Plizio Visual Lab
Quba Mosque
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
historical-site
The Quba Mosque in Medina is the first mosque in Islamic history, holding immense religious significance. It was built in 622 AD immediately after Prophet Muhammad's arrival in Medina during his emigration (Hijra) from Mecca. The Prophet himself laid the foundation stones for the original structure. Over the centuries, the mosque has been expanded and renovated numerous times, with its current appearance resulting from a complete reconstruction in 1986. This modern structure is characterized by its brilliant white facade, four minarets, and 56 domes, representing a harmonious blend of traditional Islamic architecture and modern engineering. Located about 3.5 kilometers south of the Prophet's Mosque, it is surrounded by historic palm groves. Visiting the Quba Mosque is considered highly virtuous, as traditions state that offering prayers there yields a spiritual reward equivalent to performing an Umrah. Its vast prayer halls and open courtyard accommodate thousands of worshipers, making it one of the most visited sacred sites in Medina.
- Location: Saudi Arabia
- Top sights: Milaf Oasis · Masjid Diab Bin Nasser · Masjid Al-Bali
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Nov.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 16 | 18 | 22 | 26 | 31 | 34 | 34 | 35 | 33 | 29 | 22 | 18 |
| Rain mm | 4 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 1 | 6 | 3 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Quba Mosque is usually open to visitors outside prayer times. Non-Muslims are typically allowed entry, but you should check current regulations locally.
Typical hours
The mosque is typically open daily, with closures during the five daily prayers. The best visiting times are early morning or late morning.
Photography
Photography is usually allowed in the courtyard and prayer hall as long as you do not disturb worshippers. Flash photography is generally discouraged.
Time needed
Allow about 30 to 45 minutes for touring the mosque and its grounds. Those interested in its history should set aside an hour.
Combine with
Combine your visit with a tour of the Prophet's Mosque in Medina, just a few kilometers away. The nearby Quba Market also makes a good addition.
Getting there
The mosque is located in southern Medina and is easily reachable by taxi or bus. Many visitors use free shuttle buses during the Hajj season.
Insider tip
Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere. Remember to dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering.
Geography
Facts
- The first mosque in Islamic history, established in 622 AD.
- Prophet Muhammad personally laid the first stones of its foundation.
- Completely rebuilt in 1986 by architect Abdel-Wahed El-Wakil.
- Currently features four minarets and a total of 56 domes.
- Located approximately 3.5 kilometers south of Al-Masjid an-Nabawi.
- Referenced in the Quran as the mosque founded on righteousness.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Quba Mosque (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is Quba Mosque?
It is considered the first mosque ever built by Prophet Muhammad.
Is there a dress code?
Yes, modest dress covering shoulders and knees is mandatory.
Is it accessible to non-Muslims?
Only the outdoor area is accessible to visitors.
When is the best time to visit?
Early morning is the quietest and most pleasant.
Is it wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the complex is largely designed to be accessible.
Quba Mosque: where is it located?
Quba Mosque is located in Saudi Arabia.
Quba Mosque: what is there to see?
Highlights include Milaf Oasis, Masjid Diab Bin Nasser, Masjid Al-Bali.
Quba Mosque: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Nov.
Quba Mosque: why is it worth visiting?
The Quba Mosque in Medina is the first mosque in Islamic history, holding immense religious significance.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Asia
More places in Saudi Arabia →
Nearby cities
Medina
The second holiest city in Islam is home to the Prophet's Mosque and serves as a central spiritual site.
Yanbu
A coastal city that is significant for its refineries and the major petroleum export port on the west coast.
Umluj
Often called the 'Maldives of Saudi Arabia', Umluj boasts pristine coral reefs, white sandy beaches, and crystal-clear turquoise waters.
Al Wajh
Al Wajh is a charming coastal town featuring a historic old quarter and access to the Red Sea's most pristine coral reefs.
History & landmarks
Tayma
A legendary oasis city in northwestern Saudi Arabia with over 3,000 years of history.
Quba Mosque
This brilliant white mosque in Medina is considered the first mosque built in the history of Islam.
Prophet's Mosque
The second holiest site in Islam in Medina, built by the Prophet Muhammad, known for its green domes.
Mount Uhud
A historic mountain north of Medina where one of the most important battles in early Islamic history took place.
Al Khaybar
Al Khaybar is an ancient oasis set amidst volcanic lava fields, known for its monumental stone structures and historic forts.
Elephant Rock
A massive red sandstone monolith near Al-Ula that has taken the striking shape of an elephant through natural erosion.
Maraya Concert Hall
This incredible building in the Ashar Valley is completely covered in mirrors that reflect the desert landscape.
More places
Yanbu Industrial City
Yanbu Industrial City on the Red Sea serves as a major export point for Saudi oil and gas to the western world.
Al-Ula Old Town
An ancient oasis town with abandoned mud-brick houses.
Uhud Battlefield
The site of the famous Battle of Uhud between early Muslims and the Quraysh.
Harrat Khaybar
A massive volcanic field in the northwest, dotted with craters, lava fields, and mysterious ancient stone structures known as 'kite gates'.
Jabal Qidr
A prominent volcanic cone in the Harrat Khaybar volcanic field, featuring pitch-black lava.
Harrat Rahat
One of the largest lava fields in the world, stretching south of the holy city of Medina and forming a black, rugged landscape.
Mahd adh Dhahab Mine
Mahd adh Dhahab Mine, also known as the 'Cradle of Gold', is the most important gold mine in Saudi Arabia.
Jabal Radhwa
A prominent mountain ridge in the Yanbu region that rises reddish from the surrounding plain and was often praised in classical Arabic po…