The Rawdah is a small, special place inside the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah. To enter, you need a free permit from the Nusuk app. There is no other way in.
This guide explains everything in simple steps. It is written for first-time visitors and people whose first language is not English.
What is the Rawdah and why do you need a permit?
Here are the basics you need to know:
- Cost: Free
- Where to get it: Nusuk app only
- Who needs one: Everyone who wants to pray inside the Rawdah
- Time inside: About 10 minutes
- Men and women: Different times and different gates
The Rawdah is the area between the Prophet’s tomb and his minbar (the place where he gave talks). It is a small space inside the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah.
Because the space is small and millions of people visit every year, the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah made a rule: you cannot enter without a permit.
If you do not have a permit, the guards will not let you in. Do not believe anyone who says they can get you in without one.
How to book your Rawdah permit on the Nusuk app
You can book your permit in about 5 minutes if you follow these steps. Do this before you travel to Madinah, not after you arrive.
Make sure your phone is connected to the internet and your battery has enough power.
Step 1: Download the Nusuk app
Open the App Store (iPhone) or Google Play Store (Android) on your phone. Search for “Nusuk” and download the free app.
The app works in many languages, including English, Urdu, Bahasa, French, and more. You can change the language in the app settings.
Step 2: Make an account
Open the app and tap “Sign Up” or “Register”. You will need your passport number and your Umrah visa number (or your Saudi residency number if you live in Saudi Arabia).
Type the numbers carefully. One small mistake and the app will not let you continue.
Step 3: Find the Rawdah service
On the home screen, tap “Prophet’s Mosque Services”. You will see two options: one for men and one for women.
Choose the right one for you. If you pick the wrong option, the permit will not work at the gate.
Step 4: Choose your date and time
The app will show a calendar. Green dates have free slots. Grey dates are full.
Tap a green date. Then choose a time that works for you. Each slot is about 30 minutes long.
Step 5: Save your permit
Tap “Issue Permit” or “Confirm”. The app will show you a QR code (a square black-and-white image).
Take a screenshot of the QR code. Save it in your phone. You will need it at the gate.
When to book and the rules you must know
The most important rule is simple: book before you arrive in Madinah. Slots fill up very fast — sometimes in seconds.
New slots usually open on Friday afternoons (Saudi time) for the coming week. Smaller batches also open every 30 minutes during the day. Check the app many times.
Men and women cannot enter at the same time. Each group has its own hours and its own gate.
- Men: Usually enter from late night to early morning. Use Gate 37
- Women: Usually enter in two windows — early morning and late night. Use Gate 25
The exact hours change. Always check the time on your permit in the app.
The rules for children are simple. Babies and very small children are not allowed inside the Rawdah.
Children aged 5 and above need their own permit. Book it through the Nusuk app, just like for an adult.
On the day of your visit: what to do
Plan to arrive at the Prophet’s Mosque 30 minutes before your time slot. The walk from the gate to the Rawdah can take time, and there are security checks.
Walk to the right gate: Gate 37 for men, Gate 25 for women. Show your QR code to the scanner. You will hear a beep when it works.
The staff may ask to see your passport. Stay calm and be polite. The whole check takes a few minutes.
You will have about 10 minutes inside to pray and make dua (supplication). The staff will tell you when to leave.
Move calmly. Do not push. Many people are praying around you. Wear modest clothing. Speak softly.
Common problems and how to fix them
Many first-time visitors face the same problems. Here is what to do when something goes wrong.
The app says no slots are available
Try again after a few hours. New slots open many times a day. Check the app on Friday afternoon (Saudi time) for the biggest batch.
Do not panic if you cannot get a slot right away. Keep trying.
You missed your slot
You cannot enter outside your time. You must book a new slot in the app.
This is why we tell you to come 30 minutes early. Traffic in Madinah can be slow, especially during peak Umrah season.
Your QR code does not scan
Make sure the screen is bright. Open the Nusuk app, do not just show a screenshot. The staff need to see the live permit in the app.
If it still does not work, show the staff your passport and they can help you.
You chose the wrong gender option
The permit will not work. Cancel and book again with the correct option.
Always double-check before you tap “Issue Permit.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Rawdah permit really free?
Yes. The permit is 100% free. Anyone asking you to pay for a Rawdah permit is not honest. The Nusuk app is the only official source.
Can I book the permit before I get my Umrah visa?
No. You need your Umrah visa number to make a Nusuk account. Book the permit as soon as your visa is ready.
What if I do not have a smartphone?
A family member can book and show the permit for you. The QR code can be shown on their phone. But everyone going inside still needs their own permit.
Can I take photos inside the Rawdah?
No. Photos and videos are not allowed inside. Keep your phone away. This is a place for prayer, not pictures.
Do I need to be on Umrah to visit?
No, but you must be Muslim. Umrah visa holders, tourist visa holders, Saudi residents, and GCC citizens can all book the permit on the Nusuk app.
How early should I arrive at the gate?
At least 30 minutes before your slot. Walking from the entrance to the Rawdah takes time, and there can be long queues.
Sources
- Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah — Permit to Visit Al-Rawdah Al-Sharifiyah for Men
- Saudi National Portal — Permit to visit Al-Rawdah Al-Sharifiyah for Men
- Nusuk — Official Saudi Pilgrim Services Platform
- Nusuk Umrah Platform — Ministry of Hajj and Umrah
- Gulf News — Saudi Arabia offers free Nusuk App access for pilgrims
- Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (Official) — Rawdah permit announcement
