Medina, Saudi Arabia

Capital City

The population of 1,411,599 may seem alluring, but Medina's reality is a heavy tax burden and persistent bureaucratic headaches. Scorching summers with temperatures over 45°C are the norm, while winters offer little respite. And with the Saudi government's demolition of historic sites, the city has sacrificed much of its character in the name of religious orthodoxy. Ultimately, Medina is best suited for die-hard religious pilgrims, not those seeking a vibrant cultural experience.