For most pilgrims, visiting the Prophet's Mosque in Madinah and praying in the Rawdah is one of the most cherished spiritual experiences of their Hajj journey. While visiting Madinah is not a pillar of Hajj, the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: "Between my house and my minbar is a garden from the gardens of Paradise" (Sahih al-Bukhari 1195, Sahih Muslim 1391). Here is everything you need to know about accessing the Rawdah during the 2026 Hajj season.
What Is the Rawdah?
The Rawdah - also known as Riyad ul-Jannah - is the area inside the Prophet's Mosque (Masjid an-Nabawi) between the Sacred Chamber (where the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, is buried) and his Minbar (pulpit). It is identifiable by its distinctive green carpet, contrasting with the red carpet in the rest of the mosque.
The space is relatively small, and demand - especially during Hajj season - is enormous. Without a booking, you will not be able to access it. Saudi authorities manage access strictly to prevent dangerous overcrowding in this confined area.
How to Book Your Visit
Booking is mandatory and managed entirely through the official Nusuk app. The process is straightforward:
- Open the Nusuk app (available on Apple App Store and Google Play)
- Navigate to the Rawdah booking section
- Select your preferred date and time slot
- Confirm your booking
It is strongly recommended to book at least a week in advance, particularly during Hajj season when slots fill up very quickly. The Nusuk app, which now has over 51 million users globally, replaced the older Eatmarna booking system and consolidates all mosque visit bookings in one place.
Visiting Hours
The Rawdah operates on a gender-separated timetable to manage crowds and ensure everyone can pray comfortably:
- Women's hours: After Fajr (dawn) prayer until Dhuhr (noon) prayer begins
- Men's hours: After Dhuhr prayer through until Isha (night) prayer
- Women's hours (evening): After Isha prayer until approximately midnight
Arriving early for your allocated slot is essential. Queues can be long even with a booking, and the allocated time inside the Rawdah is limited. Many pilgrims find the early morning women's slot or the period just after Dhuhr for men to be the least crowded.
What to Do When You Get There
Once inside, pray two rak'ahs if possible. The Rawdah is a place where du'as are especially encouraged. Many scholars recommend preparing a du'a list in advance so you can make the most of your time in this blessed space. Do not rush - but be mindful that others are waiting behind you.
After praying in the Rawdah, pilgrims typically visit the grille of the Sacred Chamber to send salawat upon the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) and greetings to his companions Abu Bakr and Umar (may Allah be pleased with them), who are buried beside him. Stand respectfully, lower your voice, and say: "As-salamu alayka ya Rasulallah" (Peace be upon you, O Messenger of Allah).
Practical Tips
- Keep your phone charged - you need the Nusuk app to show your booking at entry
- Arrive at least 30 minutes early - the queue to enter starts well before your slot
- Leave bags and valuables at your hotel if possible - the less you carry, the more comfortable the experience
- Wear modest, comfortable clothing - you may be standing in the queue for some time
- Prepare your du'as in advance - write them down or save them on your phone so you do not waste precious time inside trying to remember
- Be patient and gentle - the crowds can be intense, especially near the Sacred Chamber. Remember the hadith: "He is not of us who does not show mercy to our young ones and respect to our elders" (Tirmidhi 1919)
When to Visit Madinah
Most Hajj packages include Madinah either before or after the Hajj rites. Pilgrims arriving via Madinah first will have several days to visit the Prophet's Mosque, the Rawdah, and other significant sites before travelling to Makkah for Hajj. Those visiting after Hajj will typically spend 3-5 days in Madinah before returning home. Either way, book your Rawdah visit as soon as your Madinah dates are confirmed - do not leave it until you arrive.