For so many of us, visiting Masjid al-Nabawi is a dream — a once-in-a-lifetime moment filled with love, awe, and deep connection to the Prophet ﷺ. But as you step into this blessed space, there’s something important you should do first — a simple Sunnah act that often gets forgotten in the excitement of arriving.
It’s called Tahiyyatul Masjid — the prayer of greeting the mosque.
What Is Tahiyyatul Masjid?
Tahiyyatul Masjid means “greeting the mosque,” and it is a Sunnah prayer of two Rak‘ahs offered upon entering any masjid — including Masjid al-Nabawi. It’s not obligatory, but the Prophet ﷺ encouraged it so strongly that it feels like a welcome gift we should never skip.
The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said:
“If one of you enters the mosque, he should not sit down until he has prayed two rak‘ahs.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari and Muslim)
This hadith isn’t just instruction — it’s a beautiful reminder that we’re not entering just any place. We’re entering the House of Allah, and in this case, the Prophet’s ﷺ mosque. What an honour. What a responsibility.
How Do You Pray It?
When you enter the masjid:
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Step in with your right foot
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Say the Sunnah du’a: “Allahumma iftah li abwaba rahmatik” (O Allah, open the doors of Your mercy)
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Then, without delay, pray two Rak‘ahs of Tahiyyatul Masjid before sitting down
That’s it. No special surahs are required — just two sincere, humble Rak‘ahs done with presence of heart.
Are There Times You Shouldn’t Pray It?
Yes, there are a few exceptions. Don’t pray Tahiyyatul Masjid if:
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An obligatory prayer is already in progress
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You enter during the khutbah (Friday sermon)
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The Adhan is being called and the prayer is about to begin
In these moments, the Sunnah is to join the congregation or listen attentively — and the reward of your intention remains with Allah ﷻ.
Where Should You Pray It in Masjid al-Nabawi?
Anywhere that’s not blocking others — avoid pathways or restricted areas. While many wish to pray in the Rawdah, access is limited by appointments due to high crowds. Don’t delay your Tahiyyatul Masjid waiting for a chance to enter Rawdah. Pray where you can, sincerely — even the furthest corner of this masjid is full of barakah.
Can You Combine It with Other Prayers?
If time is short, you can combine Tahiyyatul Masjid with other Sunnah prayers — such as the Sunnah before Dhuhr — by making the niyyah for both. But if you have time, it’s better to pray them separately, increasing your reward and your moments with Allah.
What to Do After Tahiyyatul Masjid?
Once you’ve prayed, this is your opportunity to:
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Sit and remember Allah (Dhikr) or make du’a
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Recite the Qur’an
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Or simply wait for the next congregational salah
Remember, each prayer in Masjid al-Nabawi carries 1,000 times more reward than in any other masjid except Masjid al-Haram. So make the most of your time there.
Don’t Miss This Moment
Even if you’re tired, jet-lagged, or carrying the emotions of your journey, don’t skip these two simple Rak‘ahs. They’re more than just a prayer — they’re a sign of your love, your respect, and your awareness that you’re now in one of the holiest places on Earth.
You’re not just walking into a masjid — you’re walking into the Prophet’s ﷺ mosque.
Make every step in it meaningful.