RIYAZUL JANNAH · MASJID NABAWI · MADINAH

Rawdah Madina — Complete Permit & Booking Guide

Everything you need to book your Rawdah permit via Nusuk or Tawakalna — step by step, with troubleshooting for when slots are not available.

Free to visit — no fee required

What you will learn in this guide

  • Which app to use: Nusuk vs Tawakalna — and who each is for
  • Step-by-step booking instructions for both apps
  • The foundational hadith from Sahih al-Bukhari with full context and scholarly explanation
  • What to do when no slots are available
  • The 45-day rule and how it affects repeat visits
  • Women-specific timings and entry gate information
  • Rules, dress code, and what to bring on the day
  • Answers to the most common questions pilgrims ask

Related pages on this site

  • Need more understanding of Rawdah al-Sharifah? Read: What is Rawdah Madina — Riyazul Jannah Explained
  • Planning your spiritual visit? Read: What to Pray in the Rawdah — Duas & Spiritual Guide

What is the Rawdah? A Brief Overview

The Rawdah al-Sharifah — also known as Riyazul Jannah, meaning the Garden of Paradise — is a sacred area inside Masjid Nabawi (the Prophet’s Mosque) in Madinah, Saudi Arabia. It is the space that lies between the house of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ (which is now his blessed grave) and his noble pulpit (Minbar).

“What is between my house and my pulpit is a garden from the gardens of Paradise, and my pulpit is upon my fountain (Hawd).”

— Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 1196 — narrated by Abu Hurairah (RA)

Praying inside this blessed area is considered one of the greatest spiritual acts a Muslim can perform. Due to the immense number of pilgrims visiting Madinah every year, the Saudi authorities now require all visitors to book a permit in advance through official government apps.

Nusuk vs Tawakalna — Which App Should You Use?

There are two official Saudi government apps through which you can book your Rawdah permit. Both access the same permit system and give you the same access — the difference is simply who each app is designed for.

Boundary

What marks it

Nusuk App

Pilgrims who entered Saudi Arabia on a Hajj or Umrah visa. This is the primary app for international pilgrims visiting specifically for Hajj or Umrah.

Tawakalna App

It works if Nusuk App is not working. Saudi residents, GCC nationals, and visitors on tourist, family, or business visas. Also used by those with a Saudi Iqama (residency permit).

Important — both apps give the same permit

  • You do NOT need to use both apps. Choose ONE based on your visa type.
  • The slot you receive is identical regardless of which app you book through.
  • If Nusuk shows no available slots, try checking Tawakalna as they sometimes update at slightly different times.
  • Your permit is tied to your passport or ID number — you cannot transfer it to another person.

How to Book Your Rawdah Permit on Nusuk

The Rawdah is located in the southeastern section of Masjid Nabawi — the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah al-Munawwarah, Saudi Arabia. It is immediately identifiable by its distinctive green carpet, which contrasts with the red carpet covering the rest of the mosque floor.

Step 1 — Download and set up the Nusuk app

Download the Nusuk app from the Google Play Store (Android) or Apple App Store (iOS). Search for ‘Nusuk’ — it is a free app published by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. Create an account using your passport number and the mobile number associated with your visa.

Step 2 — Navigate to the Rawdah section

Once logged in, tap on ‘Services’ from the bottom menu. Scroll until you find the section titled ‘Praying in the Noble Rawdah’ or ‘Visit the Prophet’s Mosque’. Tap on it to open the booking calendar.

Step 3 — Select your date and time slot

The calendar will show available dates. Green dates have open slots — grey dates are either fully booked or not yet released. Select a date and then choose your preferred time slot from the options shown. Slots are typically 15 to 20 minutes in duration.

Step 4 — Confirm your booking

Review your booking details — date, time, entry gate, and permit holder name. Tap Confirm. You will receive a QR code permit on screen and via email. Screenshot and save this QR code to your phone — you will need it at the gate.

Step 5 — On the day of your visit

Arrive at the specified gate (shown on your permit) 10 to 15 minutes before your slot time. Show your QR code to the security guard. You will be guided inside the Rawdah area for your allocated time.

How to Book Your Rawdah Permit on Tawakalna

The first Minbar was built around 7 AH at the request of the Prophet ﷺ. A craftsman built a three-step wooden platform from tamarisk wood. Before this, the Prophet ﷺ would lean against a palm trunk (al-Hannana — the moaning trunk) while delivering the khutbah. When the Minbar was placed and the Prophet ﷺ stood upon it, the trunk reportedly emitted a sound of weeping — a miracle attested to by over twenty companions.

  • Download Tawakalna from Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Sign in using your Saudi Absher account, Iqama number, or national ID.
  • From the home screen, tap on ‘Services’ then select ‘Masjid al-Nabawi’ or ‘Rawdah Permit’.
  • The booking calendar will open. Select an available date (shown in green or blue).
  • Choose your preferred time slot and tap Confirm.
  • Save the QR code permit to your phone. Show it at the Rawdah entry gate on the day of your visit.

Tawakalna dates showing as greyed out?

  • Greyed out dates mean no slots are available yet — they will activate when new slots are released.
  • New slots are released every Thursday and Friday, usually around Fajr time in Madinah (UTC+3).
  • Greyed out can also mean you are within the 45-day waiting period from a previous Rawdah visit.
  • Make sure your ID or Iqama in the app is up to date and matches your entry documents.

Rawdah Slots Not Available — What to Do

This is the most common frustration for pilgrims. Here is a complete explanation of why slots may not be showing and exactly what to do about it:

Why slots are not showing

  • Slots are released in batches — typically every Thursday and Friday morning around Fajr time in Madinah. If you are checking outside of this window, new dates may not have appeared yet.
  • Slots are only available 1 to 2 weeks in advance. Searching for dates more than 14 days ahead will almost always show nothing.
  • During Ramadan and Hajj season, slots fill within minutes of being released. The demand is extremely high and the system moves fast.
  • You may be within the 45-day restriction period from a previous Rawdah visit. The system will block new bookings until this period has passed.
  • Your visa or ID may not be verified in the app yet. Make sure your profile is complete and your passport or Iqama is confirmed.

What to do when slots are not available

  • Check the app at Fajr time on Thursday and Friday mornings — this is when new slots are most likely to appear.
  • Set a daily reminder to check the app in the morning, as slots sometimes appear mid-week without announcement.
  • If Nusuk shows nothing, open Tawakalna and check — the two apps can update at slightly different times.
  • Make sure you are not searching too far ahead. Stay within the next 10 to 14 days in the calendar.
  • During Ramadan or Hajj season, be ready to book the moment new slots appear — have the app open and your details ready.
  • If all else fails, speak to your Umrah package tour operator — group permits are sometimes available through official channels.

Rawdah Visiting Timings for Men and Women

The Rawdah has separate visiting times for men and women to manage the large number of pilgrims. These timings can change during Ramadan and Hajj season — always check your permit for the confirmed time.

Men’s visiting timings

Day

Timing

Saturday – Thursday

After Fajr prayer until 9:00 AM

Saturday – Thursday

After Isha prayer until 2:00 AM

Friday

2:00 AM – Fajr prayer

Friday

After Jumu’ah prayer until evening

Entry gates

Gate 37 or Gate 1 (King Abdul Aziz Gate)

Women’s visiting timings

Day

Timing

Saturday – Thursday

2:00 AM – Fajr prayer

Saturday – Thursday

9:20 AM – 11:20 AM

Friday

After Fajr prayer until 9:00 AM

Entry gates

Gate 25 or Gate 37

Best time to visit for a calmer experience

  • For men: the post-Fajr slot (just after dawn) tends to be quieter than the evening slot.
  • For women: the early morning slot (2 AM – Fajr) is typically the least crowded.
  • Avoid Fridays if possible — footfall is highest after Jumu’ah prayer.
  • Weekday slots (Sunday to Wednesday) are generally less crowded than weekends.

Rules, Dress Code and Etiquette Inside the Rawdah

What to bring

  • Your Nusuk or Tawakalna QR code permit — digital on your phone is fine
  • Your passport or ID matching the permit
  • A written or memorised list of duas — time inside is limited to 15 to 20 minutes
  • Wudhu (ablution) done before you arrive — there are facilities nearby

Dress code

  • Men: thobe, shalwar kameez, or trousers with a modest top. Ihram garments are welcome but not required.
  • Women: full abaya and hijab. Faces do not need to be covered but modest dress is required.
  • Avoid strong perfume — it can disturb other worshippers in a crowded space.

Inside the Rawdah — behaviour

  • No photography or video recording inside the Rawdah area.
  • Maintain a low voice — whisper your duas rather than speaking aloud.
  • Do not push or rush. Guards will guide you through — trust the process.
  • Mobile phones should be on silent. Avoid speaking on calls inside.
  • Wheelchair users and elderly pilgrims are accommodated — inform a guard if you need assistance.
  • Children under 10 may enter with a parent holding a valid permit. Older children require their own permit.
  • You will have 15 to 20 minutes inside. Prepare your duas before you enter.

What to Recite and Pray Inside the Rawdah

The time inside the Rawdah is precious and brief. Preparation is everything. Here is a suggested sequence to make the most of your 15 to 20 minutes:

  • Begin with Salawat upon the Prophet ﷺ — send blessings and peace upon him as soon as you step onto the green carpet.
  • Offer two rakah of nafl (voluntary) prayer if space allows. Praying inside Riyazul Jannah carries immense reward.
  • Make your personal duas in any language. This is a place where duas are especially heard — ask sincerely for forgiveness, health, guidance, and the wellbeing of your family.
  • Recite Surah al-Fatiha and send Salawat again before you leave.

“Make dua with certainty that Allah will answer, and know that Allah does not answer the dua of a heart that is heedless and distracted.”

— Tirmidhi, Hadith 3479

Write down your duas before you enter. When you are standing on the blessed green carpet, emotions run high and it is easy to forget. A prepared list ensures you leave without regret.

Rawdah Permit — Common Questions Answered

A: Yes — completely free. There is no charge to book or enter the Rawdah. Both the Nusuk and Tawakalna apps are free to download and use. Anyone charging you for a Rawdah permit is not operating through official channels.

A: If you are in Madinah for multiple days, you can get multiple visits to Rawdah Sharifa. To book an appointment, you need to be around Rawdah and check Nusuk App. You will see an instant track in your app to book your visit and can book multiple visits. Alternatively, you can download and register Tawakalna App for more visits.

A: Children under approximately 10 years of age may enter with a parent who holds a valid permit. Each adult with a permit may bring one young child. Older children (above 10) are required to hold their own permit booked under their own ID or passport.

A: New slots are typically released on Thursday and Friday mornings, usually around Fajr time in Madinah (which is UTC+3). There is no fixed official announcement — the best strategy is to check the app early on Thursday and Friday mornings. Also, arrive at Rawdah during your time and keep checking through instant track.

A: Yes, Saudi residents can use Nusuk if they also have a Hajj or Umrah visa. However, for Saudi residents with an Iqama, Tawakalna is the more straightforward option as it integrates directly with your Absher account and Saudi ID.

A: Unfortunately, missed slots are generally not recoverable. The permit is time-specific and non-transferable. You would need to wait out for next appointment before next visit, and keep checking if empty slots appear in the app.

A: No — the Rawdah closes during the five daily prayer times so that the general congregation can use the main mosque area. Your booked slot will always fall outside of prayer times. Check your permit for the exact entry window.

A: Women can only enter during the designated women-only timings listed on their permit. Even with a valid permit, women cannot enter during men-only slots. The permit itself will always be issued for a women-specific time window.