The latest Saudi reforms have extended the Umrah visa period from 30 days to 90 days. Now, pilgrims can visit and explore other places of historical significance in Saudi Arabia. Best Umrah packages in Ramadan, crafted by different travel agencies, aim to optimize a pilgrim’s trip in the best possible way. This study is designed to help you get much out of your trip by visiting and exploring other spiritual and hypnotic sites.
A Guide to Visit 6 Must-See Mosques on Umrah Trip
Saudi Arabia is rich in places, highlighting its historical significance. Some of them are listed below:
- Masjid-al-Haram
- Masjid e Ayesha
- Al-Masjid an-Nabawi (S.A.W.W)
- Masjid Quba
- Masjid Al-Qiblatain
- The Seven Mosques
1- Masjid-al-Haram
It is the Great Mosque in Makkah and the holiest site in Islam. While offering prayers, Muslims residing all over the world direct their faces towards this mosque. Its history dates back to the time of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and his son Isma’il (Ishmael), who were ordered by Allah to construct the Kaaba as a place of worship. The mosque has undergone many changes over time. It has expanded a lot, with the oldest parts of today’s structure dating to the 16th century.
Covering an area of 356000 square meters, this mosque is renowned for accommodating 3 million worshippers at a time. Plus, the mosque’s composition includes the Black Stone, the Zamzam Well, Maqam Ibrahim, and the hills of Safa and Marwa, integral to the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages.
2- Masjid e Ayesha
It is also known as Masjid Taneem, an historical and significant mosque for pilgrims performing Hajj and Umrah. It is named after the Holy Prophet’s (S.A.W.W) wife Ayesha. Historically, it is the spot where Ayesha entered the state of Ihram during the Prophet’s farewell Hajj. Masjid e Ayesha lies about 7.5 km south of Makkah on the road to Madinah and serves as a Miqat. Covering 84,000 square meters, the mosque can accommodate up to 15,000 worshippers and reflects deep historical and religious importance.
3- Al-Masjid an-Nabawi (S.A.W.W)
It is a colossal Islamic site in Madinah, also known as the Prophet’s Mosque. Established by the Holy Prophet (S.A.W.W) in 622 CE, it is the second Islamic holiest site. Originally, it was a modest structure of palm trunks and mud walls, but the mosque has been expanded significantly over the centuries. Today, it features 10 minarets and an iconic Green Dome under which the Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.W) and the first two caliphs, Abu Bakr and Umar lie. It is large enough to accommodate millions of worshippers at a time. With open yards and prayer halls, the mosque is a splendid picture of Islamic architecture.
4- Masjid Quba
Located in Madinah, this mosque is revered for being the first mosque built in Islamic history, dating back to 622 CE. It was established by Prophet Muhammad upon his migration to Medina, with the first stones reportedly laid by him. With time, the mosque has undergone many renovations. Its modern structure, featuring a prayer hall, residential areas, offices, and shops, was completed in 1986. It boasts a courtyard of black, red, and white marble, four minarets, and 56 domes. Indeed, it is highly admirable to pray in this mosque, equated to the reward of an Umrah.
5- Masjid Al-Qiblatain
This historically significant mosque, located in Madinah, is also known as the “Mosque of the Two Qiblas”. It is the place where Prophet Muhammad received the divine command to change the Qibla from Jerusalem to Mecca during prayer. This mosque was built in 623 CE by Sawad Ibn Ghanam ibn Ka’ab. Originally, it had two mihrabs, pointing to both Qiblas. In 1987, when the mosque underwent renovation, the older mihrab facing Jerusalem was removed, leaving only the one facing Makkah. This mosque has a large capacity to accommodate 2000 worshippers at a time.
6- The Seven Mosques
The Seven Mosques, also known as Al-Masjid Al-Sab’ah, feature a complex of six historic mosques in Madinah, despite the name suggesting seven. These mosques are linked with the Battle of Trench, where Muslims defended Madinah against Quraysh and their allies. Each mosque is named after a famous Islamic personality, stationed there during the battle. The complex comprises the following:
Al-Fath Mosqe
It is the largest mosque, located on Mount Sala’s western side, where the Prophet (S.A.W.W) offered the victory prayer.
Salman Al-Farsi Mosque
It is named after the companion of Prophet (S.A.W.W) who formed the trench strategy.
Abu Bakr Al-Siddiq Mosque
It is designed in the commemoration of the first Islamic Caliph.
Umar bin Khattab Mosque
It is dedicated to the second Islamic Caliph.
Sa’d bin Mu’adh Mosque
This mosque honors the Ansar leader.
Ali bin Abu Talib Mosque
It marks where Ali joined the battle.
Final Thoughts
Now embarking on a sacred Umrah trip is not just about performing tawaf, sai, and other rites. You can also visit many historical sites, including mosques. Muslims Holy Travel allows you to get your desired Umrah package that meticulously plans your trip. So, book your package today for a memorable Umrah trip, whenever you want