A Guide: In the Presence of the Prophet ﷺ – Visiting the Rawdah
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A Guide: In the Presence of the Prophet ﷺ – Visiting the Rawdah
Discover how to prepare spiritually and physically before visiting Rawdah al-Mubarak in Madinah. This guide includes etiquettes, Arabic salaam, essential duas, and heartfelt reminders especially for sisters preparing for their journey to the beloved city of the Prophet ﷺ.
A Journey of the Heart: Preparing for Madinah
There’s something extraordinary about preparing for a journey to Madinah. As you complete your Umrah, your heart begins to stir with anticipation for the city of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.
So many of us have whispered countless duas asking Allah to take us to this sacred land. Now, as your heart races and your bags are packed, the realisation dawns: you are about to stand in the presence of the most beloved of all creation ﷺ.
You are not just entering a city you’re entering the heart of Islam. You are walking into a space where love, peace, and light reside. The emotions are powerful, overwhelming, and humbling.
Standing in Rawdah: A Place Like No Other
For every believer, especially those visiting from places like the UK and across the Western world, standing in Rawdah is deeply personal yet universally meaningful.
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“What is between my house and my pulpit is a garden from the gardens of Paradise.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari: 1196, Sahih Muslim: 1391)
The Rawdah isn’t just an area within the mosque. It is a piece of Jannah (Paradise) right here on Earth.
Yet, gaining access is not always easy. The crowds are immense, the wait can be long, and the atmosphere intense. But once you step foot on the green carpet of Rawdah, everything else fades. You realise - this is not a visit, it's a calling.
Before You Arrive: How to Prepare for Rawdah
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Begin with Ghusl and Clean Clothes
Once you arrive in Madinah and check in to your hotel, perform ghusl (ritual bath). Wear clean, modest clothing—preferably white or new—and apply a small amount of non-alcoholic fragrance. -
Recite Salawat Abundantly
As you travel toward Masjid an-Nabawi, continuously send blessings upon the Prophet ﷺ:
اللّهُمَّ صَلِّ عَلَىٰ مُحَمَّدٍ وَعَلَىٰ آلِ مُحَمَّدٍ
“O Allah, send blessings upon Muhammad and the family of Muhammad.”
Entering Masjid al-Nabawi
Upon entering the mosque, say the du'a:
اللّهُمَّ افْتَحْ لِي أَبْوَابَ رَحْمَتِكَ
“O Allah, open for me the doors of Your mercy.”
Then:
• Perform two raka’at of Tahiyyatul Masjid (if it is not time for a fardh salah).
• Sit calmly, lower your gaze, and remind yourself: you are in the court of the Beloved ﷺ.
Moving Towards Rawdah: Proper Etiquette
The journey towards the Rawdah is sensitive and sacred. Some etiquettes to follow:
• Maintain a slow and gentle walk, regardless of the crowd.
• Avoid casual conversations; guard your eyes, heart, and emotions.
• No selfies or photos — don’t waste this moment trying to post it online.
• Do not shove or force your way. Patience itself is a form of ibadah.
• Enter with humility and deep remorse for your past sins.
• In your heart, seek forgiveness from the one who was sent as a mercy to mankind ﷺ.
“Raise not your voices above the voice of the Prophet...”
(Surah Al-Hujurat 49:2)
This ayah is relevant not only during his lifetime but even more so after his passing.
Presenting Your Salaam in Arabic
To the Prophet ﷺ:
السلام عليك يا رسول الله، السلام عليك يا حبيب الله، السلام عليك يا نبي الله.
“Peace be upon you, O Messenger of Allah, peace be upon you, O Beloved of Allah, peace be upon you, O Prophet of Allah.”
To Hazrat Abu Bakr RA:
السلام عليك يا أبا بكر، السلام عليك يا خليفة رسول الله، جزاك الله عن الإسلام خيرا.
“Peace be upon you, O Abu Bakr, peace be upon you, O Caliph of the Messenger of Allah, may Allah reward you for your service to Islam.”
To Hazrat Umar ibn al-Khattab RA:
السلام عليك يا عمر، السلام عليك يا أمير المؤمنين، جزاك الله عن الإسلام خيرا.
“Peace be upon you, O Umar, peace be upon you, O Leader of the Believers, may Allah reward you for your service to Islam.”
After Salaam: Make Du’a Sincerely
Step aside respectfully so others can approach.
Then turn to Allah in deep, sincere, and focused du’a.
Hadith and Adab at the Prophet’s Court ﷺ
Imam Malik رحمه الله used to sit at the grave of the Prophet ﷺ with his eyes lowered and voice softened. When asked why, he replied:
“This is the court of the Messenger of Allah. I lower my gaze out of shame before him.”
Adab (respect) in the court of the Prophet ﷺ is not optional — it is a part of love, iman, and reverence.
A Global Responsibility: Extend the Blessing
While standing in Rawdah, think about those who may never have the chance to experience this — the elderly, the ill, or the financially struggling.
Thanks to efforts like Gift a Wheelchair and Gift a Qur’an by Lands of Haram, many are now able to access this spiritual journey.
• Gift a Wheelchair helps the elderly and disabled visit the Haramain.
• Gift a Qur’an allows you to share the words of Allah with those who have never owned one.
Make your Rawdah visit even more meaningful by becoming a means for others.
FAQs: Praying in the Rawdah & Visiting the Prophet ﷺ
What is Rawdah al-Mubarak?
It is the space between the Prophet’s ﷺ house and pulpit — a garden from Paradise.
Can women visit the Rawdah?
Yes, during specific allocated times.
What should I wear?
Clean, modest clothing. New clothes are ideal. Avoid excessive fragrance.
Can I take photos there?
It is strongly discouraged due to the sacredness of the space.
What should I recite while walking?
Abundant Salawat (Durood Shareef) and silent dhikr.
How should I give salaam?
With a soft voice, lowered gaze, and full concentration.
Can I raise my hands in du’a?
Yes, but discreetly and without disturbing others.
Can I make du’a to the Prophet ﷺ?
No. Du’a is made to Allah. The Prophet ﷺ is a means (waseela), not the one being supplicated to.
What’s the best time to visit Rawdah?
After Fajr or late at night are usually less crowded.
Can I cry there?
Yes. Tears of love and repentance are a sign of a soft, sincere heart.
Can I touch the grill around the grave?
It is better to avoid touching or crowding the area to maintain respect and order.
Should I speak to others while inside?
No. Remain in dhikr and silence.
What if I can’t enter Rawdah?
Send your salaam from a distance. Allah knows your intention.
Can I recite Qur’an in Rawdah?
Yes, but quietly and respectfully.
Is there a specific du’a for Rawdah?
No set du’a — pour your heart out with sincerity.