In this guide you will find the history and significance of Jannat al-Mu’alla, 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 Makkah Ziyarat Guide.

History and significance of Jannat al-Mu’alla

Khadijah (may Allah be pleased with her) was the first person to believe in the Prophet ﷺ and supported him with her wealth and love through the hardest years in Makkah. She died around 619 CE, in the year that came to be known as the Year of Sorrow, and was buried at al-Mu’alla. The Prophet ﷺ continued to remember her with deep love for the rest of his life.

Historians also record that several of the Prophet’s relatives are buried here, including his grandfather Abdul Muttalib and his uncle Abu Talib, as well as many early Muslims and later scholars. His infant son al-Qasim is also reported to be buried here.

Over time, many grave structures were removed and the graves were levelled, in line with the view that graves should be simple. Today the cemetery is a large walled area that is still used for burials.

Where is Jannat al-Mu’alla? Location and distance

Jannat al-Mu’alla is on al-Hajun Road, roughly 1–1.5 km north of Masjid al-Haram. It is a 5–10 minute drive, or a walk of about 20 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

Visiting hours and access can vary, and gates are often opened after Fajr and after Asr. Visits are usually brief and calm in the early morning.

When visiting graves, the Sunnah is to greet the people of the graves with salam and to make du’a for them and for yourself. Scholars hold different views on women visiting graves, and access for women may be limited, so follow the rules at the gate. Do not walk on graves, raise your voice or seek anything from the dead; du’a is made to Allah alone.

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-Mu’alla with other ziyarat

Most pilgrims visit Jannat al-Mu’alla as part of a wider tour rather than on its own. Nearby places that fit well on the same trip include Jabal al-Nour & Ghar Hira, Masjid Aisha (Tan’eem), Masjid Ji’ranah, Mina, Masjid al-Jinn and The Prophet’s Birthplace (Makkah Library). 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 Makkah Ziyarat Guide shows a practical order that avoids driving back and forth across the city.

Visiting Jannat al-Mu’alla 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

• Check access times locally, as they change in Ramadan and during Hajj.
• Dress modestly and keep phones on silent.
• Photography of graves is discouraged.
• Combine the visit with Jabal al-Nour, which is on the same side of the city.
• 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-Mu’alla with Zikr Cabs

The easiest way to visit Jannat al-Mu’alla is with a private car that waits for you. With Zikr Cabs, your driver collects you from your hotel, takes you to Jannat al-Mu’alla 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-Mu’alla is included in our Makkah Ziyarat taxi tour, which starts from SAR 200 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-Mu’alla

Nearby ziyarats

• Jabal al-Nour & Ghar Hira
• Masjid Aisha (Tan’eem)
• Masjid Ji’ranah
• Mina
• Masjid al-Jinn
• The Prophet’s Birthplace (Makkah Library)

← Back to the Makkah Ziyarat Guide

Sources and further reading

• Sahih Muslim 974 (greeting the people of the graves)
• Encyclopaedia Britannica – Khadijah
• 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.

Book on WhatsApp