wall hangings.
  • Prayer beads (Misbaha) and small prayer rugs.
  • Model replicas of the Holy Kaaba and the Prophet’s Mosque.
  • Keychains, magnets, and other small trinkets.
• Fashion and Accessories: For those looking for wearable items, there are several shops offering:
  • Abayas: Beautifully designed abayas for women.
  • Perfumes and Attar: Shops dedicated to traditional Arabic scents and perfumes, often in ornate bottles.
  • Accessories: Such as traditional caps (kufis) and other fashion items.

The shops here are a mix of small kiosks and slightly larger storefronts, all designed to offer a wide selection without requiring you to travel far from the mosque.

Dining and Refreshments at the New Safiya Market

After shopping, visitors can refuel at one of the several dining options integrated into the market. The food court area offers a range of choices to suit different tastes and budgets.

• Local and International Fast Food: Several counters serve popular items like burgers, shawarma, fried chicken, and pizza.
  • Price Example: A basic burger was observed to be priced around 12 SAR, while a large pizza with chicken cost approximately 40 SAR.
• Pakistani Cuisine: For those craving more specialized flavors, there is a restaurant offering traditional Pakistani meals, including Biryani.
• Beverages and Desserts: You can find fresh juices, Kuwaiti “Dhood” (a milk-based drink), and various desserts.
• Price Note: As is common in tourist-centric locations, prices here are slightly higher than in the city’s main commercial districts—typically by about 2-4 SAR per item. However, the convenience of having these options within a short walking distance from the mosque is a significant advantage for many visitors.

Why the New Safiya Market is a Welcome Addition

The New Safiya Market represents a smart and thoughtful development in Medina’s urban planning. By utilizing the space beneath a bridge, the city has created a new hub of activity that serves a clear purpose for the millions of visitors who come each year. It provides a safe, clean, and organized environment for shopping and dining, enhancing the overall visitor experience without detracting from the spiritual sanctity of the surrounding area.

Whether you’re looking for a last-minute gift, wanting to sample different date varieties, or simply need a comfortable place to sit and have a meal after a long day of prayer and reflection, the New Safiya Market stands ready to serve. It has firmly established itself as a valuable and enjoyable stop on any itinerary for those fortunate enough to visit Medina.