Ain Zubaidah stands as a testament to ancient engineering, a water system commissioned over 1,200 years ago by Zubaidah, wife of the Abbasid Caliph Harun al-Rashid. Moved by the plight of pilgrims, she ordered the creation of a complex network to channel water from the Al-Kar mountains to the holy sites of Makkah. This 35-kilometre feat of engineering combined underground channels, surface aqueducts, and deep reservoirs, some reaching 40 metres underground, to traverse the arid landscape. Though time has left much of the original structure in fragments, sections have been restored, including a major renovation in the 1920s. The system's scale remains awe-inspiring, with its gentle gradients, 132 inspection chambers, and strategic storage tanks. Today, visitors can explore remnants of the conduits in the foothills around Makkah, a tangible link to a visionary project that sustained generations of pilgrims.

Bring time to the serene Fei Lai Feng mountain park and marvel at the area's hundreds of Buddha stone carvings, surrounded by lush greenery and an indescribable tranquil atmosphere. Much of the walk will entail hiking uphill to Lingyin Temple, so bring comfortable shoes.

The Hira Cultural District, situated at the foot of Jabal Al-Nour, offers a multifaceted approach to one of Islam's most significant historical sites. Not only a gateway to the Cave of Hira, the district itself is a destination with museums, gardens and cafes. Key facilities include the Revelation Gallery, which details the story of the divine revelation through immersive technology, and the Museum of the Holy Quran. For those undertaking the strenuous climb, the district provides a modern base with amenities, while its cultural exhibits offer a profound context for the spiritual journey ahead.

Embark on an interesting journey through time at the Brigade Museum, immersing yourself in the transformative years from 1945 to 1991, a period deeply influenced by the Cold War's impact on Sweden. The exploration commences with the aftermath of WWII, delving into the post-war era amidst a defeated and ravaged Germany. Visitors are transported back in time, gaining insight into the lives of people, the pervasive influence of politics on daily life, and the palpable atmosphere of living through the Cold War. The museum unveils the "Golden Age" of Swedish brigades during this period, showcasing cutting-edge armoured vehicles and weapon systems.