Visiting the Prophet’s Mosque

Visiting the Rawdah: Permits and Etiquette

The Rawdah is the area of the Prophet’s Mosque between his house and his pulpit. Entry is managed by permit, and the arrangements change, so treat the practical notes below as a starting point and confirm them in the Nusuk app before your visit.

What is the Rawdah?

The Prophet ﷺ said: “Between my house and my pulpit is a garden of the gardens of Paradise” (Sahih al-Bukhari 1196). That area of the mosque, marked today by its distinctive carpet and pillars, is known as al-Rawdah al-Sharifah.

The permit

Entry to the Rawdah requires a free permit booked through the official Nusuk app. Slots are limited and are often taken quickly, so many visitors book before they arrive in Madinah.

Men and women visit at separate times and through separate entrances. Your permit shows your time and entrance; arrive a little early and follow the directions of the mosque staff.

Etiquette

Enter calmly and keep your voice low. Pray two rak‘ahs if you are able, make du‘a, and keep your visit short so that others can have their turn. Photography is not appropriate inside the Rawdah; follow the instructions of the staff.

Many visitors then walk past the Prophet’s ﷺ resting place to send salam upon him and upon his two companions, Abu Bakr and ‘Umar.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a permit to visit the Rawdah?

Yes. Entry to the Rawdah is by a free permit booked in the official Nusuk app. Arrangements change, so confirm the current rules in the app.

Can men and women visit at the same time?

No. Men and women have separate time slots and entrances, shown on the permit.

Sources

  1. Sahih al-Bukhari 1196: “Between my house and my pulpit is a garden of the gardens of Paradise”
  2. Nusuk (official platform): Rawdah permits and current visiting rules
  3. Wego: Rawdah permit guide 2026: Practical summary of the booking process (non-official)
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