From Heart to Haram: A Woman’s Complete Guide to Visiting and Saying Salaam in Rawdah

From Heart to Haram: A Woman’s Complete Guide to Visiting and Saying Salaam in Rawdah

 

An emotional and practical guide for women travelling to Madinah. Learn Rawdah entry timings, proper etiquette, duas, spiritual preparation and how to present yourself at the Prophet’s Mosque.

The Spiritual Journey to Madinah

Visiting Al - Madinah Al -Munawwarah holds profound emotional and spiritual significance. For a Muslim woman, entering the Prophet’s ﷺ Mosque is more than a journey — it is an answered prayer. The opportunity to stand before the resting place of the Prophet ﷺ is a blessing steeped in history, love and longing. Yet with that honour comes the responsibility of maintaining adab (proper manners) and humility throughout the visit.

Understanding the Rawdah and Its Significance

The space between the Prophet’s ﷺ minbar (pulpit) and his resting place is called Rawdah al‑Jannah, described as a garden from the gardens of Paradise. For women, access is limited to specific times each day, making it both emotionally and logistically significant. This sacred area witnessed the Prophet’s ﷺ sermons, the gatherings of the Sahabah, and revelations of Qur’an. Enter with a heart full of dhikr and humility, aware of the immense blessing you are about to experience.

Maintaining Proper Etiquette and Appearance

Prepare yourself before going to offer salaam:

  • Wear clean, modest clothing; abaya and hijab are mandatory.

  • Light, non‑alcoholic fragrance may be used if you are not in ihram.

  • Keep your du‘a prepared in your heart or carry a small prayer book.

  • Avoid excessive makeup, loud behaviour, chatting or crowding.

  • Refrain from taking photos or videos inside Rawdah.

  • Lower your gaze, use a gentle voice and respect the guards and other women.

The Rawdah also adjoins the chamber where the Prophet ﷺ rests alongside Abu Bakr RA and Umar RA. Although the sepulchres cannot be accessed, they can be viewed respectfully from behind the gilded partition.

What to Say When Giving Salaam

When you stand before the Prophet’s ﷺ resting place, greet him with full presence:

As‑salāmu ʿalayka ayyuhā n‑Nabiyyu wa raḥmatullāhi wa barakātuh.
Peace be upon you, O Prophet, and the mercy of Allah and His blessings.

Then send peace and blessings:

Allāhumma ṣalli ʿalā Muḥammad wa ʿalā āli Muḥammad...

Afterwards greet Abu Bakr RA and Umar RA, and take a moment for silent du‘a. Let your salaam come from love and mindfulness, imagining the Prophet ﷺ is hearing you — because he does.

Praying in Rawdah

Praying in Rawdah carries immense spiritual reward:

  • Greater chance of du‘as being accepted.

  • A unique serenity and stillness unlike anywhere else.

Begin with Tahiyyatul Masjid (two raka‘ah greeting prayer):

“When one of you enters the mosque, let him not sit until he prays two rak‘ahs.”
(Bukhari & Muslim)

You may then offer nafl salah, quiet personal supplications and dhikr.

Updated Guidelines for Accessing Rawdah (2025)

Women must pre‑schedule their visit via the Nusuk App:

  1. Download the app (Android/iOS).

  2. Log in or register with your details and visa number.

  3. Choose “Praying in the Noble Rawdah.”

  4. Select gender, time slot and date.

  5. Receive a QR code for entry.

Women’s Rawdah Entrance (Gate 25 – Bab Uthman ibn Affan):

  • Morning: 6:00 AM – 11:00 AM

  • Evening: 9:30 PM – 12:00 AM

Book 24–48 hours in advance, especially during Ramadan or Hajj.

Recognising Rawdah

Rawdah stands out by its green carpets, the Prophet’s ﷺ wooden minbar, the golden ornate enclosure of his tomb and distinctive green‑white marble pillars. Follow mosque staff directions to ensure you are in the correct area.

How to Make the Most of Your Time in Rawdah

You may:

  • Perform two raka‘ah of Tahiyyatul Masjid.

  • Offer nafl salah.

  • Make du‘a quietly and sincerely.

  • Engage in dhikr or recite short surahs.

Avoid selfies, arguing or overstaying your slot. If unsure, simply stand with raised hands and pour your heart into your du‘a — Allah accepts your intention.

Women’s Facilities Around Rawdah

  • Signs in multiple languages with volunteer support.

  • Dedicated wheelchair corridors and doorways.

  • Air‑conditioning and clean wudu areas.

  • Enhanced female security and staff in Arabic, English, Urdu and Bahasa.

Extending the Blessing

Your journey to Madinah is filled with gratitude and reverence. One way to extend that barakah is to Gift a Qur’an in the Prophet’s ﷺ Mosque. We assist sisters by placing Qur’ans in Masjid an‑Nabawi on their behalf and providing proof of placement, allowing them to dedicate the reward to loved ones.

Conclusion

Offering salaam in Madinah is a moment that stays with you for life. It is where you thank the Prophet ﷺ for his sacrifices and love for his ummah. Even if you cannot touch the green carpet or stay long, do not be disheartened. Allah values your effort, yearning and sincerity.

The Prophet ﷺ said:

“Actions are by intentions.” (Bukhari & Muslim)

Even from a distance, your salaam reaches him through the angels. Continue sending salawat after leaving Madinah and live his sunnah as a way of keeping that connection alive.

FAQs (Quick Answers)

  • Visiting hours? Specific time slots after Fajr and after Isha (check on site).

  • Permit required? Yes, book through the Nusuk App (“Ziyarat” > “Rawdah for Women”).

  • Dress code? Modest, loose clothing. Socks and easily removable shoes recommended.

  • Photos/videos? Strongly discouraged — it disrupts the sanctity.

  • Behaviour in line? Patience and silence; engage in dhikr quietly.

  • Can’t reach the green carpet? Send your salaam sincerely from afar.

  • Make personal du‘as? Yes, but briefly to allow others.

  • Cry or express emotion? Yes, quietly and respectfully.

  • Multiple visits? Possible if you secure another booking.

  • After exiting Rawdah? Sit quietly, reflect, offer two raka‘ah nafl, continue salawat.

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