Praying in Rawdah Sharif the sacred area between the Prophet's ﷺ pulpit (minbar) and his noble chamber is one of the most spiritually meaningful experiences a Muslim can have. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: "Between my house and my pulpit there is a garden from the gardens of Paradise" (Bukhari & Muslim).

For pilgrims visiting Madinah during Hajj or Umrah, securing a Rawdah permit through the Nusuk app is essential. This comprehensive guide walks you through the entire booking process, shares insider tips for success, and covers the important dos and don'ts to ensure a smooth, spiritually fulfilling experience.

Understanding Rawdah: Why It's So Special

Rawdah Sharif (الروضة الشريفة) is approximately 22 by 15 meters of blessed space in Masjid al-Nabawi. It's distinguished by green carpet, while the rest of the mosque has red carpet. This sacred garden is where:

• Prayers are especially accepted
• Duas are answered
• The reward is immense
• Spiritual connection feels closest

Because of limited space and millions of visitors annually, Saudi authorities regulate access through a permit system managed by the Nusuk platform.

The Nusuk Rawdah Booking System

What You Need to Know Before Booking

Booking Window: Rawdah permits typically become available 7-14 days before your desired visit date, though this can vary

Time Slots: Multiple time slots throughout the day, usually in 30-45 minute sessions

Separate Sessions: Men and women have designated separate times

High Demand: Permits are released in limited numbers and book up within minutes

Free of Charge: Rawdah permits are completely free through the official Nusuk app

Step-by-Step: How to Book Rawdah on Nusuk

Prerequisites

Before you can book Rawdah, ensure you have:

1. Downloaded the Nusuk App (iOS or Android)
2. Created an account with verified personal information
3. Valid Hajj or Umrah visa (or Saudi residency/visit visa)
4. Passport details uploaded and verified
5. Location services enabled on your phone
6. Stable internet connection

The Booking Process

1 Open the Nusuk App

• Launch the app and ensure you're logged in
• Allow location permissions if prompted

2 Navigate to Rawdah Section

• From the home screen, look for "Services" or "Visit Rawdah"
• Some versions show it as "Masjid al-Nabawi Visits"
• Tap on "Book a Visit to Rawdah"

3 Check Available Dates

• The calendar will display dates with available permits (usually shown in green or with a checkmark)
• Gray or unavailable dates mean permits haven't been released yet or are fully booked
• Permits typically open 7-14 days in advance

4 Select Your Preferred Time Slot

• Choose your date, then browse available time slots
• Times are shown in local Madinah time (Arabia Standard Time)
• Consider prayer times many prefer slots right after Fajr or between Maghrib and Isha
• Women's and men's slots are separate

5 Select Number of People

• You can book for yourself and accompanying family members
• All individuals must have their information in your Nusuk account
• Each person needs their own valid visa/permit

6 Review and Confirm

• Double check the date, time, and number of people
• Read any special instructions provided
• Click "Confirm Booking"

7 Receive Confirmation

• You'll get an instant confirmation if successful
• A QR code permit will appear in your app under "My Bookings"
• Screenshot or download the permit for backup
• You may also receive SMS confirmation

What to Do If Permits Are Fully Booked

Keep Checking: Cancellations happen. Check the app multiple times daily, especially early morning and late night

Set Reminders: When new dates open (usually 7-14 days out), be ready immediately

Be Flexible: If your preferred time is unavailable, choose any available slot. Being in Rawdah matters more than the specific time

Try Off-Peak Times: Mid-day slots and weekday sessions may have more availability

Have Backup Dates: Plan multiple potential visit dates during your Madinah stay

Important Dos and Don'ts

DOs: Best Practices for Rawdah Visits

DON'Ts: Common Mistakes to Avoid

Pro Tips for Successful Rawdah Booking

Timing Strategy

Book Immediately When Slots Open

• Permits for new dates typically release around midnight or early morning (Madinah time)
• Set an alarm and be ready with app open

Try During Less Popular Times

• Late night slots often have more availability
• Mid-week (Tuesday, Wednesday) may be less competitive than weekends

Book Early in Your Madinah Stay

• If staying multiple days, book for your first available opportunity
• This gives you backup chances if something goes wrong

Technical Tips

Ensure Strong Internet Connection

• Use WiFi if possible, or strong 4G/5G
• Slow connections mean missed opportunities during high-demand releases

Keep App Updated

• Check for updates before your trip
• Outdated versions may have booking issues

Have Alternative Device Ready

• If your phone fails, a traveling companion's device can help
• Ensure your Nusuk account works on multiple devices

Clear App Cache if Having Issues

• Sometimes clears up booking glitches
• Log out and back in

Spiritual Preparation

Make Dua Before Booking

• Ask Allah to facilitate your entry to Rawdah
• Have sincere intention

Prepare Your Heart

• This isn't just about "checking off" a religious site
• Approach with humility and spiritual readiness

Study the Etiquettes

• Learn about the Prophet's ﷺ life in Madinah
• Understand the significance of where you'll be standing

What to Expect During Your Rawdah Visit

Entry Process

1. Arrive at designated gate 15-20 minutes early
2. Show QR code to security personnel
3. Pass through security screening (metal detectors)
4. Follow volunteer guidance to Rawdah area
5. Enter the green-carpeted area when directed

Inside Rawdah

• Limited space: You'll likely be standing shoulder-to-shoulder with others during peak times
• Guided movement: Volunteers help manage flow to ensure everyone gets time in the blessed area
• Time pressure: The session is short focus on quality prayers and duas
• Peaceful atmosphere: Despite crowds, there's profound spiritual serenity
• Emotional experience: Many visitors feel overwhelming emotion and connection

Exit Process

• Follow directional flow as guided by volunteers
• Exit through designated gates
• Don't attempt to re-enter once you've left
• Keep permit accessible until fully outside the mosque

Special Considerations

For Families with Children

• Children can be added to permits if they're in your Nusuk account
• Consider whether young children can handle the crowd and time constraints
• Very young children might be better served visiting Masjid al-Nabawi during regular, unrestricted hours
• Some families prefer parents to visit separately with older children

For Elderly or Disabled Visitors

• Wheelchair access is available through designated gates
• Inform volunteers upon entry for special accommodation
• Consider booking less crowded time slots
• Companion permits may be available for those needing assistance

For Women

• Women's sessions are completely separate from men's
• Modest dress is strictly enforced
• Mahram (male guardian) is not required for Rawdah visits
• Women often report more spacious, calmer experiences than men's sessions

During Hajj vs. Umrah Seasons

• Hajj season: Extremely high demand, book as far in advance as possible
• Ramadan: Very competitive booking, especially last 10 nights
• Off-season Umrah: Relatively easier to secure permits
• Regular visits (non-pilgrims): Local residents and visitors with regular visas can also book

Troubleshooting Common Issues

"No Available Permits" Message

Solution: Check back frequently. Cancellations create openings. Try different dates/times. Be patient and persistent.

QR Code Not Displaying

Solution: Restart app. Check internet connection. Ensure booking was confirmed. Contact Nusuk support through app.

Booking Confirmation Not Received

Solution: Check "My Bookings" section in app. Verify email/SMS settings. Screenshot any confirmation screens. Contact support if issue persists.

Can't Add Family Members

Solution: Ensure all family members have complete profiles in your Nusuk account with verified documents. Each person needs valid visa/entry permit.

Missed Your Time Slot

Solution: Unfortunately, permits cannot be rescheduled or reused. You'll need to book a new slot for another day. Arrive early next time.

After Your Rawdah Visit

Continue the Spiritual Connection

• Maintain prayers and duas you committed to in Rawdah
• Share your experience with family and inspire others
• Keep Madinah in your heart long after you've left
• Make dua for another opportunity to return

Express Gratitude

• Thank Allah for the blessing of visiting Rawdah
• Pray for those who couldn't make it
• Help others prepare for their visits by sharing knowledge

Final Thoughts

Visiting Rawdah Sharif is a profound spiritual privilege that requires both practical preparation and heartfelt intention. While the booking process through Nusuk may seem technical and competitive, remember that Allah controls all outcomes. Make your best effort, use these tips, and trust in His plan.

The few minutes you spend in that blessed garden can become among the most transformative moments of your life. Approach the experience with humility, sincerity, and deep reverence. Whether you're making dua for guidance, seeking forgiveness, or simply standing in awe of being in such proximity to where the Prophet ﷺ lived and taught, let your heart be fully present.

May Allah accept your prayers in Rawdah, grant you a spiritually enriching visit to Madinah, and allow you to return to the sacred places again and again. Ameen.

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Last Updated: January 2026 | Note: Nusuk policies and procedures may change. Always verify current requirements through the official Nusuk app and website.