AlQuds

Al-Quds, meaning "the Holy," is the Arabic name for Jerusalem, a city in the Levant. In Arabic-speaking discourse, the name is used to refer to the city itself and to emphasize its religious significance. Jerusalem is a longstanding religious and cultural center for Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, and its Old City contains several sites sacred to these faiths.

Geography and urban layout: The city lies in the Judean Hills between the Mediterranean coast and the Jordan Valley. The Old City is traditionally divided into four quarters—Jewish, Muslim, Christian, and Armenian—surrounded by a modern urban area that extends beyond the ancient walls.

History and political status: Jerusalem has been governed by various powers since antiquity. In 1967, Israel captured East Jerusalem during the Six-Day War, and in 1980 declared the entire city to be its capital, a move not recognized by most of the international community. The status of Jerusalem remains a core issue in the Israeli–Palestinian conflict, with Palestinians seeking East Jerusalem as the capital of a future state and most states maintaining embassies in Tel Aviv rather than in Jerusalem. The city continues to host a diverse population and is subject to ongoing political and security developments.

Cultural significance and institutions: The city is home to major religious sites such as the Western Wall, the Temple Mount/Haram al-Sharif, and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. The name Al-Quds is also used by institutions and media named after the city, including Al-Quds University near Abu Dis and Al-Quds, a Palestinian newspaper published in Jerusalem.