Masjid al-Khayf: The Mosque of Mina
Masjid al-Khayf is the great mosque of Mina, standing at the foot of a mountain on the southern side of the valley, close to the smallest of the Jamarat. During the days of Hajj it is filled with pilgrims, and the Prophet ﷺ himself prayed in this place during his Farewell Hajj.
In this guide you will find the history and significance of Masjid al-Khayf, 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 al-Khayf
The word khayf refers to ground that is higher than a valley floor and lower than a mountain. That describes the mosque’s position on the slope of the Mina valley. Hadith collections record that the Prophet ﷺ prayed in the area of Masjid al-Khayf and delivered advice to the people there during his Hajj.
Some narrations state that many earlier prophets prayed at this place. Scholars have discussed the strength of these reports, so it is wise to mention them as traditions rather than certain facts. The mosque has been rebuilt and expanded several times through history. Its current form, with four minarets and a large air-conditioned prayer hall, dates from a major Saudi expansion in the late twentieth century.
During the days of Tashreeq, many pilgrims try to pray at least one prayer in Masjid al-Khayf, following the example of the Prophet ﷺ.
Where is Masjid al-Khayf? Location and distance
The mosque is in Mina, near the small Jamrah (al-Jamrah al-Sughra), about 5–7 km east of Masjid al-Haram.
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
Outside the Hajj season the mosque may be closed except at prayer times, but you can see it from outside. Visit in the morning or late afternoon.
If the mosque is open, you may pray two rak’ahs of tahiyyat al-masjid. Respect any closures or security instructions, as Mina is a controlled area around Hajj.
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 al-Khayf with other ziyarat
Most pilgrims visit Masjid al-Khayf as part of a wider tour rather than on its own. Nearby places that fit well on the same trip include Mina, Muzdalifah, Arafat & Jabal al-Rahmah and Masjid Nimrah. 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 al-Khayf 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
- Ask your driver to stop near the mosque on a Mina, Muzdalifah and Arafat tour.
- Note the four minarets, which help you find the mosque if you return for Hajj.
- Carry water and a cap, as there is little shade nearby.
- 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 al-Khayf with Zikr Cabs
The easiest way to visit Masjid al-Khayf is with a private car that waits for you. With Zikr Cabs, your driver collects you from your hotel, takes you to Masjid al-Khayf 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 al-Khayf 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 al-Khayf
Where is Masjid al-Khayf?
In Mina, near the small Jamrah, about 5–7 km east of Masjid al-Haram.
Did the Prophet ﷺ pray in Masjid al-Khayf?
Hadith reports state that he prayed in this area during his Farewell Hajj.
Is it open outside Hajj?
It may be closed outside prayer times or the Hajj season. You can still see it from outside.
Is it part of the Makkah ziyarat tour?
Yes, as part of the Mina stop.
Why is it called al-Khayf?
Khayf means ground raised above a valley floor, describing the mosque’s position.
Nearby ziyarats
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Sources and further reading
- Encyclopaedia Britannica – Mina
- Encyclopaedia Britannica – Hajj
- 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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