Masjid Al Qiblatayn Tickets & Tours & Informataion April 2025

Masjid Al Qiblatayn

Masjid al-Qiblatayn, or the Mosque of Two Qiblas, is one of the most important and historical mosques in Madinah, located approximately 4 kilometers from the Prophet's Mosque (Masjid al-Nabawi). The mosque's historical significance lies in its role during the early days of Islam when the qibla (direction of prayer) was changed from Jerusalem to Makkah. This pivotal event took place while Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was leading prayers at this mosque, marking it as the first site where the qibla was switched. Visitors often come to Masjid al-Qiblatayn to witness this key moment in Islamic history and to pray in a mosque that holds great spiritual value.

The Basics

Masjid al-Qiblatayn is relatively modest in terms of architecture compared to some of Madinah’s grander mosques, but its historical importance makes it a must-visit for pilgrims and history enthusiasts alike. The mosque has two prayer areas: one that faces Jerusalem and the other that faces Makkah, symbolizing the moment when the qibla was changed. While there are no major monuments or elaborate structures within the mosque, its simplicity adds to the spiritual atmosphere of the site. It is a place where visitors can pray and reflect on the early development of Islam during the time of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

Things to Know Before You Go

Before visiting Masjid al-Qiblatayn, it’s important to be aware of the mosque’s customs. Dress modestly, as this is a place of worship. Men should cover their arms and legs, and women should wear abayas or loose-fitting attire and cover their hair. Visitors should also be mindful of the prayer times and avoid disturbing the congregation during prayer. It’s always best to check the local prayer schedule before visiting. While photography is generally not allowed in the mosque, you can take photos of the mosque from outside. It is also advisable to bring water, especially during the summer months, as the area around the mosque is quite open and may get hot.

How to Get There

Masjid al-Qiblatayn is easy to reach from the center of Madinah. The mosque is about a 10-15 minute drive from Masjid al-Nabawi. If you’re staying in a hotel near the Prophet's Mosque, taxis or private cars are readily available to take you to Masjid al-Qiblatayn. Alternatively, there are local buses and taxis that service the area. For those who enjoy walking, it’s approximately a 30-40 minute walk, passing through scenic streets and local neighborhoods. If you're joining a guided tour of Madinah, Masjid al-Qiblatayn is typically included as one of the stops.

When to Get There

The best times to visit Masjid al-Qiblatayn are early in the morning or in the evening, as the temperatures are cooler and the mosque is less crowded. This is especially important in the summer months, when Madinah can become quite hot. Fridays, being a holy day, can result in larger crowds, so if you're looking for a quieter visit, try to avoid peak prayer times, such as right before or after the Friday prayers. The cooler months of November to March are also ideal for visiting, as the weather is milder and more comfortable for outdoor activities.

Day Trips from Medine

Masjid al-Qiblatayn can be easily incorporated into a day trip around Madinah, especially for visitors keen on exploring the city’s historical and religious significance. After visiting Masjid al-Nabawi, a short trip to Masjid al-Qiblatayn offers insight into the early days of Islam. You can also visit nearby sites, including Uhud Mountain, where the Battle of Uhud took place, and the Uhud Martyrs' Cemetery, where many companions of the Prophet (PBUH), including Hamzah ibn Abd al-Muttalib, are buried. These landmarks form an enriching part of Madinah’s history, and a guided tour often includes Masjid al-Qiblatayn along with other historical spots.