In this guide you will find the history and significance of Jannat al-Baqi, where it is and how far it is from the Haram, the best time to visit, simple etiquette, practical tips and how to get there comfortably with a private Zikr Cabs car. It is part of our Madinah Ziyarat Guide.

History and significance of Jannat al-Baqi

The Prophet ﷺ used to go out to al-Baqi at night and pray for its people. Sahih Muslim records the words he taught for greeting them: “Peace be upon you, people of the dwellings, believers and Muslims. We will, if Allah wills, join you. We ask Allah for well-being for us and for you.”

Among those buried in al-Baqi, according to historians, are the third caliph Uthman ibn Affan, many of the wives of the Prophet ﷺ, his daughters, his son Ibrahim, his uncle al-Abbas, his grandson al-Hasan ibn Ali, and a great number of companions and later scholars. Many historians also hold that Fatimah (may Allah be pleased with her) is buried here, although there are different views on the exact location.

Over the centuries, domes and structures were built over some graves. These were removed in the early twentieth century, and today the cemetery has simple, levelled graves. It is still used for burials.

Where is Jannat al-Baqi? Location and distance

Jannat al-Baqi is directly to the south-east of Al-Masjid an-Nabawi and can be reached on foot from the mosque’s eastern courtyard in a few minutes.

Distances and travel times are approximate and depend on your hotel, the route and traffic, especially in Ramadan and the Hajj season.

Best time to visit and etiquette

The cemetery is usually opened for male visitors for a period after Fajr and after Asr, although times can change. Early morning is the calmest time.

Greet the people of the graves with the words the Prophet ﷺ taught, make du’a for them and remember the hereafter. Do not walk on graves, wipe them for blessing or call upon the dead. Women are generally not admitted inside, but they can make du’a from outside the walls; please follow the rules at the gate.

As with all ziyarat, it helps to keep the right intention. Visiting historical places is not part of the rites of Umrah or Hajj. It is a chance to learn, to reflect on the lives of the Prophet ﷺ and his companions, and to make du’a. Scholars remind us not to seek blessing from rocks, walls or soil, and to follow the Sunnah in what we say and do. Religious rulings can differ between schools of thought, so ask a qualified scholar about your own situation.

Combining Jannat al-Baqi with other ziyarat

Most pilgrims visit Jannat al-Baqi as part of a wider tour rather than on its own. Nearby places that fit well on the same trip include Riyadh ul Jannah (Rawdah), Masjid al-Ghamama, Masjid Quba, Jabal Uhud & the Martyrs of Uhud and Masjid al-Jumu’ah. Each has its own guide, linked at the end of this page. A good plan is to choose three or four places for one morning, starting with the one that needs the most walking while it is still cool, and to leave time for rest and prayer. If you only have one free morning, our suggested route in the Madinah Ziyarat Guide shows a practical order that avoids driving back and forth across the city.

Visiting Jannat al-Baqi with family, children and elderly pilgrims

Ziyarat with family is a special memory, but it is easy to try to do too much. Keep the day short and gentle: plan around prayer times, take water and light snacks, and let anyone who is tired rest in the air-conditioned car while others step out. For wheelchair users, ask your driver to stop as close as the rules allow, and remember that some paths and steps are not suitable for wheelchairs. Teach children a short story about each place before you arrive, so the visit becomes a lesson they remember. Above all, keep the visit calm and respectful, as others around you may be in quiet prayer or reflection.

Practical tips for your visit

• Because it is next to the mosque, you can walk; no taxi is needed.
• Check the opening times at the gate, as they change in Ramadan and Hajj season.
• Keep your visit brief and quiet, and photography of graves is discouraged.
• Combine it with the Rawdah and Masjid al-Ghamama near the Haram.
• Dress modestly and carry water, especially from May to September, when temperatures can pass 45°C.
• Keep your ID and the Nusuk app with you, as some areas have checkpoints, and access rules can change, so follow the instructions of officials on site.

How to get to Jannat al-Baqi with Zikr Cabs

The easiest way to visit Jannat al-Baqi is with a private car that waits for you. With Zikr Cabs, your driver collects you from your hotel, takes you to Jannat al-Baqi and other nearby sites at your own pace, and brings you back in time for prayer. You never have to bargain with street taxis or wait for a crowded bus.

Jannat al-Baqi is included in our Madinah Ziyarat taxi tour, which starts from SAR 190 for a sedan. Fares are fixed per vehicle, not per person, and larger cars such as the GMC Yukon, Hyundai H1/Staria, Toyota Hiace and Coaster are available for families and groups. See all vehicles and prices on our routes and prices page. * Rates exclude VAT.

Frequently asked questions about Jannat al-Baqi

Nearby ziyarats

• Riyadh ul Jannah (Rawdah)
• Masjid al-Ghamama
• Masjid Quba
• Jabal Uhud & the Martyrs of Uhud
• Masjid al-Jumu’ah

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Sources and further reading

• Sahih Muslim 974 (greeting the people of al-Baqi)
• Encyclopaedia Britannica – Medina
• Nusuk – official platform for Umrah, Hajj and Rawdah

This guide is general information for pilgrims. Official rules on permits and access change often; please check Nusuk and the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah before you travel.

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