How to Make the Most of Your Time in Madinah during Umrah

Madinah, also known as the "City of the Prophet,” is a city of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and houses Masjid Al Nabawi, holding profound spiritual significance for Muslims worldwide. Being the second-holiest city in Islam, it provides Umrah pilgrims with the opportunity to enjoy its fascinating past, culture, and natural beauty in addition to strengthening their religion.

From visiting Masjid Al Nabawi, which is also known as the Prophet Mosque, the burial place of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), to standing at the foot of Mount Uhud, the location of the historic battle of Uhud, the city provides a wealth of spiritually enlightening experiences.

Below is a list of the best things to do in Madinah during Umrah to make your journey an unforgettable one.

Masjid Al Nabawi, situated in the heart of Madinah, holds immense spiritual significance as it is the final resting place of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Over the centuries, the mosque has undergone numerous expansions and enhancements under various rulers, blending historical legacy with striking modern design. Key architectural highlights include the iconic green dome, the serene Rawdah ash-Sharifah (also called the Noble Garden), two mihrabs, towering minarets, and a beautifully crafted minbar. Visitors can engage in prayer—each of which carries the reward of a thousand prayers—recite the Quran, and experience the tranquil atmosphere. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Rawdah, a revered space within the mosque believed to be a part of Paradise.

Jannat al-Baqi, the historical cemetery next to Masjid Al Nabawi, is the resting place of numerous companions of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), his close family members, and well-known Islamic leaders. The Prophet himself is believed to have chosen the place of the graveyard, and As’ad Bin Zararah (RA), the Prophet’s traveling companion, was the first to be laid to rest here.

Mount Uhud is one of the best places to visit in Madinah during Umrah, as this mountain has a significant role in Islamic history, being the very location of the Battle of Uhud. In addition to offering stunning views of Madinah, it also offers a calm setting for prayer and introspection. Many pilgrims decide to ascend the peak in remembrance of the Uhud martyrs. Furthermore, the Uhud Martyrs' Graveyard also lies nearby and serves as the final resting place for the courageous companions who participated in the war, making it a deeply moving spot for prayer and remembering.

Being the first mosque constructed by Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) after his arrival in Madinah, the Quba Mosque has great spiritual and historical importance. The Prophet used to  pray there, and visiting it is a Sunnah, allowing believers to follow in his footsteps. According to Hadith, offering two Rak'ahs of prayer here is highly rewarded. It has now been renovated to hold more than thirty thousand worshipers and features 6 domes and 4 minarets and exhibits a tasteful fusion of modern and traditional Islamic architecture.

The lavish and historic Al-Qiblatain mosque, constructed by Sawad ibn Ghanam, is a sight to behold. Famous for its twin Mihrabs and a large prayer hall, it commemorates the sacred location where the Holy Prophet Muhammad (May peace be upon him) was given the order to shift the prayer direction from Jerusalem to Makkah. This significant moment in Islamic history makes the mosque a must-visit for all pilgrims. Visitors may tour its tranquil courtyard, discover its rich history, and offer prayer in a setting steeped with spiritual meaning.

The Al Madinah Museum, the city's first and oldest museum, is a veritable gold mine of artifacts and displays highlighting Madinah's rich past and its significance in Islamic history. It offers a detailed look into the historical events that took place in the Prophet Muhammad's (PBUH) life with occasional workshops dedicated to his journey. Visitors can also view rare items and artifacts that honor the city's spiritual and cultural heritage.

Masjid Al-Ahzab is a part of the historically significant seven-mosque complex in Madinah. It holds great importance as it was the site where the Muslims of Madinah were attacked by the enemies of the Jews and the idol-worshipping Arabs during the Battle of Ahzab. The Prophet made a heartfelt du'a here, which helped him win the battle of Ahzab. Interestingly, the Quran's Al-Fatiha Surah was revealed here, earning the mosque the alternate name Masjid Al-Fatiha. Throughout the years, the mosque has undergone many stages of building and repair, demonstrating its ongoing significance.

Garden of Salman Farsi (RA) is a serene garden that holds deep historical value, as it was here that Prophet Muhammad planted about 300 dates to release Salman Farsi (RA) from slavery. Salman Farsi came from a wealthy family and was sent to Madinah as a Persian slave and was sold in the slave market before embracing Islam. Today, the garden is filled with tons of date palm trees that enhance its attractiveness. Located close to the beautiful Masjid Quba, it also features a tea store where people may sip hot tea while surrounded by nature. During Umrah, this garden remains among the most visited and most exquisite attractions in Madinah.

The Old Market in Madinah is a historic marketplace where visitors can shop for Islamic-patterned clothing, rugs, as well as a variety of Arabian goods and mementos. Located near the city's main center, it offers a lively atmosphere, especially over the weekend, when shoppers can purchase home religiously inscribed items, dinnerware, candleholders, keychains, and more.

Rounding off our list of the best things to do in Madinah is to try out the delectable local cuisine. Visit neighborhood eateries or street markets to sample regional specialties, including Mandi, Shawarma, and Kabsa, each offering authentic flavors. For an unforgettable experience, consider dining at some of Madinah's most well-known eateries such as Al Fateh Restaurant, Abu Tarboosh, Nirala Taibah Restaurant, and Tayaba. Also, don’t forget to try the city's well-known dates, which are a regional staple, and also the Sunnah of the Prophet (peace be upon him).

Heading to Medina? Book from our carefully curated selection of hotels:

7.4 Good

Aljaad Madinah Hotel

Western Central Area 99999 Medina Saudi Arabia Medina, SA

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Emaar Elite Al Madina Hotel

Northern Central Area Medina, SA

8.1 Very good

Mias Al Madina Hotel

As Salam Road Medina, SA