If you are planning a trip to Medina, the Prophet’s Mosque is the first stop for any visitor. This grand mosque is not just a religious landmark; it is a story of history and civilization that has spanned more than 1,400 years. It combines spiritual sanctity with architectural beauty that captivates hearts before the eyes.

The Significance of the Prophet’s Mosque

The Prophet’s Mosque is the second holiest mosque in Islam after the Sacred Mosque in Mecca. It was built by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ with his own hands after his migration to Medina, serving as the nucleus of the first Islamic state. Since then, the mosque has remained the pulsating heart of the city and a focal point for Muslims from all corners of the earth.

The Green Dome — An Icon You Cannot Miss

The most famous landmark of the Prophet’s Mosque is the Green Dome that crowns the Noble Chamber, where the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and his companions Abu Bakr al-Siddiq and Umar ibn al-Khattab, may God be pleased with them, are buried. This dome has become a global symbol of Medina and appears in every commemorative image of the city.

The Saudi Expansion — From One Hundred to Four Hundred Thousand Worshippers

The Prophet’s Mosque has witnessed massive expansions throughout history, but the Saudi expansions were the largest and most extensive. Today, the mosque accommodates more than 400,000 worshippers inside the main courtyard, with the number reaching over one million during peak times such as Ramadan. The massive canopies in the outdoor courtyards, escalators, and central air conditioning — all modern technologies — serve visitors at the highest level.

The Prophet’s Mosque Library — A Treasure of Manuscripts

Inside the mosque is an ancient library that houses thousands of rare manuscripts and valuable Islamic books. The library is open to researchers and visitors and is considered one of the oldest libraries in the Islamic world. It contains manuscripts that date back hundreds of years.

Tips for Visiting the Prophet’s Mosque

  • Visiting Times: The mosque’s doors are open 24 hours a day. The least crowded times: after Fajr prayer and before Maghrib prayer.
  • The Noble Rawdah: Between the Prophet’s pulpit and his house — it is one of the gardens of Paradise. Requires booking via the Tawakkalna app or the Zair app.
  • Attire: Wear modest clothing appropriate for the sanctity and religious nature. Women are advised to wear an abaya.
  • Photography: Allowed in the outdoor courtyards, but it is preferable not to take photos inside the mosque out of respect for worshippers.
  • Hotels: Many hotels are just steps away from the mosque, catering to all budgets from five-star to budget-friendly.

How to Reach the Prophet’s Mosque?

Medina has an international airport (Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Airport) that receives flights from most cities around the world. From the airport to the Prophet’s Mosque is about twenty minutes by car. The Haramain High-Speed Railway connects you from Mecca or Jeddah directly to Medina train station, and the station is only ten minutes away from the mosque.

In Summary: The Prophet’s Mosque is more than just a mosque. It is an inspirational and historical stop not to be missed. Whether you come for Umrah, Hajj, or simply tourism, your trip to the city is not complete without visiting this great landmark.