AL OMAR HAJJ AND UMRAH SERVICES

Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah Ziyarah

This document provides a guide to performing Ziyarah (visitation) in Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah, the second holiest city in Islam. It outlines the significance of visiting the city, the etiquette to observe, and the important sites to visit, including the Prophet's Mosque (Masjid an-Nabawi), the Rawdah ash-Sharifah, and other historical locations. This guide aims to help pilgrims maximize their spiritual experience and gain a deeper connection with the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and the rich history of Islam.

Significance of Visiting in Al-Madinah

• Visiting Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah holds immense significance for Muslims. It is the city that welcomed the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and his companions after their migration (Hijrah) from Makkah. Al-Madinah became the center from which Islam spread, and it is the final resting place of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
• The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) himself emphasized the importance of visiting his mosque in Al-Madinah. He said: "A prayer in my mosque is better than a thousand prayers in any other mosque except al-Masjid al-Haram (in Makkah)."
• Hadith Reference :  ( Sahih al-Bukhari 649 and Sahih Muslim 1394a ).
• This profound hadith emphasizes the unparalleled spiritual significance and reward of performing prayers in Makkah, encouraging Muslims to visit and offer their worship in this holy city during their Ziyarah (visitation).
• Visiting Al-Madinah allows Muslims to:
• Express love and respect for Our Prophet Mohammed صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ : It is a way to show devotion and gratitude to the Prophet for his teachings and sacrifices. 
• Gain spiritual blessings: Praying in Masjid an-Nabawi and visiting the Rawdah ash-Sharifah are considered acts of great virtue. 
• Connect with Islamic history: Al-Madinah is filled with historical sites that bear witness to the early days of Islam. 
• Reflect and rejuvenate: The peaceful atmosphere of Al-Madinah provides an opportunity for reflection and spiritual renewal.  

Important Sites for Ziyarah

• Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah is home to numerous historical and religious sites. Some of the most important places to visit include:
• Masjid an-Nabawi (The Prophet's Mosque) –
• The Prophet's Mosque is the heart of Al-Madinah and the second holiest mosque in Islam. It was originally built by our Our Prophet Mohammed صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ and has been expanded and renovated throughout history. Key features of the mosque include
• The Green Dome –
• Located above the Prophet's tomb, it is a prominent landmark of Al-Madinah.
• Rawdah ash-Sharifah (The Noble Garden) –
• This area, located between the Prophet's tomb and his pulpit (Minbar), is considered one of the most sacred spots in the mosque. It is believed to be a part of Paradise. Praying in Ar-Rawdah is highly recommended, but access is often limited due to the large number of visitors. Men are typically given priority access, and specific times are allocated for women.
• The Mihrab an-Nabawi –
• The niche in the wall that indicates the direction of the Qibla (direction of prayer).
• The Minbar (Pulpit) –
• The Minbar is where the Prophet (peace be upon him) used to deliver his sermons. The current Minbar is a replacement of the original, but it holds historical and spiritual significance.
• The Pillars –
• Several pillars within the mosque are associated with specific events in the Prophet's life. These include the Pillar of Repentance (Ustuwanat al-Tawbah) and the Pillar of Aisha (Ustuwanat Aisha).
• Jannat al-Baqi' (The Garden of Baqi') –
• Several pillars within the mosque are associated with specific events in the Prophet's life. These include the Pillar of Repentance (Ustuwanat al-Tawbah) and the Pillar of Aisha (Ustuwanat Aisha).
• Etiquette of Visiting Al-Madinah –
• Observing proper etiquette is essential when visiting Al-Madinah, demonstrating respect for the sanctity of the city and Our Prophet Mohammed صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ . Some important points of etiquette include:
• Entering with humility and reverence: Approach Al-Madinah with a sense of humility and respect. 
• Maintaining cleanliness: Keep the city and the mosque clean. 
• Lowering your voice: Avoid loud talking or unnecessary noise, especially within the mosque.
• Avoiding worldly distractions: Focus on prayer, remembrance of Allah, and reflection.
• Respecting other visitors: Be considerate of other pilgrims and avoid causing them any inconvenience.  
• Dressing modestly: Wear appropriate attire that covers the body modestly. 
• Seeking permission before entering the Rawdah: Access to the Rawdah is often regulated, so follow the instructions of the authorities. 
• Avoiding pushing and shoving: Maintain order and avoid pushing or shoving, especially when visiting popular sites. 
• Making sincere supplications: Use the opportunity to make heartfelt prayers and supplications to Allah. 
• Sending blessings upon the Prophet (peace be upon him): Recite blessings (Salawat) upon the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) frequently. 
• Preparing for Ziyarah –
• Before embarking on the Ziyarah, it is important to prepare both physically and spiritually. This includes:
• Learning about the rituals and sites: Familiarize yourself with the rituals of Umrah and the history and significance of the sites you plan to visit. Please checkout our website, we provide complete umrah guide
• Packing appropriately: Pack comfortable and modest clothing, as well as any necessary medications.
• Making intentions: Make a sincere intention to perform the Ziyarah for the sake of Allah and to seek His pleasure.
• Repenting for sins: Seek forgiveness for any sins you may have committed and resolve to live a better life.
• Learning basic Arabic phrases: Knowing some basic Arabic phrases can be helpful for communication.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially when visiting outdoor sites during hot weather.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and climbing.
• Conclusion
• By following this guide and approaching your Ziyarah with sincerity and devotion, you can have a truly transformative and spiritually enriching experience in the blessed city of Madinah. May Allah accept your Ziyarah and grant you His blessings.