Madinah

Masjid an-Nabawi, the Rawdah permit system, and a city that moves at half Makkah's pace.

Madinah is the city of Masjid an-Nabawi and the second holiest city in Islam. It lies 450 km north of Makkah, 2 hours 10 minutes by Haramain high-speed rail. Most Umrah itineraries from India include 3-4 nights here.

Madinah at a glance

Madinah key facts for Umrah travellers
Distance from Makkah450 km, 2h 10m by rail
Typical stay3-4 nights
Rawdah permitFree, via Nusuk, one per 30 days
Summer high42°C

What to see

Masjid an-Nabawi

The Prophet's Mosque, the Rawdah and the green dome. Rawdah access requires a timed Nusuk permit.

Masjid Quba

The first mosque built in Islam, 5 km south. Two rakah here is widely reported to carry the reward of an Umrah.

Mount Uhud

The battlefield and the martyrs' cemetery, 6 km north.

Masjid al-Qiblatayn

Where the qiblah changed direction from Jerusalem to Makkah.

The date markets

Ajwa, Sukkari and Mabroom. Buy at the wholesale end rather than the airport.

Questions

What is there to see in Madinah?

Masjid an-Nabawi: The Prophet's Mosque, the Rawdah and the green dome. Rawdah access requires a timed Nusuk permit. Masjid Quba: The first mosque built in Islam, 5 km south. Two rakah here is widely reported to carry the reward of an Umrah. Mount Uhud: The battlefield and the martyrs' cemetery, 6 km north.

How long should I spend in Madinah?

3-4 nights. Masjid an-Nabawi, the Rawdah permit system, and a city that moves at half Makkah's pace.