Prophet’s Mosque Welcomes 6m Visitors in 1 Week

Farah El Akkad February 25, 2024

0 2 minutes read

Prophet's Mosque Welcomes 6m Visitors in 1 Week — People walk in the courtyard of the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah. (File/SPA)

The Prophet’s Mosque, one of the most revered sites in Islam, experienced a significant influx of worshippers last week. Located in the Saudi city of Medina, the mosque is the second holiest site in Islam, following the Grand Mosque in Mecca. More than 6 million Muslims visited the mosque to perform prayers and pay their respects at the tomb of the Prophet Mohammed (PBUH).

Table of Contents

The Significance of the Prophet’s Mosque

The Prophet’s Mosque holds immense significance for Muslims worldwide. It is not only a place of worship but also a site of deep historical and spiritual importance. The mosque houses the tomb of Prophet Mohammed (PBUH), making it a pivotal destination for pilgrims. According to the Agency for the Prophet’s Mosque Presidency, the number of worshippers reached 6.3 million in just one week, from the 22nd to the 29th of Rabi Al Akhar, the fourth month of the Islamic lunar calendar.

Al Rawda Al Sharifa: A Place of Special Devotion

Within the Prophet’s Mosque, Al Rawda Al Sharifa is a highly revered area where the Prophet’s tomb is located. During this week, 127,671 worshippers prayed in this sacred space. Access to Al Rawda Al Sharifa requires prior booking and adherence to designated time slots, ensuring an organized and respectful visit for the pilgrims.

Umrah Pilgrimage and Its Role

Many worshippers visiting the Prophet’s Mosque are also participants of Umrah, a minor pilgrimage to the Grand Mosque in Mecca. Unlike Hajj, which is obligatory for Muslims who are physically and financially capable at least once in their lifetime, Umrah can be performed any time of the year and is not mandatory. The resumption of Umrah, following a three-year pause due to the COVID-19 pandemic, has seen a resurgence in pilgrim numbers, with Saudi expecting around 10 million foreign Muslims for the current season.

The Impact of COVID-19 and the Resumption of Pilgrimages

The global COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on religious pilgrimages, with restrictions and pauses in place to ensure public safety. However, with the situation improving, Saudi Arabia has seen a return of religious tourism. The annual Hajj pilgrimage recently welcomed around 1.8 million Muslims, the first such gathering in three years.

The influx of over 6 million worshippers to the Prophet’s Mosque in just one week highlights the enduring spiritual and religious significance of this holy site. As the world continues to navigate the post-pandemic era, the role of such religious landmarks in providing solace and spiritual fulfillment remains profound. The Prophet’s Mosque, with its rich history and spiritual significance, continues to be a beacon of faith for millions of Muslims around the world.

Ministry of Commerce Prepares for Umrah Season

Short link :

Post Views: 1,383