Umrah & Ziyarah

• For transporting your luggage, you can buy a trolley.
• Some trolley attendants are available to charge a fee to load and unload your luggage.
• Along with the relevant airport authorities, Hajj missions plan pilgrims' departure from the airport, arrange transfer to the bus stop, and transfer luggage.

To get through customs at the airport without hassle, mention the following in the appropriate form of declaration:

• Commercial gifts worth more than SAR 3,000
• Sum exceeding SAR 60,000

It is, however, noble to declare that King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah offers its dignified services for the pilgrims' smooth entrance and departure throughout the Hajj and Umrah Seasons.

If you happen to travel alone to Makkah for Umrah or hire a vehicle on your way to Makkah:

• Bear this in mind: Driving in Makkah neighborhoods during the Hajj season and the last ten days of Ramadan is not allowed.
• You must park the vehicle in one of the parking lots round about the Holy Capital.

Makkah car parking includes:

• Az-Zaher parking
• Keddi parking
• Al-Jamarat parking
• Ar-Rusaifah parking
• Duqm Al-Waber car parking
• Prince Mit'ib Rd. parking (refinery tunnels)
• Parking lot at the Al-Haramain high express railway station.

At these locations, appropriate buses may transport pilgrims on Hajj and Umrah directly to the Grand Mosque.

Prior to starting out, make sure to:

• Check fluids and, if necessary, get them changed.
• Check the condition of tires, brakes, and lights.
• Carry with you an extra wheel.
• Refresh yourself with enough sleep both before and during the trip.

Land-based travel is permissible for Umrah pilgrim guests from nations neighboring the Kingdom, provided they use their own vehicles or rent one to enter land ports.

• They can also enter land ports using vehicles that would only be licensed if an external agent undertakes the entry arrangements for the vehicle.

Buses exist in Makkah for pilgrims and residents to provide services during their journey to performing Hajj or Umrah.

• Once they get the permission to conduct Umrah, they can drive themselves to Makkah. However, private vehicles are prohibited from entering Makkah in the last 10 days of Ramadan and immediately before the Hajj season unless they have a valid entry permit.

Seven parking areas on the boundaries of Makkah can accommodate 50,000 cars carrying pilgrims.

In Makkah, the Holy Capital, there are large parking lots where vehicles have to be left. In turn, the pilgrims going for Hajj and Umrah are shuttled from these parking areas to the Grand Mosque through the bus services.

The train connects Makkah, Madina, and the Jeddah Airport for the use of pilgrims on the Hajj and Umrah.

• The Haramain Express supplies service in a cozy, safe, and speedy manner.
• The train offers seats in two classes of accommodation, that is, business and economy.
• The train has a cafeteria on board with food and drinks available for the passengers attending their journey.

Stations of the Haramain Express

• The Jeddah Airport Station is located in King Abdulaziz Airport.
• The Makkah Railway Station is located 3.5 kilometers away from the Grand Mosque. Bus service is offered between the two.
• The Madina Railway Station is situated 9 km from the Prophet's Mosque. Buses carry passengers between the two Stations.

How do I get a ticket on Haramain Express?

Tickets for Haramain Express can be purchased in the following ways:

• Online by using the Haramain Service apps or website
• Through ticket counters at the train station
• Or through telephone, contacting Haramain Express unified number 920004433.

Upon arrival at an airport in Saudi Arabia:

• Must make a declaration in the prescribed form:

  • Amounts exceeding 60,000 riyals or equivalent.
  • Gifts exceeding 3,000 riyals in quantity for commercial purposes.
  • Do not bring any items that are prohibited. Please refer to the list of prohibited and restricted items as provided by Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority website.

• Before your flight, confirm baggage requirements with the airline and airport to make sure that nothing goes wrong. Find a way to secure pack and close your luggage carefully so that it does not incur down any damage during the flight.

When they hajj and umrah, the pilgrims must take complete responsibility for their luggage or any other people's belongings at the airports.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in general and the Grand Mosques in particular provide their pilgrims and tourists almost every necessity and luxury at a wonderful cost.

Only take what you will find to be useful. Leave aside heavy baggage and burdens.

Do not forget to bring

• Your passport, immunization records, and any required permits are your primary official documents.
• A prescription for special prescriptions, a report of your health status if you have a particular ailment, and an adequate amount of your medications that you will require while traveling
• A wallet with the cash and credit and debit cards you'll need for your trip
• The clothing you'll need once you've finished your ihram
• Good shoes for walking a long distance.
• Ihram clothing.
• A cell phone with a three-slot charger according to the Arab Gulf standards (available at the airport or from shops on arrival) and headphones if you wear one.
• Some set of the Quran or a book you'd be interested in reading while traveling.

Please do not take any of the following things:

• Food and drinks that are not going to last for long periods and need special handling and transportation.
• Any items that go against Islamic tradition, including gambling cards, lottery equipment, and alcohol.
• Ayurvedic medicines, herbal medicines, cosmetics and nutritional supplements, and non-manufactured chemicals with ingredients not written in English.
• Electronic cigarettes, liquid nicotine, and e-liquids with all their respective accessories.
• Anything legally banned from international travel, such as combustible materials, weapons (including toy or imitation plastic weapons), and illicit narcotics.

Reflections

Do well to verify those specifications and dimensions accepted by each airport and airline about baggage and sizes for cartons. Also, have your luggage properly covered and fastened for a secure arrival.

Whatever being on Ihram level is on par with another person, there is other equal dress code and other way of looking. Material possessions and color do not matter in the least. Completing the whole said process humbly before Allah and beseeching Him for help and only Him by wearing the Ihram.

Ihram is the initiation of the Hajj and Umrah rites. The first ceremonies commencing with Talbiyah, the intention of initiating Umrah or Hajj. It remains the core of the entire Hajj and Umrah.

He can, at the time of putting on Ihram for either Hajj or Umrah, declare any situation or reason which will not allow him to complete his rituals.

Ihram is a sincere act and the first step towards another noble act of worship. Allah marked out a way for us, for there are many transgressors among us; He instructed us to be sincere in our intentions and that all rites be performed in the best way possible for His glory. "Perform Hajj and Umrah for Allah," said Almighty God.

What exactly is Ihram?

• Wearing of Ihram signifies an intention to enter into a particular state that will culminate in Hajj or Umrah, depending on the nature of ritual being performed. The first of the rites of Hajj and Umrah, Talbiyah, is said out loud with the intention of performing Umrah or Hajj.
• It is an act of the heart where deep worship is engaged in, being the first step along this spiritual path. It is the greatest act of worship, which has been made obligatory for us by Allah, to carry out sincerely for His sake and in its best possible manner, as He said: {Perform Hajj and Umrah for (the sake of) Allah}.
• Therefore, activities that were permissible upon leaving into a state of Ihram are no longer allowed, including sexual intercourse, shaving, cutting the nails, putting on a head cover, and getting dressed in men's clothes.
• In order to engage in the act of performing Umrah, you must refrain from any violations of the Ihram and say "Labbayka Umrah" before doing so. Then you start reciting Talbiyah. If it is your intention to perform the Hajj ceremonies, the first thing you must always say is "Labbayka Hajjan" Then you start reciting Talbiyah.

"Labbayka Hajjan" is the first thing you should say if you plan to begin doing the Hajj ceremonies. You then start reciting Talbiyah.

Explain the condition to be met in Ihram.

As Allah, the Almighty, has said: "Allah intends for you to have ease and does not intend to make things difficult for you." Islam is the practice in which everything is within the reach or competency of a practitioner. The way all other circumstances that may hinder a Muslim from performing Hajj or Umrah rituals can be considered a facilitation of worship is one of the many ways in which such an attitude manifests explicitly.

It is legitimate to stipulate a condition in the Ihram provided the pilgrim fears that for any reason he will become prevented from performing the Hajj or Umrah.

How do you specify?

Further, there are the exceptions offered for the pilgrim making the Hajj or Umrah if he or she thinks that the rituals cannot be completed due to a medical condition, valid excuse, or some unprocurable hindrance:

• "If You deter me for any reason, that is where I am to stop," said immediately after reciting "Labbayka Umrah" or "Labbayka Hajjan," in any language.
• A pilgrim who announces this and justifies a condition must stop performing the Hajj rites that stop them from performing their pilgrimage, but they incur no new obligations when they leave the state of Ihram.

Who has the right to set conditions to fulfill duties?

• A woman with reasonable fears of failing to perform her required rituals owing to compelling reasons.
• A sick man who fears he might fail to offer his required rituals.

Guidelines for individuals in Ihram

Now that you have entered with your goal and Talbiyah, you are engaging in profound worship. Here are some crucial suggestions:

• Honour the rites, commands, and prohibitions of Allah, and treat that deed with respect and awe. "And whosoever honours the rites of Allah, it surely is based on piety of the heart," says the Almighty.
• Steer clear of any conduct that would invalidate or desecrate your Ihram, such as fighting, yelling, or inflicting any injury or engaging in any type of dispute with any person. The Almighty says that those who plan on attending Hajj should avoid sexual relations with their spouses, engaging in any sins, and fighting while performing the Hajj.
• Recite Talbiyah as often as you can generally, for it is a very special supplication and remembrance. The chain of Talbiyah is not a requirement for every circumstance. In fact, "Every Muslim who recites Talbiyah, do nothing but perform it, and every Muslim within sight repeats Talbiyah: it is the rocks, the trees, and the hills that do it, and to the very ends of the earth in every direction, from here and from there," says the Prophet, upon whom be peace.
• The staff on duty and security personnel are anxious to help protect your and your fellow pilgrims' interests; therefore, heed their instructions.
• Learn the Hajj and/or Umrah regulations.
• When you are outside during the day, shield yourself from the sun by using a parasol.

Examples of obstacles that could keep you from carrying out your Umrah or Hajj ceremonies:

• Illness
• The menstrual cycle
• Emergencies

• All the pilgrims going to Makkah for either Hajj or Umrah must wear their Ihram from the given Miqat.
• People traveling to Jeddah have to don their Ihram as soon as their flight aligns with the Miqat.
• Traditionally, an announcement is made for the passengers on board to prepare themselves for the plane's approach and alignment with the Miqat soon after it nearly arrives. The announcement after the alignment serves to notify passengers that a Miqat is approaching.
• To reduce congestion in the airflow restrooms, anyone intending to perform Umrah should really prepare in his Ihram, removing anything prohibited in Ihram before the announcement is made that the aircraft is aligning for the Miqat.
• When aligning himself with the Miqat, he refers to the Hajj or Umrah as he is about to start reciting Talbiyah. Before doing that, he must say, "Labbayka Hajjan" or "Labbayka Umrah".
• He must be awake and careful to plan to enter his Ihram just before the Miqat. If he is afraid he might fall asleep, he should wear his Ihram before reaching the Miqat.
• He could also wear the Ihram 30 minutes prior to their arrival, to be on the safe side, should he believe or was told that the flight crew will not inform them of reaching the Miqat point.

You must plan to enter Ihram for the Hajj or Umrah and state loudly which kind of ritual you want to do when the flight crew announces alignment with the Miqat. "Allaahumma Labbayka Hajjan" instead of "Allaahumma Labbayka Umratan".

As a precautionary measure, you may, before aligning with the Miqat, enter the state of Ihram onboard:

• If you worry that you'll nod off or forget.
• If you think the flight crew won't declare their connection with the Miqat.

The phrase "Labbayk Allaahumma Labbayk, Labbayka Laa Shareeka Laka Labbayk" is repeated in Talbiyah. "Here, O Allah, here I am; surely, I can serve you; certainly, you have no partner with you in this calling." "Innal Hamda Wan-ni'matah Laka Wal-Mulk, Laa Shareeka Lak" Serving You! No partner is assumed! Here now, indeed! All glory and all honor and all grace belong unto Yourself! You shall not have a partner.

Thus, the Muslim signifies at the commencement of his Hajj and Umrah that he has come to carry out the rite as per and in response to the command of Allah Almighty. While a Muslim does this in every act of worship, he states and repeats it during the Hajj and Umrah to ingrain these profound meanings in himself.

Does Talbiyah summarize everything she intends by these words?

This means: We have come, O Allah, in response to Your calls, recognizing You in devotion and monotheism and invoking Your favor for the magnificence of Your omnipotence.

The pilgrims' magnificent slogan is Talbiyah. It proclaims submission and obedience to the Bountiful Giver and the Creator. Praise be to Him.

Muttering and uttering Talbiyah aloud:

• In pronouncing Talbiyah, it is Sunnah for men to raise their voices. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: "Jibreel came to me and instructed me to send a message to my Companions to raise their voices in Talbiyah."
• While a female is advised to recite Talbiyah quietly.

When does Talbiyah begin? When does it finish?

The initiation of Talbiyah

The Talbiyah starts when Ihram is assumed. The person intending to perform Hajj or 'Umrah should recite them when he enters his Ihram.

• He is planning to do just only the Hajj, or the Umrah, or else both.
• He will say Labbaik Hajjan, Labbaik Umrah, or even Labbaik Hajjan Wa-Umrah. This is upon entering or crossing into state of Ihram.
• He is expected to loudly pronounce the following Talbiyah: "Labbayk Laa Shareeka Laka Labbayk, Labbayk Allaahumma Labbayk." No one shares in the worship with you. My Lord, the highest authority and all honor belongs to you, and you have no partner. At your service, O Allah, I am right here! Serving You! Very well! You don't have a partner! Indeed, the highest authority and all honor are yours. You don't have a partner!

Talbiyah's conclusion

• Talbiyah concludes in Umrah when you visit the House or start Tawaf.
• When you stone Jamrat Al Aqabah on the Hajj, Talbiyah is over.

Intertrigo and the folds of the body rash are common in pilgrims during Hajj and Umrah, especially those who are overweight or diabetic. Lack of undergarments and friction contribute to the infection of the skin. Rashes occur in the folds where two layers of skin meet, such as:

• The groin
• Underarms
• Beneath the breasts

This can occasionally be accompanied by excruciating itching.

Preventive Measures

• Practice good hygiene.
• Ensure good airflow in the folds of body regions such as the armpit and thighs.
• Be sure to put on lotions before you go out for a walk.
• Before medications such as healing ointments are used on the infected area, the area should be thoroughly washed.

Precautions

• Clean garments will help prevent skin irritations and other medical problems.
• Diabetics should know that crowding, excessive perspiration, and abnormal blood glucose levels can contribute to an increase in the peeling of their skin.

Why were certain websites distributed on the entry of Ihram?

The Messenger of Allah (may Allah give him blessings and grant him peace) had fixed various specified places of Miqats for putting on Ihram, and there the pilgrims would recite the Talbiyah, bearing respect for the Honored House of Allah and the rites of Hajj and Umrah.

"These Miqats are for the people at those very places and those who come through those places with the intention of performing Hajj and Umrah," the Prophet (blessings and peace be upon him) stated after describing the precise locations of these sites.

Depending on your departure point, these locations may be some miles closer or farther from the Grand Mosque.

Pilgrims coming from other places than the Miqats must put on ihram at these Miqats or at parallel points when traveling by air or land. They will not pass beyond these limits without entering into the state of Ihram.

Determining the proper Miqat

Place of congregation of people present in Makkah:

• In the nearest place outside of the Haram area, as Masjid Aisha at Al Taneem is considered, they enter into the state of ihram for Umrah, while for the Hajj, pilgrims must put on ihrams right there.

This applies to those who have a temporary residence somewhere between the Miqats and Makkah:

• For individuals who live in Jeddah or Bahrah, they can enter the state of Ihram for the Hajj or Umrah from where they are.

Others located outside of the Miqat:

• In relation to the Hajj or Umrah, they will enter into the Ihram state from a parallel location or one of the five Miqat points.

Regardless of the mode of transport—by airplane or motorcar—the pilgrim or guest dwelling at a far distance from Makkah enters the state of ihram at one of the five Miqat points or a parallel location on the route. Pilgrims will not pass the Miqat except in the state of ihram.

Miqat for Ihram

A person who intends to perform Hajj or Umrah must enter their Ihram from a Miqat. It is absolutely forbidden for a traveler intending to offer either Hajj or Umrah to leave one of these Miqats without wearing an Ihram. They are:

• Dhul-Hulaifa is the Miqat for the people of Madinah, 420 km from Makkah.
• Al-Juhfah The Miqat for the people coming from ash-Sham and those en route is al-Juhfah, 187 km from Makkah. Nowadays, the Hajj pilgrims enter the Ihram at Rabigh, which is situated 204 km from Makkah.
• Qarn Al-Manazil is the Miqat for the residents of Najd and those en route. Makkah is 94 km away.
• Yalamlam, which is Miqat for Yemenis and other people traveling to Yemen, lies at a distance of 115 kilometers from Makkah.
• Dhat Irq The Miqat for the people of Iraq and others on their way is Dhat Irq, which is 92 kilometers from Makkah.

Certain activities precede the intention of entering into the state of Ihram, like:

Ablution (Wudoo) or taking a full bath (Ghusl).

• It is suggested that the pilgrims perform ablution (Wudoo) or take a bath (Ghusl) prior to their putting on Ihram. In certain situations, this is Sunnah for male and female alike but not obligatory as Ghusl. A bath may instead be substituted with regular ablution (Wudoo) in case someone is unable to take Ghusl.

Home bathing

• If in special cases a person cannot perform a full body wash (Ghusl) at the miqat, like in the case of someone traveling by a plane, it may be done at home for Ihram purposes, provided that the plane is parallel with the miqat.
• While it is highly recommended, it is not actually obligatory for the validity of your Ihram that you maintain ritual purity.
• People may trim nails, shave armpit hairs, and carry out other hygiene procedures at all times; however, they are especially recommended before assuming the Ihram, as it is prohibited for one in an Ihram to carry out any grooming or basic hygienic practices.

Entering into Ihram after offering one's prayers

• To wear Ihram after prayer has been the traditional practice throughout ages. One must perform obligatory prayers first if the time for prayer approaches, followed by the Ihram. Otherwise, a pilgrim may bathe their hands and then offer two units of voluntary prayer before entering their Ihram and reciting Talbiyah.

Upon my arrival at the Aqiq (valley), a messenger from my Lord came to me and said, "Offer prayers in this blessed valley and say: coupling Umrah and al-Hajj," according to what the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) said.

Hajj and Umrah are such great occasions that even wealthy individuals will readily give up their worldly possessions and status. Dressing alike gives the opportunity for them to see themselves as equal in all respects. One's caste or net worth is diluted among Muslims, divided in places and in front of Allah and always singing His praises, who has of course made them equal. For He alone is in need-the rich and all His creatures.

What attire is appropriate when entering the Ihram?

A pilgrim is required to remove his typical clothing, which includes:

• Headdresses, including turbans and caps.
• The standard, stitched apparel, including gloves, socks, shirts, and pants.
• Shoes that cover the entire ankle and foot.
• He dresses the lower half of the body with one garment and the upper half with another.
• It should be white.
• He has to wear sandals that are decent and thus leave part of the foot uncovered.

While in Ihram, an article set that a male is allowed to wear is either:

• A belt or buckle that he wears at the waist to keep his Izaar (lower garment) from slipping and which he uses to put the phone, money, and other valuables in.
• Watches and rings.
• Bandages and plasters for wounds.
• All head coverings that do not come into contact with the head, including umbrellas.

How should the Ihram be worn?

The Ihram garment consists of a waist cloth covering the lower part of a man's body and another piece appropriate for covering the upper part. They are mainly clothing from older times, though preferably for the tourists in some Muslim regions. However, some people find it very difficult to wear them in a way that assures:

• Enough clothing to cover the body.
• Comfort and roominess to move around.
• Good fastening so it does not sag or hang.

The two greatest acts of worship for both men and women are the pilgrimage of Hajj and Umrah. "You (woman) should bear jihad when there is no fighting: Hajj and Umrah," said Allah's Prophet, temperance and peace be upon him.

When the woman enters the Ihram, she may wear anything which is in accordance with her preferences. She may use any colors while entering this state of Ihram, provided she does:

• Cover the body loosely and does not restrain movement.
• Is not bedecked in obvious ornamentation or finery, which may attract men.

Women Cannot Wear an Ihram

Among other things, a woman in Ihram:

• Does not wear a niqab or cover her face, except in front of non-mahram men.
• Never wears any gloves.

During Ihram, the following are not forbidden:

• Donning watches, rings, and glasses.
• Bandages and plasters for wounds.
• When a lady is afraid of temptation, she covers her face.

The following are not prohibited during Ihram:

• Wearing watches, rings, or glasses.
• Bandages or adhesive bandages on wounds.
• The veil used by a woman to cover her face when she fears temptation.

Keep in mind:

On hot summer days, women should wear simple, wide, and covering garments of soft cloth.

The exaltation of the needs of a creature towards the Creator and the Master has made them great and permitted for men while restricted for worship in Ihram.

Some of these restrictions apply to both men and women, while some will barely affect either of the genders.

Basic prohibitions on the wearing of Ihrams by men and women:

• Sexual activity is prohibited for both men and women.
• Finalizing a contract for marriage.
• The game of killing.
• Cutting one's nails or shaving the head.
• Donning fragrance.

Prohibitions for Men Only:

• Wearing a cap or turban or anything else that comes into direct contact with the head.
• Donning the typical stitched attire, including shirts, pants, socks, underwear, gloves, and shoes that cover the entire foot up to the ankles.

Restrictions Exclusive to Women:

• Wearing the niqab, or face-covering in the presence of male non-mahrams, is permitted out of fear of confusion and harassment.
• Use of gloves.

Activities allowed during Ihram:

• Taking a bath.
• Wearing watch, ring, and glasses.
• Putting on a bandage or plaster on a wound.
• Carrying a wallet or belt around one's body.
• Having an umbrella in case of rain or sun.
• Wearing footwear that does not cover the toe.
• Women may wear face veils for modesty when they feel temptation.

• Parents can take their kids to pray at the Grand Mosque in Makkah, regardless of how young or how old.
• When applying for Umrah permits for children older than five, parents need to use the zuljannah website.
• They should ensure that a bracelet or card containing their child's name and parent's phone number is strapped around the child's hand.
• At all costs, they should not allow for separation between themselves and their child. They should also keep a tight grasp on their child's hand in case of crowding.
• In addition, parents should try as best as is possible to keep their children calm and quiet so as not to disturb the other worshippers.

Center for Drifters Care

The lost children in the Grand Mosque were surrendered to, and subsequently united with, their families at the Drifters Care Center. The center is overseen by the Grand Mosque of Makkah security team.

Keep your children away from crowds in the Haram for their safety and purpose.

Public transport in the country can be exploited upon obtaining a ticket. These air-conditioned buses for Umrah pilgrims are quite affordable.

Each Hajj mission offers the bus services for carrying pilgrims from King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah to Makkah during the Hajj season.

Together with the airport authorities and respective Hajj missions, arrangements for departure for the pilgrims are made through the airport for the bus stop for the passengers, boarding the buses, and moving the luggage out of the airport.

Hajj and Umrah pilgrims are allowed to bring and use electrically powered or manually operated wheelchairs inside the Grand Mosque in Makkah through the wheelchair gates.

There are also pushing services available at the Grand Mosque.

• Hand-operated or electrically powered wheelchairs.

Those undertaking the pilgrimage will feel depleted in fluid due to sweating, a cause of sunstroke.

How do I avoid sunlight-induced snowing?

• Increase hydration through fluids to minimize fluid loss.
• Avoid unnecessary exposure to the sun's heat.
• When outdoors during the daytime, avoid direct sunlight and take along a light-colored umbrella.
• Except for the permitted areas your pilgrim shall expose, cover your body.
• Sleep as much as possible at night; do not stay up late. Less sleep means a weakened immune system and increased stress levels.

What should I do since someone has a sunstroke?

• Inform a campaign official or a nearby security guard regarding the issue.
• Summon an ambulance without delay.

There are many gateways leading into the courtyard of the Grand Mosque. Each gateway has a number.

The light panel above each gate alerts one entry- or exit-wise, which can be read from a distance.

The five main gates of the Grand Mosque:

• Gate King Abdulaziz-I, located on the Western Square
• Gate Bab Safa-11, being close to the Sa'i walkway (Masaa)
• Gate Bab Al Fatah, positioned on the north square
• Gate Bab Umrah-the North Square, No. 62
• Gate King Fahd the Western, No. 79

Each season, different gates are assigned to Umrah pilgrims, which are used to control their access to the Haram.

They are not the same as those used by visitors to enter the Grand Mosque in Makkah.

Inquire about Umrah gates from the security staff if you are undertaking Umrah.

There are plenty of taxis servicing the Grand Mosque of Makkah outside the airport.

Private taxis are also available in the taxi rental offices in the airport arrival lounge.

The following things are forbidden in the Grand Mosque:

• Any food and drink, besides water, coffee, and dates
• All weapons and sharp objects
• Any liquid which can be incendiary
• Any big luggage or bag
• Strollers or Baby Buggies
• It is advised that pilgrimage travelers not leave any of their belongings or bags unattended at the gates.

People could keep their belongings in the safe boxes outside the courtyards of the Haram.

The following spaces are mentioned as located in the circumambulation building:

• The circumambulation courtyard
• Ground Floor
• First Floor
• Mezz-floor for first-floor wheelchair access
• The roof

The circumambulation building capacity:

• The circumambulation courtyard will be able to hold 30,000 circumambulators on an hourly basis.
• The total capacity of this structure is 107,000.

Access on every floor is gained along the prescribed routes laid down by the guards whose instruction should be adhered to by the pilgrims during Hajj and Umrah.

The Sunnah of a male wearing the Ihram garment during Tawaf is called Idtibaa.

• After the example of the Prophet (blessings and peace be upon him), it is Sunnah for a man to expose his right shoulder while performing Umrah circumambulation.
• When the Quraish said about Allah's Messenger and his companions, "A people who have been weakened by illness will come to you," it became true. Now Allah's Messenger (blessings and peace be upon him) with his companions intended to show his might and strength.
• Then, the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) and his companions continued doing so. Muslims ought to imitate the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) in turning towards their Lord with zeal and strength.
• Idtibaa is not required for Tawaf Al Ifaadah, nor the final tawaf for a non-Muhrim, but is compulsory for the Umrah and the Tawaf Al Qudoom.

Ramal (to walk quickly around the Kaaba).

The Apostle of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) briskly walked around the Kaaba in Tawaf, and it is a Sunnah.

In accordance with the Sunnah of the Messenger of Allah (blessings and peace be upon him), a man is required, whenever possible, to walk fast by taking small steps in the first three rounds of Tawaf, while the remainder of his Tawaf shall be performed more moderately.

• Walking quickly in small steps is different from jogging.
• This Sunnah is meant only for men.
• In principle, Ar-Ramal, the brisk walking, is prescribed for the 'Umrah circumambulation and the arrival circumambulation (Tawaf Al Qudoom); only it is not prescribed for Hajj's Tawaf Al Ifaadah and farewell circumambulation (Tawaf Al Wadaa) nor for supererogatory circumambulation for the non-Muhrim.
• Special care must be taken in more congested areas to protect oneself from possibly injuring himself or others. He must not be a burden for his family when out with them.

It is Sunnah for men to do Ramal (fast circumambulation) but not for women.

Tawaf is an essential aspect of Umrah, simply a ceremony of supplication, whereby humbling oneself and submission of needs to Allah occurs through a point of bodily and spiritual expression focusing on Him. The servant worships the Lord of the House and feasts on His commands while passing sideways around the Kaaba, the House of Allah.

The description of Tawaf

• At the corner from which all pilgrims of Hajj or Umrah begin their Tawaf is the Black Stone. This corner, according to the higher floors, is identified with the help of a green sign.
• While pilgrims are under no obligation to say Takbir at such a moment, they should say it every time they become opposite the Black Stone during Hajj or Umrah. It is untrue that Takbir before or after it is void; rather, there could take place Takbir near this site. Thus, Takbir can still be said by the pilgrim should he see himself having just crossed the line opposite the Black Stone.
• When the pilgrim does Takbir, he points with his hand to the Black Stone and then turns and walks counterclockwise around the Kaaba on his left.
• Kissing the Black Stone is a Sunnah for those who can do it, which may be difficult during the rush and flow of pilgrims on the various days of Hajj.
• It is good that one should go around the Ka'bah, praying to Allah and humbly begging Him.
• If possible, it is better to wipe over the Yemeni corner, which is prior to the Black Stone. That is surely going to be difficult during the Hajj season.
• The starting point is the corner of the Black Stone where the Tawaf ends. There one recites the Takbir while pointing with the right hand.
• Repeated until a total of seven rounds has been completed.

Guidelines for Circumambulation

Advice on Safe and Proper Practices of Circumambulation

• When walking around the courtyard of the Holy Kaaba, do not stop to avoid crowding and rubbing against the pilgrims.
• Do not walk the other way for any reason while circumambulating the Kaaba.
• The corner of the Black Stone is marked by the phrase "Allahu Akbar" (Allah is the greatest) inscribed on the fabric covering the Kaaba.
• An indicator in the upper floor circumambulation pathways points to the alignment of the Black Stone by using a green light signal.

During the act of supererogatory circumambulation, all visitors are asked to observe those rules and guidelines for times and conditions of circumambulation, thus giving priority to the Schooled Hajj and Umrah pilgrims.

Avoid busy areas when walking around the Kaaba. You will certainly help disperse crowds by praying off the procession route and going in and out of the Mataf area appropriately.

Someone who is unable to walk or ill should circle in a wheelbarrow, but as this is an act of worship, he is required to stay awake and conscious. He should spend his time in the remembrance of Allah subhanahu wa ta'ala, plea with Him, and should remain busy in the legal act of devotion.

Many varieties of wheelchairs are available to assist with circumambulation around the Haram.

Personal wheelchair of the pilgrim

• Everybody with a wheelchair can enter the Haram provided he comes in from the vehicular area.

Wheelchairs available for free

• If a pilgrim asks someone with him to push him in Sa'i, wheelchairs are provided free of charge for Hajj or Umrah.

Wheelchair access to

• The entrance of the Eastern Square (Mass Transit)
• The Southern square (beside King Abdulaziz, God have mercy on him).
• The Shubaika gate in the Western Square.

Push service for wheelchairs

• One of the young men who have received the necessary training pushes the pilgrim in these wheelchairs.

Electric wheelchairs

• The two types feature single and double varieties; they're both very safe and very efficient for use within Sa'i and within the circumambulation areas.

Where is this service available?

• The electric wheelchairs service is provided at the first mezzanine floor of Sa'i and Circumambulation.

For Muslims, the Kaaba is the most important structure, the Sacred House of Allah. It has a glorious past and an unprecedented high degree of status. It was established here by Abraham and his son Ismail, peace upon them both.

At the Kaaba, one could offer voluntary or obligatory prayers.

"It is the first house that Allah has put upon this Earth for the people to worship Him alone and associate no partner with Him. The Almighty declares that it is the first house (of prayer) established for mankind—a blessed place and guidance for the worlds: the one at Bakkah." It is the center of Muslims' hearts and their Qiblah. It is the sole building they walk around in adoration of Allah.

The features surrounding the Kaaba are as follows:

Al Hatim (Ismail Hijr)

• A small, semicircular area of land nearby has partially been included in the precincts surrounding the Kaaba. To pray in this sanctuary will carry the same rewards as praying within the Kaaba itself.

The door of the Kaaba

• The entryway can be found on the eastern side of the Kaaba. It is entirely made of gold and located two hundred twenty-two centimeters above ground level.
• Width: 171 cm
• Length: 318 cm
• The Kaaba itself is covered with a special kind of cloth known as the "Sitarah" (the curtain).
• The present door was built during the reign of King Khalid bin Abdulaziz.
• It weighs 280 kilograms of solid gold.

The Multazam

• Either the full eastern wall or part of it, sitting between the KhanaKaaba's door and the Black Stone.
• Iltizam is the act of supplication addressed to Allah with the palms pressed to this wall, sometimes even with the arms and face and some portions of the feet. This may be an unfriendly and very difficult or sometimes even impossible task during the pilgrimage season.

Rooftop Gutter

• A portion of the Kaaba that passes water to Hijr Ismail. It is extravagantly lined with pure silver and bountiful in pure gold.

Shazrawan

• This stands to support the Kaaba.
• It wraps around it like clothing.
• It is not part of the Kaaba.
• It was initially constructed to fortify the construction of Kaaba and protect it against very heavy rains.
• It has been preserved since then.
• Now it is covered with white marble.

The Black Stone

• According to the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, the Stone is from Paradise.
• It indicates the start and end of a person's tawaf.
• When there was disagreement about who should replace the Black Stone after rain destroyed part of the structure of the Kaaba, the Prophet (blessings and peace be upon him) replaced it.
• It can be found at the southeast corner of the Kaaba.
• A silver frame has been put around it for protection.
• It is one and a half meters high.
• It is recommended that one kiss the Black Stone according to the Sunnah of the Prophet (blessings be upon him). In doing so, do not jostle or crowd the stone.

The Corner of Yemen

• The Yemeni Corner is one of the four corners of the Kaaba in Mecca. The phrase "Yemeni" is derived from the fact that this corner, along with its counterpart which faces the venerable Black Stone, is directed towards the region of Yemen.
• A circumambulator should brush over a corner without kissing it if he can. It is not recommended for him, however, that if he fails to touch it, say takbeer when he stands parallel to it.

It is one of the gifts bestowed on Makkah and its visitors. It was revealed from Allah to Ismail, peace be upon him, and his mother Hagar after Abraham, peace be upon him, had left them alone in Makkah at Allah's command. He made a supplication before his Lord when he said:

"Our Lord! I have settled some of my descendants in a barren valley by Thy Sacred House; Our Lord! in order that they might establish prayer, so turn the hearts of some men towards them, and provide them with fruits, that they may be thankful."

As an acknowledgment and tribute to Abraham, his son, and his wife, and to the country of Muhammad (blessings and peace be upon him), Allah caused that lovely water to rise from the ground beneath the child's foot, and He endowed its qualities and benefits with a special feature that could not match any water found anywhere in the world.

In the Grand Mosques, there is Zamzam water:

• For drinking water inside the Grand Mosque of Makkah and the Prophet's Mosque, Zamzam is served in cool and warm drinking water containers according to its state.
• Drink pots are made of plastic. This is a one-time-use cup. Inside each big container are fresh cups, placed on the right hand, to be thrown into the bin located on the left.
• Removing these water containers will hamper the personnel employed to refill these containers with water.
• These containers are solely for drinking. Taking away water from the Haram for purposes of purification contaminates Zamzam water and may subsequently injure some of the pilgrims or tourists with possible slipping.

Two Tawaf Rakaah

• After the tawaf, it is a Sunnah to offer two Rakats of prayers. This is a Sunnah understood to be prescribed to every individual who has either performed a nafl tawaf, such as the Hajj or Umrah, and is performed around the Kaaba normally.
• In the first Rak'ah, one praises Surat Al Kafirun and recites Surat Al Ikhlaas in the second Rak'ah. It is supposed to be done even during Tawaf and in an individual offering as it symbolizes the belief in Allah's unique oneness in being worshiped without any partner.
• After circumambulation, it is Sunnah to offer a two-Rak'ah prayer behind Maqam Ibrahim. Such may not be difficult for them for Maqam Ibrahim to be between them and the due Kaaba. It should be prayed wherever guards suggest. Though they can be done anywhere in Haram, those doing Tawaf have a priority over the space over one who prays.

While performing the Tawaf, the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) briefly engaged in some musings. "Take your rites of Hajj from me," he instructed his companions.

Like other rituals of Hajj and Umrah, Tawaf is a major act of devotion that Muslims sincerely attempt to perform upon the invitation of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Allah says: "Say: If you love Allah, then follow me, so that Allah may love you and forgive you your sins." This is a beautiful explanation of the reasons Allah loves His servants. Allah loves His creation and is forgiving and kind.

Among the prescribed forms of Tawaf are:

Takbir:

• Raise your hands and say "Allaahu Akbar" as the first and last words of every circumnavigation of the Kaaba when standing in line with the Black Stone or the Green Light at the 1st and 2nd floors. It is Sunnah.

Supplication:

• The greatest time for summons to Allah is while circling the Kaabah. While doing the tawaf, the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) remained ever engaged in prayers and reflections. After passing the Yemeni corner that lies just next to the black stone, he used to say," Rabbanaa Aatinaa Fid-Dunyaa Hasanatan Wa Fil Aakhirati Hasanatan Waqinaa Adhaab-An-Naar (O our Lord, give us good in this worldly life and in the Hereafter and protect us from the torment of the Fire)."
• The least petition is, however, that for which the heart and tongue do not become united: The tawaf individual then prays for all that captivating it in their native tongue, beseeching Allah to meet all of his needs in all they are concerned with for this world and the Hereafter.
• The supplications of the Messenger of Allah (blessings and peace be upon him) and what is described in the Qur'an are the best and most felicitous.

Idtibaa

• This custom applies to Umrah and the first circumambulation of Hajj. It becomes a Sunnah for men to expose their right shoulder during the Tawaf Uhmmra when they follow the Prophet's, peace be upon him, practice. Furthermore, this is limited to only the Tawaf Umrah or Tawaf Qudoom.

Al Ramal

• Following the Messenger of Allah, peace be upon him, the Sunnah is for males to walk briskly with tiny steps during the first three rounds if possible. They must walk normally afterwards, from Tawaf of Umrah and Tawaf Qudoom until the end of the last four rounds.

Two Rakaat prayers after Tawaf

• Upon completing the circumambulation, it is Sunnah to perform two Rakaat and recite Surah al-Kafirun in the first Rakaah and Surah al-Ikhlas in the second.

The Circumambulation Courtyard

The circumambulation area is a white marble-tiled courtyard surrounding the Noble Kaaba, also referred to as the KaBox. It is now known as The Courtyard, the area where Muslims circle around the Kaaba in devotion.

Some important aspects of the circumambulation courtyard:

• The Honorable Kaaba: It is honored by Muslims as their Qiblah and the only sacred structure towards which they revolve in worship of Allah.
• Maqam Ibrahim (Station of Abraham):
  • Abraham, the son of Azar, while making preparations to erect the Kaaba, took his stand on this stone.
  • It serves as an ever-visible mark of demarcation in the area around the Kaaba.
  • Allah, exalted be He, declared:

    "In it are clear signs: the standing-place of Abraham." (Quran 3:97)

  • This stone, on which Abraham stood while building the Kaaba, is known as Maqam Ibrahim.

Around the Grand Mosque, there are numerous authorized barbershops where pilgrims performing the Hajj and 'Umrah can have their head hair shaved. These stores provide everything you need for a healthy, safe shave.

Make sure there is a barber at the barbershop.

• Makes use of a disposable, single-use razor
• Utilizes new tools and discards old ones.
• Prior to shaving, he washes his hands with soap and water.

Just as the person in Ihram used to worship Allah by not shaving his hair, it is prescribed to shave or shorten the head's hair in the worship of Allah when the pilgrimage procedures are finished. In any scenario, the person is a worshipper of Allah and submits to Him.

During the Hajj, shaving and hair trimming

• This occurs on the Day of Sacrifice (Eid), following the stoning of Jamrat Al Aqabah.

During Umrah, shaving and hair trimming

• This occurs following the completion of Sa'i and the circumambulation.

Shaving and Trimming in Men

• The male pilgrims should preferably shave their heads and, if necessary, at least have their hair cut short. If he is performing either Hajj or Umrah, he must shave all his hair.

Women must cut only a small portion of each hair

• A woman is permitted to cut her hair only to the extent of trimming her locks when she performs Hajj or Umrah, for which she gathers her hair and cuts about 1-2 centimeters of it.

Note

• In order for Hajj or Umrah pilgrims to keep the Haram clean and uncontaminated, their heads will be shaved only at designated sites for that purpose.

Sa'i can be performed on behalf of a person who cannot walk due to disability, exhaustion, illness, or advanced age. This should, however, be done in conscious worship, and for each station of the Sa'i, that is, upon reaching Safa or Marwa, supplications, in the form of Takbir, must be offered to Allah.

There are different types of wheelchairs available for circumambulation.

Pilgrims' wheelchairs:

• A pilgrim on a wheelchair can use it to gain entry provided he enters through the gates designated for the disabled.

Wheelchairs on free basis:

• Free wheelchairs are available to those who are performing the Hajj or Umrah if pilgrims have someone to help them during Sa'i.

The following terminal points will grant access to these wheelchairs:

• East square (the entry point for the bus)
• South square (alongside King Abdulaziz's Endowment)
• Southwest square, Shubaikah Gate

Progressive Wheelchair Help:

• These young lads are trained to move persons in wheelchairs.

Service Areas:

• On the ground floor of the Tawaf yard (the start and end point) (website link)
• Tawaf yard ground floor - Gate 14
• Al-Arqam Escalators of Tawaf yard, on the second floor
• King Abdul Aziz Endowment

Electric Wheelchairs:

• Electric wheelchairs are intended to supply safety and ease of control in Sa'i and Tawaf.
• One-seater and Two-seater types of electric wheelchairs.

Service Access Points:

• The first mezzanine floor of Sa'i and Circumambulation has electric wheelchairs.

Safa and Marwa - What are they?

• Hagar, the mother of Ismail, ran back and forth over the small hillocks of Safa and Marwa in search of food and water.

Safa

• Sa'i begins from this small hill, and one may see the stones of this hill still on this ground level.

Marwa

• A small hill is at the end of a round of Sa'i.

Sa'i is one of the most important rituals.

• The first of the rites of Hajj and Umrah involves Sa'i between Safa and Marwa. "Indeed, Safa and Marwa are among the symbols of Allah," proclaimed Allah the Exalted. Thus, whoever performs Umrah or Hajj at the Baitullah, that sa'i between them is not guilty.
• The pilgrim who performs Hajj or Umrah, as did his noble Messenger (peace and blessings be upon Him), walks the distance between Safa and Marwa seven times in worship of his Lord.

The starting and ending point of Sa'i

• After leaving Safa, one does Sa'i, on a place called Marwa.After having gone one lengths,you reach Marwa. The second length is done when you head back to Safa, and so on, until the seventh length ends on Marwa.

A prayer at the commencement of Safa and Marwa

• When one reaches the beginning of Safa and Marwa before embarking on the next round,it is Sunnah to raise the hands and face the Qibla and pray to Allah, saying, "Allahu Akbar"

The two green signs

• It is recommended that the capable people run between the two green signs, as was the practice of the Messenger of Allah (blessings and peace be upon him).

During Sa'i, prayers

• It's best for the pilgrim to spend the entire Sa'i in the remembrance of, and invocation to, Allah or the recitation of Qur'an.

The invocation of the Prophet during Sa'

• When he arrived at Safa after the tawaf, he would recite the verse from the Quran {Indeed, Safa and Marwa are among the symbols of Allah}. Then the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, would say, {Begin with what Allah began with}.
• The Prophet (blessings and peace be upon him) faced the Qiblah and recited the following: "Allah is the greatest. Allah is the greatest.There is no true god but Allah alone. He has no partner. His is the Sovereignty, to Him praise is due and He is powerful over everything.There is no true god but Allah alone. He fulfilled His promise, helped His servant to victory, and alone routed the Confederates."After that, he shall supplicate with whatever he wishes, repeat the above remembrance, and proceed with Sa'i.

The Sa'i does not stop at a distance ahead too long to say prayers in a place clear of pedestrians and not formed into a barricade.Rather, the orders issued by the security personnel in the holy sanctuary must be strictly conformed to.

Safa and Marwa, what are they?

• Hagar climbed over two hills searching for water and food for Ismail, her son.
• Safa: The hill where Sa'i starts, has still some of its rocks on Al Masaa's ground floor.
• Marwa: The hill opposite Safa, where Sa'i comes to an end.

Below are the changes brought in by Al Masaa

• Distance: 394 meters
• Total distance walked around the seven rounds: more or less, 2,761 meters
• Sa'i duration: Takes a person, on average, around 45 to 55 minutes to complete. Many different factors influence the speed of walking.

Al Masaa floors

Al Masaa spreads across a floorspace of 87,000 square meters spread over several floors.

The floors are:

• Basement
• Ground floor
• Electric wheelchair mezzanine floor
• First floor
• Second floor
• Roof of Al Masaa

• There are signs within the Grand Mosque guiding pilgrims to Al Masaa after completing the Tawaf, indicating Safa as the starting point for Sa'i.
• To make Sa'i more comfortable for everyone, it is recommended to perform Sa'i upstairs rather than downstairs, where congestion is anticipated.
• The reader of the Quran, the one who remembers Allah and supplicates Him, should always give precedence during Sa'i and avoid stopping to pray, blocking the way, and crowding the area. Prayers should be conducted as per the rules laid down by the security and regulation staff.
• It will be needed for men to increase their speed for Sa'i only between the two green flags, remaining steady and moderate at all other times.
• Those who are performing Sa'i must stop and pause to join the congregation for prayer if the Iqamah has been recited for prayer, and then commence Sa'i again from where they left off.
• Start the Sa'i only when the diabetic patient feels strong enough in food and medication. Avoid hurting your feet. Take a break when you feel faint.

Praying in the Grand Mosque at Makkah, among its many benefits, is equal to 100,000 prayers in any other mosque. It has been informed by the Prophet that a prayer in the Sacred Mosque is better than a hundred thousand prayers elsewhere.

All of the mosques and Makkah-related buildings that are situated inside the Haram's borders fall under this virtue. There also is a reward for supererogatory and required prayers.

During the height of the busy hours, devotees can pray anywhere in the Masjid al-Haram and, hence, when performed in the Masjid al-Haram will receive immense rewards.

The following are prohibited in the Grand Mosque:

• Foods and beverages (apart from water, coffee, and dates)
• Sharp instruments
• Combustible liquids
• Big luggage and bags
• Cars for babies
• It is not advisable for pilgrims to leave their personal things and bags at the gates. They can store their possessions in the safe boxes located in the Haram's outside courtyards.

A few things that you need to have before going to the Haram are as follows:

• A slip or hotel card stating the address of your house
• An umbrella and sunglasses
• Your ID, some cash, and a wallet
• A small purse for personal items
• Ensure your cell phone is charged
• Paper tissues
• A plastic shoe-carrying bag

Warning and Instructions:

• If you are taking medication on a long-term basis, please ensure you have an adequate supply of your medicines in case you need to take your regular doses.
• Place your passport and valuables safely before you move.
• Do empirical research about saving the address of your home in your phone before leaving.
• At the entrance of the Grand Mosque, there'll be no lack of chairs should you need to sit.

One of the finest and greatest prayers that take place is on Fridays, being better at the Grand Mosque due to the bundling of time, place, and worship.

Its priority would suggest: Friday is "the best day on which the sun ever rose" according to the Prophet (blessings and peace be upon him). The Prophet has introduced a multitude of recommended behaviors and virtues specific to Friday, including bathing (ghusl), dressing in their finest clothes, wearing perfume, arriving at the mosque early, reciting Surat Al-Kahf, sending prayers and supplications upon the Prophet (blessings and peace be upon him), and waiting for the hour when prayers are answered.

Overcrowding at the Haram during prayer on Fridays:

It is but natural for tourists to wish to attend Friday prayers at the Grand Mosque, but this leads to excessive crowding during the Hajj season. Here are some handy tips:

• Do not crowd and push people to harm others and yourself.
• Do not leave right after prayer; arrive at least an hour early.
• Do not go to the Haram for Friday prayer if you are too tired or exhausted to reach there before the time, such that the sun does not daunt you under the blistering rays at noon.
• Remember that whichever mosque you worship in within the limits of the Sanctuary will give you an equal quantity of prayer.

Children of all ages can be taken by their parents to pray at the Grand Mosque in Makkah. The parents must obtain an Umrah permit for every child above five.

Parents must take care that the child wears a bracelet or a card stating his/her name and phone number. The child should never be out of the sight of his/her parents; he/she must hold the parent's hand at all times so that they do not get lost. The child is also expected not to hinder the pilgrims.

Care Center for Stray Children: Lost children in the Grand Mosque are taken to the Care Center for Stray Children, where they are returned to their families. It is run under the surveillance of the Grand Mosque of Makkah security team.

The Grand Mosque of Makkah contains a total of 68 prayer spaces for women. They are distributed in the following manner:

• There are 20 prayer halls in the basements, the King Fahd extension, and within the Mataf courtyard.
• 48 prayer halls in the third expansion in Saudi Arabia.
• These prayer halls are overseen by more than 120 female staff working four shifts throughout the day. Some of the halls admit disabled women. The smart robots found in some halls provide fatwas, explain how to perform the rites, answer questions, and give possible support for distance communication with the sheikhs in several languages.

Provisions given at women's prayer halls by duly qualified female staff include:

• The organization and direction of women's rows in the prayer halls.
• Opening and closing prayer halls, enabling full access to women's-only facilities and corridors.
• Advising and instructing female guests on how to pray correctly, perform ablution and funeral prayers, and conducting workshops to increase their ability to engage in and perfect the recital of the Holy Quran.
• Some guides and counseling are offered in women's prayer halls in various international languages.

• Prayer performed in the Prophet's Mosque is a thousand times better than prayer performed anywhere. The Prophet (may peace and blessings be upon him) said that a prayer in my mosque is equal to a thousand prayers elsewhere-except for the Sacred Mosque [Makkah].
• If Muslims get the means to visit, it should be noted to them that they visit the mosque of the Prophet and pray there. "Do not travel to visit any mosque, except for three mosques: the Sacred Mosque [Makkah], this Mosque of Mine, and Al-Aqsa Mosque," said the Prophet (may peace and blessings be upon him).
• Prayers performed in the mosque of the Prophet yield more rewards for obligatory and non-obligatory prayers.

When a Muslim travels to Madinah, it is advisable to go to the Prophet's (peace and blessings be upon him) grave, greet him, and make the prayer.

Formalities involved in visiting the tomb of the Prophet

• The visitors enter the Prophet's Mosque through the Salam Gate and are reminded to observe tranquility. When they reach the other end of the Prophet's Burial Chamber, the place where the Prophet is honoredly buried, they welcome the Noble Messenger with the words: "Peace, mercy, and blessings of Allah be upon you, Messenger of Allah." Next, they will offer prayers for Allah's Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him), take a few steps to greet Abu Bakr Siddiq, and then take another step to greet Omar bin Kalib.

Guidelines for visiting the tomb of the Prophet

• The visitor should stand with respect and decorum; to make noises is forbidden. Both the living and the dead accord full respect to the Prophet of Islam (peace and blessings be upon him). The visitor must approach the Prophet very close and face his grave to greet him. He shall depart with grace and decorum to allow others to pay respects also.

Some places are elevated by Allah over others. Honorable Raudh is like a garden of Paradise among the most elevated and appreciated locations which Allah Almighty adored.

The Highest Rawdah

• The honorable Rawda is part of the courtyard of the Prophet's Mosque. Located in the front part of the mosque, it extends from the Prophet's house, the noble chamber, to his minbar. The highly coveted Rawda is considered extremely noble. It is a place where Allah's mercy and blessings descend. The Prophet and his noble companions prayed and made supplications there. It is one of the most blessed parts of the mosque. The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said, "What is between my house and my pulpit is one of the gardens of Paradise."

How to pray in Rawdah Shareefah?

• Due to crowding by the high volume of people desirous of prayers in the honorable Rawdah, entry is controlled. Guest reservation is through the Zuljannah Website. The scheduled entry will be one at a time from various gates.

• The Friday prayer is among the grandest and greatest prayers, even more so in the mosque of the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him), where time, space, and worship meet.

The virtue of Friday prayer.

• Friday, as noted by the Prophet, is "the best day in which the sun has ever risen." Among the many recommended acts and virtues connected with Friday are bathing (ghusl), wearing the best of garments, applying perfume, going early to the mosque to offer prayers over the Prophet, revered blessings and peace be upon him, and waiting in hope for the moment when prayers become answered.

Avoid knotted crowd during Friday prayers.

On any other occasion, the tourists will eagerly wait and pray in the Grand Mosque, but in summer, this makes the crowd tighter in Haram and makes it somewhat suffocating. For that reason, here are some important pieces of advice:

• Minimize the movement of the populace, which may be a cause of injury to you or others.
• Do not leave the place right after the prayers and also do not arrive too late.
• The Prophet's Mosque even includes the roof to gather with the believers during Friday prayers.
• Do not stand under the sun.
• There will be sermons given in various languages on Fridays.

Women pray in two big spaces.

• The western prayer hall can be accessed from gates 13 to 17D.
• The northern prayer hall can be accessed from gates 23 to 31B.

Hon. Rawdah's visit with the women

• >Women can enter and pray at the honored Rawdah, as long as it is arranged through "Nusuk." The Eastern Women's Prayer Hall gates 25 and 29 grant the women access to the honored Rawdah.

Women's Restrooms and Ablution Stations

• Every section of the sanctuary has women's washrooms close to their praying areas, with "Women" clearly marked on them.

Numbers indicate WCs:

• Moses 11B, 9, and 12A in the Northern section.
• Mosque 13A in the Eastern section.
• Moses 7A and 7B in the Western section.