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Quba Mosque
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Landmark
The Quba Mosque in Medina is the oldest mosque in the world and holds a position of paramount importance in Islamic history. Its foundation stone was laid in 622 AD by the Prophet Muhammad personally, shortly after his migration (Hijra) from Makkah to Medina. Over the centuries, the structure has undergone numerous renovations and expansions, with the most significant modernization occurring in the late 20th century under King Fahd. The current architectural design blends contemporary construction techniques with traditional Islamic motifs, featuring four prominent minarets and 56 domes. The facility can accommodate over 20,000 worshippers and remains a primary destination for pilgrims visiting the holy city. Religiously, the mosque is highly significant as performing prayers here is believed to carry a special spiritual reward. The surrounding area is characterized by date palm groves, preserving the historical atmosphere of the ancient oasis city.
- Location: Saudi Arabia
- Top sights: Maqsad Quba · Miqat Dhul Hulaifah · QUBA Mosque
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Nov.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 16 | 18 | 22 | 26 | 31 | 34 | 34 | 35 | 33 | 29 | 22 | 18 |
| Rain mm | 4 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 1 | 6 | 3 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The brilliant white Quba Mosque is typically open to visitors outside prayer times. Non-Muslim visitors are usually welcome if they follow the dress code.
Typical hours
The mosque is open daily, with short closures for the five daily prayers. Best visited late morning or early afternoon.
Photography
Photography is usually allowed outdoors and in the prayer halls if you are considerate of worshippers. Avoid using flash indoors.
Time needed
Allow about 30 minutes to an hour for the mosque and its lovely gardens. Those wanting to study the architecture in detail will need longer.
Combine with
Combine Quba Mosque with a visit to the Prophet's Mosque and the historic Medina market. The nearby Quba Mountains also invite a hike.
Getting there
Quba Mosque is about five kilometers south of the Prophet's Mosque, reachable by taxi, bus, or walking along a busy road. Many pilgrims use free buses.
Insider tip
Bring a head covering and wear long clothing to respect religious norms. A late afternoon visit provides beautiful light for photos.
Geography
Facts
- The mosque was originally founded in 622 AD, the first year of the Hijri calendar.
- The Prophet Muhammad personally laid the first stones of the foundation.
- The current modern structure features a total of 56 domes.
- There are four minarets, each reaching a height of 47 meters.
- The total capacity of the mosque exceeds 20,000 worshippers.
- Performing two units of prayer here is religiously equivalent to one Umrah.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Quba Mosque (4)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
When was it built?
It is considered the first mosque of Islam, with foundations laid by the prophet.
Is the visit permitted for tourists?
Medina is accessible only to Muslims, so this applies to the Quba Mosque too.
When is the best time for prayer?
Any prayer time is suitable, but early in the morning it is very quiet.
Is there an outdoor area?
Yes, the mosque features beautiful courtyards and shaded arcades.
Is special clothing required?
Yes, modest and covering clothing is mandatory for all visitors.
Quba Mosque: where is it located?
Quba Mosque is located in Saudi Arabia.
Quba Mosque: what is there to see?
Highlights include Maqsad Quba, Miqat Dhul Hulaifah, QUBA Mosque.
Quba Mosque: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Nov.
Quba Mosque: why is it worth visiting?
The Quba Mosque in Medina is the oldest mosque in the world and holds a position of paramount importance in Islamic history.
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