Masjid al-Nabawi Introduces Digital Maps to Check Prayer Space Availability

For anyone who has visited Masjid al-Nabawi in Madinah, one thing is certain—the mosque is always buzzing with worshippers, especially during peak prayer times. Whether it's daily prayers, the spiritually charged nights of Ramadan, or the influx of pilgrims throughout the year, finding an available prayer space can sometimes be a challenge.

To make this experience smoother, the administration of the Prophet’s Mosque has introduced a groundbreaking solution: digital maps that allow worshippers to check the availability of prayer spaces in real-time. This new feature is designed to help visitors navigate the vast expanse of the mosque more efficiently, reducing overcrowding and ensuring a more comfortable prayer experience.

Also read: Your Comprehensive Umrah Guide: Things to Do When Going For Pilgrimage

How does it work?

Image credit: Ingo Joseph | Canva Pro

The system is simple and user-friendly. Digital maps are now available in Arabic, English, and Urdu, making them accessible to many visitors. By scanning a QR code displayed at various entry points using the Nusuk app, worshippers can instantly check the crowd levels in 12 different areas within the mosque. The Nusuk app is available for download on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, making it easy for visitors to access the service.

Each area is colour-coded to indicate its current occupancy status. If a section is already full, visitors can see this information in real-time and choose an alternative prayer space instead of wandering around searching for a spot. This not only saves time but also helps maintain the peaceful atmosphere of the mosque by preventing congestion.

Step-by-step guide to access digital maps on Nusuk app

Image credit: App Store

For worshippers looking to use the digital map feature, here’s a simple step-by-step guide:

1. Download the Nusuk App – If you haven’t already, download the Nusuk app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.

2. Open the App – Launch the Nusuk app on your smartphone.

3. Navigate to the Digital Maps Feature – Look for the section within the app that provides access to Masjid al-Nabawi’s services. There should be an option specifically for checking prayer space availability.

4. Scan the QR Code – When you arrive at the mosque, scan the QR code displayed at various entrances using the app’s built-in scanner.

5. View Real-Time Information – The app will display a digital map of the mosque, showing different sections and their current occupancy levels.

6. Choose a Prayer Space – Based on the information provided, select an area with available space and proceed to that section for prayer.

Appointments for visiting Rawdah during the last ten days of the month Of Ramadan!

Men:

• 1st period: 11:20am- 8:00pm

• 2nd period: 11:00pm - 12:00am

• 3rd period: 2:00am - 5:00am

Women: 6:00am to 11:00am

To visit the Rawdah, you must book an appointment in advance via the Nusuk app.

Refer this video1 for the guide and this video2 to book you Rawdah slot.

A step towards smarter worship spaces

Image credit: Inside the Haramain | Official Facebook

This initiative is part of ongoing efforts by the Ministry of Holy Mosques Affairs to improve the prayer experience, particularly during Ramadan when the mosque reaches its maximum capacity. The digital maps are expected to be especially beneficial during the last ten nights of the holy month, a period that sees an overwhelming number of worshippers seeking the blessings of Laylat al-Qadr.

Beyond Ramadan, this system holds long-term potential for enhancing the pilgrimage experience. With millions of Muslims visiting Madinah every year, having a digital tool to navigate the mosque can make a significant difference in comfort and convenience.

A new era of digital convenience for pilgrims

Image credit: الْمَسْجِدِ النَّبَوِيِّ AlMasjid AlNabawi | Official Facebook

Also read: Meningitis Vaccine Now Mandatory For Umrah Pilgrims in Ramadan 2025

The introduction of digital maps at Masjid al-Nabawi reflects a broader trend of incorporating technology into religious experiences. Similar digital tools have already been implemented at Masjid al-Haram in Makkah, helping pilgrims manage their movements more effectively during Hajj and Umrah.

This development is a testament to Saudi Arabia’s commitment to improving the experience of pilgrims and visitors through innovation. As more travellers embark on spiritual journeys, smart solutions like these will play an essential role in making their worship experiences seamless and fulfilling.

For those planning a visit to Masjid al-Nabawi, the Nusuk app and its digital map system are certainly features worth utilising. It’s an exciting step towards a more organised and stress-free prayer experience in one of Islam’s most sacred sites.