Find the Qibla Wherever You Are
A simple explanation of the Qibla, how its direction is calculated, and how to get the most accurate result.
What is the Qibla?
The Qibla is the direction of the Kaaba in Makkah. Muslims face it in every prayer, so knowing it accurately matters wherever you are, at home, at work or on the road.
When you travel for Hajj or Umrah, you will often stay in hotels or unfamiliar places where the Qibla is not marked. A quick way to find it saves time and worry before each prayer.
How the Qibla direction is worked out
The Earth is a sphere, so the shortest path to Makkah is a curve, not a straight line on a flat map. This tool calculates that shortest path from your location to the Kaaba and gives you the bearing, measured in degrees clockwise from true north.
It also shows your distance to the Kaaba, so you can see how far you are from Makkah.
Ways to find your location
- Use my location: your browser shares your position once, and the Qibla is calculated on your device.
- Enter coordinates: type your latitude and longitude if you prefer not to share your location, or if location is blocked.
- Live compass: on a phone, the dial turns as you turn, and the pointer changes colour when you are facing the Qibla.
Getting the most accurate result
Hold your phone flat and away from magnets, metal and thick cases, since these can throw the compass off. If the reading seems wrong, move your phone in a figure of 8 to recalibrate it, then try again.
Compass sensors can be a few degrees out, so when you can, confirm with a local mosque or a prayer-direction marker.