Understand the blessed places to visit, how to prepare before you go and how to visit them with the right etiquette and intention.
What Is Ziyarat?
Ziyarat means visiting. In the context of pilgrimage, it refers to visiting the blessed places connected to the life of the Prophet ﷺ and the early Muslim community, mainly in Madinah and Makkah.
Ziyarat is not one of the rites of Umrah or Hajj, and your pilgrimage is complete without it. Many pilgrims choose to visit these places to reflect on the history of Islam, strengthen their faith and learn from the lives of those who came before us.
Key Places to Visit
- Masjid an-Nabawi in Madinah, including the Rawdah, where you can pray and send salawat upon the Prophet ﷺ.
- The Prophet's ﷺ grave and the graves of Abu Bakr and Umar (may Allah be pleased with them), where visitors offer salam in a respectful, quiet manner.
- Jannat al-Baqi, the cemetery in Madinah where many Companions and members of the Prophet's family are buried.
- Masjid Quba, the first mosque built in Islam, where many pilgrims pray two rakats after making wudu at their accommodation.
- Mount Uhud and the martyrs' cemetery, a reminder of the Battle of Uhud and the sacrifice of the Companions.
- Places in Makkah such as Jabal al-Nour and the Cave of Hira, Jabal Thawr, and the area of Mina, Arafat and Muzdalifah, visited for learning and reflection.
How to Prepare for Ziyarat
Learn about each place before you visit, so you understand its history and the correct manners of visiting. Ziyarat is an opportunity to remember Allah, send blessings upon the Prophet ﷺ and learn from the Seerah.
- Learn the history and significance of each site from reliable sources before you go.
- Remember that supplication is made to Allah alone, and that no place or object has power to benefit or harm.
- Follow the etiquette of each site, including lowering your voice and respecting the guidelines of the authorities.
- Check opening hours, access rules and visiting times for the Rawdah and other sites, as these can change.
- Dress modestly, wear comfortable footwear and carry water, especially during hot weather.
- Allow time for rest, and consider joining a reputable guide or group to avoid unreliable information.