So I finally got Civ 5 out of my system sufficiently to play some Sword of Islam. Phew!

Can anyone recommend an interesting Muslim faction? I'm currently playing Mali so I can experiment with the new features in relative peace. Once I have a grip on how it all works I intend to start a proper game. I'd been wondering about the Seljuks in 1066, or the Mongols after they convert, or Saladin. On reflection that might not be the best idea. Huge pre-built juggernauts of constant warfare are not exactly my gameplay cup of tea; if I'm going to play an aggressive game I prefer to build my own empire - and I do plan to play a very aggressive game for once as the Islamic gameplay ruleset seems designed with that in mind. I don't want anything too small or challenging for this first proper game. Something medium-sized, nicely positioned, decently wealthy?

Secondly, are there any particular aspects of Sword's gameplay I should aim to try out ASAP? Anything which makes the Muslim factions particularly cool?