Masjid Aisha (Masjid al-Tan’eem): The Nearest Miqat in Makkah

Masjid Aisha, also called Masjid al-Tan’eem, is the place most pilgrims go when they are already in Makkah and wish to perform another Umrah. Because it lies just outside the boundary of the Haram, people enter ihram here before returning to Masjid al-Haram for tawaf and sa’i.

In this guide you will find the history and significance of Masjid Aisha (Tan’eem), 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 Masjid Aisha (Tan’eem)

The mosque is named after the Mother of the Believers, Aisha bint Abi Bakr (may Allah be pleased with her). During the Farewell Hajj, she was unable to perform Umrah before Hajj. Afterwards, the Prophet ﷺ instructed her brother, Abdul Rahman ibn Abi Bakr, to take her to Tan’eem so she could enter ihram and perform Umrah. This is reported in Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim.

From this hadith, scholars took the ruling that a person inside Makkah who wants to perform Umrah should go out to the nearest point outside the Haram boundary (al-hill) to enter ihram. Tan’eem is the closest such point to Masjid al-Haram, which is why it is so popular. Scholars hold different views on how often one should perform repeated Umrahs, so pilgrims may wish to ask a trusted scholar.

The present mosque is large and modern, with washrooms, wudu areas and space for men and women to change and pray.

Where is Masjid Aisha (Tan’eem)? Location and distance

Masjid Aisha is in the Tan’eem district, about 7–8 km north-west of Masjid al-Haram on the road towards Madinah. By car it takes about 15–25 minutes each way, longer at busy times.

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

Mornings after Fajr and mid-morning are usually quickest. Traffic is heavier after Isha and throughout Ramadan.

Men may put on the ihram garments at their hotel and make the intention (niyyah) at the mosque. Women wear their normal modest clothing. Pray two rak’ahs if you wish, make your intention, and begin the Talbiyah.

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 Masjid Aisha (Tan’eem) with other ziyarat

Most pilgrims visit Masjid Aisha (Tan’eem) as part of a wider tour rather than on its own. Nearby places that fit well on the same trip include Masjid Ji’ranah, Jannat al-Mu’alla, Jabal al-Nour & Ghar Hira and Hunayn and Masjid al-Ji’ranah. 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 Masjid Aisha (Tan’eem) 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

  • Bring a small bag for your shoes and belongings.
  • Washrooms are available, but they can be busy at peak times.
  • Book a return taxi so the driver waits while you enter ihram.
  • Read our blog guide to the miqat for Umrah for more detail.
  • 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 Masjid Aisha (Tan’eem) with Zikr Cabs

The easiest way to visit Masjid Aisha (Tan’eem) is with a private car that waits for you. With Zikr Cabs, your driver collects you from your hotel, takes you to Masjid Aisha (Tan’eem) 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.

Masjid Aisha (Tan’eem) 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 Masjid Aisha (Tan’eem)

Why is it called Masjid Aisha?

Because Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) entered ihram for Umrah from Tan’eem on the instruction of the Prophet ﷺ.

Can women enter ihram at Masjid Aisha?

Yes. It is the most common miqat for both men and women who are already in Makkah.

How far is Masjid Aisha from the Haram?

About 7–8 km, usually 15–25 minutes by car.

Can I change into ihram at the mosque?

Yes, there are washrooms and changing areas, although many pilgrims prefer to change at the hotel.

Does Zikr Cabs offer a return trip?

Yes. A Masjid Aisha (Miqat) round trip from your Makkah hotel starts from SAR 120 for a sedan, and the Makkah Mazarat with Masjid Aisha tour starts from SAR 200.

Nearby ziyarats

Related reading

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Sources and further reading

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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