The Prophet's Mosque Library in Madinah has opened its doors to pilgrims arriving in the city after completing this year's Hajj, offering international visitors access to one of the oldest endowed libraries in the Islamic world. According to the Saudi Press Agency, the library is welcoming worshippers into a calm, tranquil setting where they can explore a centuries-old repository of manuscripts, rare books and digital resources.

The opening comes as large numbers of pilgrims travel to Madinah following the 1447 AH Hajj season to pray at the Prophet's Mosque and visit the city's historical landmarks. For many, the library offers a quiet space for reflection and study away from the crowds.

A Centuries-Old Repository of Islamic Knowledge

The Prophet's Mosque Library serves researchers, students and scholars from around the world, and its collection reflects the depth of Islamic scholarly heritage. The library houses some 4,000 original manuscripts, alongside nearly 60,000 digitized and photographed manuscripts that preserve fragile works for future generations.

Its holdings also include more than 250 rare handwritten copies of the Qur'an, some dating back many centuries, as well as 4,600 multimedia items. Together, these collections make the library an important center for the preservation of global Islamic heritage.

As an endowed institution, the library reflects a long tradition of waqf, or charitable endowment, that has supported scholarship in the two holy cities for generations. Its ongoing digitization program also means that fragile manuscripts can be studied without risk to the originals, opening the collection to researchers far beyond Madinah.

To support visitors and researchers, the library maintains specialized sections, including a dedicated manuscript hall, a rare books section and an audio library. Modern digital cataloging services allow researchers to locate materials quickly, combining traditional scholarship with contemporary technology.

Where to Find the Library

The main library is located on the western side of the Prophet's Mosque, near staircase 10. Dedicated facilities for female researchers are situated on the northern side of the mosque near gate 24, and on the northwestern side near gate 12.

The arrangement allows both men and women to access the collections in comfortable, well-organized spaces. Staff and digital systems help visitors navigate the holdings, whether they are seeking a specific manuscript or simply wish to spend time in a place of learning.

Part of a Wider Pilgrim Experience in Madinah

The library's opening to pilgrims forms part of the Kingdom's broader effort to enrich the experience of those who travel to Madinah after Hajj. Visiting the Prophet's Mosque is not an obligatory part of Hajj, but it holds great significance for the many pilgrims who wish to send greetings upon the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and pray in his mosque.

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "A prayer in this mosque of mine is better than a thousand prayers elsewhere, except for the Sacred Mosque" (Sahih al-Bukhari 1190). This virtue draws pilgrims to Madinah in large numbers, and authorities have expanded services across the city to accommodate them.

Practical Tips for Pilgrims

  • Plan your visit: The library is on the western side of the Prophet's Mosque near staircase 10. Note the separate entrances for women near gates 24 and 12.
  • Respect the setting: The library is a place of study and quiet. Keep voices low and phones on silent.
  • Handle with care: Original manuscripts are fragile and access may be restricted. Ask staff before handling rare materials and use the digital catalog where available.
  • Combine with worship: Many pilgrims visit the library between prayers, making it easy to pair study with time in the mosque.
  • Allow extra time: Madinah is busy after Hajj. Arrive early and follow the guidance of staff and signage to move through the area smoothly.