All praise be to Allah, who sent His blessed Messenger to make the sacred city of Taybah the place where our Prophet (ﷺ) and his companions rest.
Taybah, or Madina, does not have any activities related to Umrah; all the functions of Umrah are performed in Makkah. But how can a person go for Umrah and not visit the Prophet?
And Madina is not just a city of relics. From the blood-stained battlefields to the hallowed mosques where the Prophet ﷺ once stood, every corner of this land breathes with the spirit of Islam. The towering peaks of Uhud, the silent graves of the Sahaba, and the very dust of the ancient alleyways all stand as living witnesses to a divine history.
In this article, we are going to list what to do in Madina during Umrah.
No Activities Related to Umrah in Madina
It should be cleared up from the very beginning that the activities required to complete an Umrah have no connection to Madina. You can complete your Umrah without visiting Madina. However, Madina might be on the way when you are coming from a Miqat (the designated places where the journey of Umrah begins), so you might visit Madina while in Ihram.
The Prophet’s Mosque: First Destination in Madina
While in Madina your first destination would be to visit the white palace, Masjid nabwi and send salawats to the prophet ﷺ and his companion Abu Bakr (RA) and then Umar (RA).
Now in the mosque there are so many things you can do. Here is a list of them –
Get Close to The Prophet And Send Salawat
This is the first and most obvious part of your itinerary. This is what you are there for. First find out which gate you have to enter from. I would suggest you keep a bag with you to store your footwear. Because, you will not be wearing them and you wouldn’t want to visit the prince of the palace while holding your footwear in hand.
You will probably be in a long thick line with a lot of people. Try to understand which side of the line the Hujra is, and try to be on that side of the line because you will be the closest.
Then slowly move towards the Hujra. There are three gates and you will be closest to our beloved Prophet from the middle gate. You will see the name of the Prophet written on the left side of the middle gate and his most beloved two companions’ names written on the right side of the middle gate. Send your salawats while keeping you back to the Qibla. Keep in mind that you are in the presence of the greatest being ever created and his two companions.
The Prophet (ﷺ) said –
If any one of you greets me, Allah returns my soul to me and I respond to the greeting.
Pray in Rawdah or Riyazul Jannah
The Prophet (ﷺ) said –
Between my house and my pulpit there is a garden of the gardens of Paradise, and my pulpit is on my fountain tank
- Sahih al-Bukhari 1196
This is another must do after visiting the Hujra. But this is far more complicated to get into. Because the capacity of the area is way smaller then the amount of people eager to visit it. That’s why you have to plan it way before starting your journey. You have to take permission through the Nusuk app. Many people miss this opportunity because you can not just walk in there. You need to show your permit. So, please plan ahead for this. Read this article to understand the process.
Sitting for an Halaqat
There are teachers from all over the world teaching about islam and many other things in the Mosque. You can find one halaqat that is taught in your language and sit there to learn about a few things.
What to Do in Madina Beyond Al-Masjid an-Nabawi
There is an uncountable amount of things you can do. There are a few common things that everyone does and there are a few things that most people don’t. And it really depends on the amount of days you are staying in. Most people stay there for 7 to 15 days. And most of that time is spent in the mosque near Rasulullah.
That’s why I am only going to list the most important activities. And you can wait for another post to learn about the others. So, here we go –
Jannat al-Baqi: The Sacred Resting Place
Located directly east of Masjid al-Nabawi, Jannat al-Baqi is the oldest and most significant Islamic cemetery in Madina. It is just outside the gates of the mosque. It is the final resting place of approximately 10,000 companions (Sahaba), including the Prophet’s (ﷺ) wives, daughters, and his son Ibrahim.
Visiting is a Sunnah that serves as a powerful reminder of the afterlife. It is generally open to men after the Fajr and Asr prayers. Visitors should stand respectfully and offer supplications for the peace of the deceased.
Explore the Quba Masjid
This is the first mosque in Islam established by the Prophet ﷺ after the Hijrah. Yes, even before Masjid an-Nabwi.
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said –
Whoever purifies himself in his house, then comes to the Quba’ Mosque and offers one prayer therein, will have a reward like that for ‘Umrah.
- Sunan Ibn Majah 1412
It is historically significant as the foundation of the first Muslim community in Madina. To visit, perform your Wudu at home and offer two units of prayer upon arrival. You can reach it from Masjid al-Nabawi by walking the 3km Quba Front path or taking a 10-minute taxi.
Nearby Sites
- Masjid al-Jumu’ah: The site of the first Friday prayer.
- The Ethiq Well: A historic well where the Prophet (ﷺ) rested.
- Garden of Salman al-Farsi: A historical date palm garden.
Uhud: The Mountain that Loves Us
Mount Uhud is a massive volcanic ridge located 5km north of the Prophet’s Mosque. It served as the site for the Battle of Uhud in 3 AH, a pivotal event testing the companions’ discipline and resolve. Unlike most sites, Uhud is described as having a physical and spiritual affection for believers. When visiting, pilgrims reflect on the lessons of the battle at the Archers’ Hill (Jabal al-Rumah) and pay respects at the Martyrs’ Cemetery, where 70 companions are buried. You can reach the site via a 10-minute taxi or the 403 bus from Masjid al-Nabawi.
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said –
Uhud is a mountain which loves us and which we love.
Nearby Sites
- The Martyrs’ Cemetery: Resting place of Hamzah (RA) and other companions.
- Masjid Sayyid al-Shuhada: One of the largest mosques in Madina, built next to the battlefield.
- Archers’ Hill: The small mount where the archers were stationed during the battle.
Masjid al-Qiblatain: The Mosque of the Two Qiblas
This mosque holds immense historical value as the location where the command to change the direction of prayer occurred. During a prayer led by the Prophet ﷺ, the Qibla was shifted from Masjid al-Aqsa in Jerusalem to the Kaaba in Makkah. It stands as a symbol of obedience to Allah’s revelation. Visitors can observe the unique architecture that commemorates this event. It is located about 5km from Masjid al-Nabawi and is easily accessible by taxi or bus.
Nearby Sites
- The Seven Mosques (Saba Masajid): Located nearby, marking the sites of the Battle of the Trench.
- Wadi al-Aqiq: A blessed valley that the Prophet ﷺ frequently praised.
- Mount Uhud: A short drive further north from this location.
Saba Masajid: The Seven Mosques
The Seven Mosques represent a complex of six small, historic mosques (originally seven including Masjid al-Qiblatain) located on the edge of Mount Sela. This site marks the location of the Battle of the Trench (Ghazwat al-Khandaq), where the companions maintained defensive positions and headquarters during the siege.
Today, the large modern Masjid al-Fath serves as the central point of the site, built where the Prophet (ﷺ) prayed for victory. Visitors come here to reflect on the strategic brilliance and perseverance of the early Muslims. It is located about 3km from Masjid al-Nabawi.
Nearby Sites
- Mount Sela: The mountain that served as a natural defense during the battle.
- The Trench Site: The general area where the famous defensive trench was dug.
- Masjid al-Qiblatain: Located a short distance away, easily combined in one trip.
Masjid al-Ghamama: The Mosque of the Clouds
Situated a short walk from the southwestern gates of Masjid al-Nabawi, this mosque marks the historic site where the Prophet ﷺ performed Eid prayers and the prayer for rain (Istisqa). It is famously named “The Clouds” because, according to tradition, clouds would often gather to provide shade for the Prophet ﷺ while he prayed at this location. Although it is no longer used for daily congregational prayers due to its proximity to the Prophet’s Mosque, you can find it open sometimes.
The Battlefield of Badr
Located about 150km southwest of Madinah, this site marks the first and most significant battle in Islamic history. In 2 AH, a small, ill-equipped Muslim army of 313 men defeated a much larger Quraysh force, establishing Islam’s survival and strength. Visitors can see the Martyrs’ Cemetery, which holds the graves of the 14 companions who fell in the battle. The area serves as a profound reminder of divine intervention and the victory of faith over numbers.
Nearby Sites
- Al-Arish Mosque: Built on the spot where the Prophet’s ﷺ command tent was located.
- The Well of Badr: The historic area where the central water sources were contested.
- Mount Malaikah: The dunes from which tradition states the angels descended to help the believers.
Some Other Activities in Madina
We all should understand that we visit Madina out of love for the Rasul ﷺ and for the city that sheltered him. So, we should spend most of our time in the Masjid an-Nabwi.
However, there are many other things and places you can visit and experience during your stay. But please do not make it like any other tour. Keep the honor of the city.
Here are some other places you can visit –
Wadi al-Jinn: The Valley of Al-Baida
Located about 30km northwest of Madinah, this valley is famous for a natural phenomenon where unbraked cars appear to roll uphill. While local legends attribute this to the presence of Jinn, it is scientifically recognized as an optical illusion known as a “gravity hill,” where the surrounding landscape makes a slight downhill slope look like an incline. Despite the lack of specific religious rituals tied to the site, many visitors frequent the area for its unique desert scenery and to experience the unusual gravitational effect.
Hegra: The City of Salih
Located in the AlUla region, this UNESCO World Heritage site is known as Al-Hijr in the Quran. It was the homeland of the people of Thamud, who were famous for carving grand dwellings directly into the sandstone mountains. Prophet Salih (as) was sent to guide them, but they rejected his message and killed the miraculous she-camel sent as a sign. Consequently, they were destroyed by a divine blast. Today, the site features over 110 remarkably preserved Nabataean tombs, reflecting both ancient craftsmanship and a solemn reminder of past nations.
Historical Museums of Madinah
Madinah’s museums offer a profound look into Islamic history and the Prophet’s ﷺ life. The International Fair and Museum of the Prophet’s Biography features interactive displays and 3D models of the Prophetic era. The Dar Al Madinah Museum showcases over 2,000 artifacts, including rare manuscripts and archaeological finds from the city’s early Islamic period. These institutions house detailed scale models of the original Masjid al-Nabawi and the Prophet’s ﷺ household, allowing visitors to visualize the foundation of the first Muslim community and its urban development throughout history.
Yanbu Beach
Located on the Red Sea coast, Yanbu features pristine white sands and turquoise waters. It is a premier destination for diving and snorkeling, renowned for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. The area offers scenic walkways and parks, providing a perfect coastal retreat.
Madinah Date Market
This bustling market is the city’s hub for high-quality dates, featuring over 150 varieties. Visitors can purchase the famous Ajwa date, alongside other popular types like Saffawi and Sukkari. It is the best place to experience local trade and buy authentic Madinah produce directly from farms.
Cultural Shopping
Old Bazaar & Quba Souq Experience authentic Madinah by wandering through the Old Bazaar and the Quba pedestrian path. These markets are the heart of native trade, offering traditional Saudi attire, hand-stitched prayer rugs, and locally blended oud and musk. Unlike modern malls, these souqs allow you to witness the city’s historic commerce and find unique, handcrafted mementos that reflect the deep-rooted heritage of the Hijaz region.
Native Eateries
Traditional Mandi & Quba Street Food. For a true taste of local culture, visit traditional Mandi houses like Al-Romansiah to enjoy communal spiced rice and meat dishes. Explore the stalls along Quba Road for authentic street food like Mutabbaq (stuffed pancakes) and Balila. Don’t miss the Chefs Market near the Haram to sample Shorbat Hub and fresh Madini bread, showcasing the unique flavors and hospitality of Madinah’s residents.