In this guide you will find the history and significance of The Prophet’s Birthplace (Makkah Library), 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 The Prophet’s Birthplace (Makkah Library)

Most historians date the birth of the Prophet ﷺ to the Year of the Elephant, around 570 CE, in Makkah. In Sahih Muslim, the Prophet ﷺ said about Monday, ‘That is the day on which I was born.’ The exact house is not mentioned in the Qur’an or authentic hadith; its location comes from early historians of Makkah.

Over the centuries, different buildings stood on the site. The current library building was built in the 20th century, and the area was kept as a library rather than a shrine.

Today it is usually closed to the public, and visitors see it from outside. The surrounding area has changed greatly with the expansion of the Haram.

Where is The Prophet’s Birthplace (Makkah Library)? Location and distance

The building is just outside the eastern plaza of Masjid al-Haram, near the Safa and Marwah side, within walking distance of most central hotels.

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

Any time you are in the eastern plaza, especially after a prayer when you are already nearby. No car is needed if you stay close to the Haram.

Reflect quietly and send salawat on the Prophet ﷺ. Scholars advise against touching the walls or seeking blessing from the building, and visiting it is not part of Umrah.

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 The Prophet’s Birthplace (Makkah Library) with other ziyarat

Most pilgrims visit The Prophet’s Birthplace (Makkah Library) as part of a wider tour rather than on its own. Nearby places that fit well on the same trip include Masjid al-Jinn, Jannat al-Mu’alla and Jabal al-Nour & Ghar Hira. 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 The Prophet’s Birthplace (Makkah Library) 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

• Usually closed inside; view it from the plaza.
• Signs on the building say it is a library; staff and guards may ask visitors to keep moving.
• Combine it with a walk past the Safa and Marwah area after your Umrah.
• 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 The Prophet’s Birthplace (Makkah Library) with Zikr Cabs

The easiest way to visit The Prophet’s Birthplace (Makkah Library) is with a private car that waits for you. With Zikr Cabs, your driver collects you from your hotel, takes you to The Prophet’s Birthplace (Makkah Library) 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.

The Prophet’s Birthplace (Makkah Library) 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 The Prophet’s Birthplace (Makkah Library)

Nearby ziyarats

• Masjid al-Jinn
• Jannat al-Mu’alla
• Jabal al-Nour & Ghar Hira

← Back to the Makkah Ziyarat Guide

Sources and further reading

• Sahih Muslim 1162 (“that is the day I was born”)
• Encyclopaedia Britannica – Muhammad
• 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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