A Complete Guide to the Gates of Masjid Nabawi with Nearby Hotels

Masjid al-Nabawi (The Prophet’s Mosque) in Madinah is the second holiest site in Islam after Masjid al-Haram in Makkah. Built by Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) in 622 CE, it has grown over the centuries into a grand architectural masterpiece that welcomes millions of worshippers each year.

One of the most distinctive features of Masjid Nabawi is its gates. These gates not only provide easy access to different sections of the mosque but also hold historical and spiritual significance. Many gates are named after Islamic figures or events, while others are part of modern expansions by Saudi rulers. Knowing the layout of these gates and their surroundings helps pilgrims navigate the mosque more comfortably.

This guide explores key gates of Masjid Nabawi, their locations, nearby hotels in Madinah near Masjid Nabawi PBUH, and special women-only entrances to make your visit smoother and more meaningful.

Overview of Masjid Nabawi Gates

Masjid Nabawi currently has over 40 gates spread across its vast area, strategically placed to handle large crowds, especially during Hajj and Umrah seasons. Each gate is numbered and signposted in Arabic and English, often featuring wide marble walkways, escalators, and elevators for accessibility.

Some gates have deep historical roots, while others were added during modern expansions under Saudi kings. There are also dedicated gates for women with easy access to separate prayer areas, ensuring privacy and comfort for female worshippers.

Famous Gates of Masjid Nabawi and Nearby Hotels

1. Bab as-Salam (Gate of Peace)

Location: West side of the mosque

Nearby Areas: Close to the Rawdah (a sacred area between the Prophet’s tomb and pulpit)

Nearby Hotels:

Anwar Al Madinah Mövenpick Hotel – A premium hotel just a short walk away

Dar Al Taqwa Hotel – Famous for its close proximity and luxury services

Shaza Al Madina Hotel – Boutique-style luxury for pilgrims

Why it’s special:
Bab as-Salam is perhaps the most famous gate, historically used to enter and greet the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). Pilgrims visiting the Rawdah or paying respects at the Prophet’s resting place often choose this gate. Its beautiful arches and inscriptions make it a spiritual landmark for visitors.

2. Bab al-Baqi (Gate of Baqi)

Location: Eastern side, facing Jannat al-Baqi Cemetery

Nearby Hotels:

Frontel Al Harithia Hotel – Elegant and close to the eastern courtyard

Pullman Zamzam Madina – Luxurious stay with views of the mosque

Royal Inn Madinah – Great for families, a few steps away

Why it’s special:
This gate faces the historic Jannat al-Baqi cemetery, where many of the Prophet’s family members and companions are buried. Bab al-Baqi is ideal for those planning to visit this sacred site.

3. Bab Jibril (Gate of Gabriel)

Location: Eastern wall, near Bab al-Baqi

Nearby Hotels:

Dallah Taibah Hotel – A popular choice for pilgrims staying near the eastern side

Al Aqeeq Hotel – Comfortable accommodation with mosque access

Why it’s special:
Named after Angel Jibril (Gabriel), this gate holds great historical significance. It is believed Angel Jibril frequently entered through this gate to visit the Prophet (ﷺ). Its smaller size reflects the mosque’s early structure and history.

4. Bab al-Majeedi (King Abdul Majeed Gate)

Location: Northern side, close to King Abdul Majeed Road

Nearby Hotels:

Madinah Hilton – Just across from this gate

Dar Al Iman InterContinental – A luxurious choice near the northern plaza

Millennium Taiba Hotel – Affordable and close to Bab al-Majeedi

Why it’s special:
This is one of the mosque’s largest gates, designed to handle heavy traffic from the northern hotel zone. It’s perfect for pilgrims staying in Madinah’s modern northern district.

5. Bab al-Umrah

Location: Western side

Nearby Hotels:

Al Eiman Royal Hotel – Budget-friendly accommodation

Leader Al Muna Kareem Hotel – Well-situated for pilgrims

Why it’s special:
Bab al-Umrah is ideal for pilgrims arriving for Umrah due to its easy access to parking areas and transportation points.

6. Bab al-Malik Fahd (King Fahd Gate)

Location: Northern plaza

Nearby 5 star Hotels in Madinah:

Pullman Zamzam Madina – Luxurious with northern views

Dar Al Hijra InterContinental – Premium comfort

Coral Al Madinah Hotel – Excellent choice near King Fahd Gate

Why it’s special:
Built during King Fahd’s mosque expansion, this gate is known for its towering minarets and iconic design. It’s one of the busiest gates and a favorite entry for pilgrims staying in northern Madinah.

7. Bab al-Sultan Abdulaziz

Location: Southern side

Nearby Hotels:

Elaf Taiba Hotel – Affordable and family-friendly

Al Haram Hotel – Traditional style and close to the southern gate

Why it’s special:
Named after King Abdulaziz, this gate offers direct access to Madinah’s southern commercial district and is useful for pilgrims arriving from southern highways.

The Famous Ladies’ Gates

Masjid Nabawi offers designated gates for women to ensure privacy and comfort. The most famous ladies’ entrance is Bab Uthman ibn Affan and Bab Uthman ibn Ali, both located on the northern side. If staying around here you can choose any of the hotels near ladies gate for your accommodation. These gates provide direct access to women-only prayer halls, making it easier for female visitors to pray and access the mosque without overcrowding.

Ladies’ Gate Location: Northern side of Masjid Nabawi

Nearby Hotels for Women Pilgrims:

Dar Al Taqwa Hotel – Highly recommended for women due to its proximity

Madinah Hilton – Convenient for northern gates

Pullman Zamzam Madina – Excellent access for women’s entrances

Tip: Women should enter through these specific gates as security and staff are assigned to guide them to prayer halls, ensuring a comfortable and safe environment.

Gate Name	Gate Number/Location	Nearby Landmark	Recommended Nearby Hotels	Special Notes
Bab as-Salam (Gate of Peace)	West side of mosque	Rawdah, Prophet’s Tomb	Anwar Al Madinah Mövenpick, Dar Al Taqwa, Shaza Al Madina	Main entrance to greet Prophet (ﷺ)
Bab al-Baqi (Gate of Baqi)	East side, facing Jannat al-Baqi Cemetery	Jannat al-Baqi	Frontel Al Harithia, Pullman Zamzam Madina, Royal Inn Madinah	Ideal for cemetery visits
Bab Jibril (Gate of Gabriel)	East side, near Bab al-Baqi	Mihrab of the Prophet	Dallah Taibah, Al Aqeeq Hotel	Historic gate, Angel Jibril’s entry
Bab al-Majeedi	North side, near King Abdul Majeed Road	Northern hotel zone	Madinah Hilton, Dar Al Iman InterContinental, Millennium Taiba	Large gate, perfect for northern hotels
Bab al-Umrah	West side	Parking & transport hubs	Al Eiman Royal, Leader Al Muna Kareem	Popular with Umrah pilgrims
Bab al-Malik Fahd	North side plaza	Shopping malls & hotels	Pullman Zamzam Madina, Dar Al Hijra InterContinental, Coral Al Madinah	Tall minarets, easy northern access
Bab al-Sultan Abdulaziz	South side	Southern market area	Elaf Taiba, Al Haram Hotel	Access to southern commercial district
Ladies’ Gates	North side (Bab Uthman ibn Affan & Ali)	Women’s prayer halls	Dar Al Taqwa, Madinah Hilton, Pullman Zamzam Madina	Dedicated gates for female worshippers

Surroundings of Masjid Nabawi

Masjid Nabawi is located in Madinah’s vibrant city center, surrounded by pedestrian-only zones, wide plazas, and shopping districts. Here’s what you’ll find around the mosque:

North Side: Modern hotels, malls, and restaurants catering to international visitors.

East Side: Jannat al-Baqi cemetery and historic sites.

West Side: Souks, cafes, and bus stops for Umrah/Hajj transport.

South Side: Commercial streets and markets with traditional products.

The entire area is extremely organized, with shaded walkways, plenty of seating, and accessibility features for elderly and disabled visitors.

Tips for Pilgrims Visiting Masjid Nabawi

Know Your Gate: Learn which gate is closest to your hotel or intended prayer area.

Plan Visits to Rawdah: Use Bab as-Salam for visiting the Prophet’s tomb and Rawdah.

Women’s Entrances: Always use designated ladies’ gates for smoother access.

Stay Close: Book a hotel near your preferred gate to save time and energy.

Avoid Peak Times: Arrive early for Jumu’ah (Friday prayer) and Eid prayers to avoid congestion.

The gates of Masjid Nabawi are not just architectural features but spiritual markers of Islamic history. From Bab as-Salam, where pilgrims greet the Prophet (ﷺ), to Bab al-Baqi, facing the cemetery of his companions, each gate tells a story. With nearby hotels, modern facilities, and dedicated entrances for women, the mosque offers comfort and organization for millions of worshippers.

By familiarizing yourself with the gates and their surroundings, your visit to this blessed mosque can be both spiritually uplifting and practically convenient.

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