The Prophet's Mosque ﷺ (Masjid Nabawi)

Overview

The Prophet's Mosque ﷺ (Masjid Nabawi) is one of the holiest sites in Islam, located in the historic city of Medina. Established adjacent to the house of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ following his migration in 622 CE, the mosque has served as a profound center of worship, community governance, and education since the early days of Islam. It holds immense religious significance as the final resting place of the Prophet ﷺ, alongside his close companions Abu Bakr Al-Siddiq and Umar ibn Al-Khattab. Millions of pilgrims from around the world visit Masjid Nabawi annually, drawn by its deep spiritual meaning and heritage.

Architecture & Features

Masjid Nabawi is renowned for its remarkable architectural grandeur and vast capacity, accommodating over one million worshippers. The mosque's notable features include:

• Ten towering minarets, each exceeding 100 meters in height
• Fifty-six retractable domes designed to enhance ventilation and natural lighting
• Giant umbrellas in the courtyards that provide shade and comfort for worshippers
• Modern facilities such as air conditioning, escalators, and expansive prayer halls

The mosque has undergone several expansions, including significant contributions by Caliph Umar ibn Al-Khattab, the Ottoman Empire, and modern developments led by successive Saudi kings. These enhancements have preserved its spiritual essence while incorporating contemporary technology for crowd management and security.

Visiting Guidelines

Masjid Nabawi welcomes visitors around the clock, with dedicated prayer areas for men and women to ensure a respectful and comfortable atmosphere. Pilgrims performing Hajj or Umrah commonly include a visit to the mosque as a cherished part of their spiritual journey. One of the most revered acts is performing ziyarah by visiting the Prophet's tomb and offering prayers in the Rawdah, located between the tomb and the Prophet’s pulpit. Visitors are encouraged to maintain decorum and follow the mosque’s guidelines to preserve its sanctity.

Nearby

• Historic sites and museums detailing Islamic heritage in Medina
• Commercial areas offering traditional crafts and souvenirs
• Accommodations ranging from modern hotels to pilgrim guesthouses within walking distance