About the Saracen UT (I don't know if it's still needed though) I come up with something different. Madrasah doesn't seem too attractive, but Mixed Stables might be an alternative. However, I came up with this:
- Jihad (350 food, 150 gold): Petards 2x attack; 2x damage vs. buildings OR +2 pierce armor; 2x damage
Reason:
- from historical perspective 'Jihad' is one of the 5 pillars of Islam, meaning being ready to sacrifice in the name of religion
- for the game - besides Arena or Fortress (sometimes BF) we don't see Petards being used. And Saracens need lots of gold for their army, but Petards will become a cheaper option for them
Jihad is not one of the 5 pillars of Islam
Yes, you're right. But the idea stands because Jihad was one of the beliefs of Muslims in medieval times.