Madinah, once known as Yathrib, is the second holiest city in Islam. It became a shelter for Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his companions and later grew into a center of Islamic civilization. For millions of Muslims, visiting Madinah is a deeply spiritual experience that strengthens their faith.
But how do you visit these sacred places in the right way? Which places should you include in your journey? This simple guide will take you through everything you need to know—step by step.
What is Ziyarat?
Ziyarat means visiting holy places with the intention of seeking spiritual blessings. Unlike Hajj and Umrah, which are obligatory, Ziyarat is an encouraged act of worship. It allows Muslims to connect with their faith by visiting sites related to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), his family, and his companions.
But how do you visit these sacred places in the right way? Which places should you include in your journey? This simple guide will take you through everything you need to know—step by step.
How to Perform Ziyarat in Madinah
1. Prepare with the Right Intention
- Before visiting any holy site, make a sincere intention (Niyyah) that your journey is purely for the sake of Allah.
- Perform Wudu (ablution) before entering any mosque or sacred place.
2. Follow the Proper Etiquettes
- Pray two Rakat Sunnah at each site if possible.
- Maintain silence and humility.
- Avoid unnecessary photography and loud conversations.
- Recite Durood (salutations upon the Prophet) and seek Allah’s forgiveness.
3. Visit the Holy Places in Order
- Start with Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, the most important site in Madinah.
- Plan your visits in a structured way to ensure you don’t miss any significant landmarks.
Must-Visit Places in Madinah
1. Al-Masjid an-Nabawi – The Prophet’s Mosque
This is the second holiest mosque in Islam and the burial place of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), along with his closest companions, Abu Bakr (RA) and Umar (RA).
Highlights
- Rawdah – A special area in the mosque, described as a garden from Paradise.
- The Prophet’s Tomb – Located in the southeastern corner of the mosque.
- Baab-as-Salaam – The entrance for pilgrims to send greetings to the Prophet (PBUH).
Tip: Stand in front of the Prophet’s resting place, send Salam, and recite Durood Shareef with devotion.
2. Quba Mosque – The First Mosque in Islam
Located 3 km from Masjid an-Nabawi, Quba Mosque was the first mosque built in Islam, with its foundation laid by the Prophet (PBUH) himself.
Why Visit?
- Praying two Rakat here carries the reward of performing Umrah.
- It was a place the Prophet (PBUH) visited weekly.
Tip: Try to visit on a Monday or Saturday, following the Prophet’s Sunnah.
Planning your visit ? Book Relible, private taxi strating just from 199/- SAR
3. Jabal Uhud – The Mountain of Martyrs
This historic mountain witnessed the Battle of Uhud in 625 CE, where 70 companions, including the Prophet’s uncle Hamza (RA), were martyred.
What to Do Here?
- Pray for the martyrs at the Uhud graveyard.
- Reflect on the lessons of patience and trust in Allah from this battle.
4. Masjid Ahzab (Sabamasajid) – The Trench Mosque
Sabah Masajid, also known as the Seven Mosques, is a group of historic mosques in Madinah, marking key locations from the Battle of the Trench. The main mosques include Masjid Al-Fath, Masjid Salman Al-Farsi, Masjid Abu Bakr, Masjid Umar, and Masjid Ali. Though some have disappeared over time, the site remains an important landmark for pilgrims.
Tip: Recite Surah Al-Ahzab, which describes this historic event.
5. Jannat ul Baqi – The Cemetery of the Prophet’s Family & Companions
This is the burial place of many important figures in Islamic history, including:
- Imam Hasan (RA) (grandson of the Prophet)
- Fatima (RA) (daughter of the Prophet)
- Uthman Bin Affan (RA) (third Caliph of Islam)
Tip: The cemetery is only open to men, and visiting hours are limited to the morning.
6. Masjid Jummah – The First Friday Prayer Mosque
This is where the Prophet (PBUH) led the first-ever Friday congregational prayer after migrating to Madinah.
Tip: Pray two Rakat Sunnah here and reflect on the importance of Jummah prayers in Islam.
7. Beer e Ghars – The Prophet’s Well
This is one of the wells from which the Prophet (PBUH) drank water. He also requested to be bathed with its water after his passing.
Tip: Visit with the intention of learning about the simple and blessed life of the Prophet (PBUH).
8. Salman Farsi Dates Farm – A Historic Plantation
Near Masjid Quba, this farm belonged to Salman Farsi (RA), a close companion of the Prophet. The Prophet (PBUH) himself planted date trees here.
Tip: Try the Ajwa dates, as they hold special significance in Islam.
Important Ziyarat Information for Women
- Al-Masjid an-Nabawi – Women can visit the Prophet’s Rawdah at specific times.
- Jannatul Baqi – Unfortunately, women are not allowed inside.
- Other sites – Women can visit all other places while maintaining modesty and wearing proper Islamic attire.
Final Thoughts
Visiting these sacred places in Madinah is a beautiful experience that brings you closer to Islam. Whether you’re praying at Masjid an-Nabawi, standing in reflection at Jabal Uhud, or seeking blessings at Quba Mosque, each site has deep spiritual meaning.
May your journey be filled with peace, blessings, and acceptance from Allah.
