Therefore, the intention should be to visit the mosque for prayer, not to travel specifically to the grave.

Virtue of Praying in Masjid an-Nabawi

Praying in the Prophet’s Mosque carries a unique reward that cannot be attained elsewhere (except Masjid al-Haram).

The Prophet ﷺ said: “One prayer in this mosque of mine is better than a thousand prayers in any other mosque, except Al-Masjid al-Haram.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari & Muslim)

This virtue applies to obligatory and voluntary prayers.

Etiquettes For Visiting the Prophet’s Mosque

Masjid an-Nabawi holds a special place in the hearts of Muslims, but that does not mean visitors should observe specific etiquette when entering and spending time in the mosque. When entering Prophet’s mosque, follow the same Sunnah etiquette as entering any mosque:

• Enter with the right foot
• Recite the recommended du‘a:

“Bismillaah, was-salaatu was-salaamu ‘ala Rasoolillaah.
Allahummaftah li abwaaba rahmatik.”

(In the name of Allah. O Allah, send peace and blessings upon Your Messenger. O Allah, open for me the doors of Your mercy.)

It is also recommended to seek refuge from Shaytan:

“A‘oodhu billaahil-‘Azeem wa bi wajhihil-kareem wa bi sultaanihil-qadeem minash-shaytaanir-rajeem.”

Visiting the Grave of the Prophet ﷺ

After praying, it is permissible and recommended to visit the grave of the Prophet ﷺ respectfully.

When standing before the grave:

• Face the grave calmly
• Do not raise your voice
• Do not make du‘a to the Prophet ﷺ
• Send salām, not requests

You may say: “As-salāmu ‘alayka yā Rasūlallāh, wa raḥmatullāhi wa barakātuh.”

Then move slightly to the right and greet Abu Bakr (RA), then ‘Umar ibn al-Khattab (RA), saying salām for each.

Important: Du‘a is made to Allah alone, not at the grave or through the deceased

Tahiyyatul Masjid (Greeting the Mosque)

Upon entering Masjid an-Nabawi, pray two rak‘ahs of Tahiyyatul Masjid before sitting, unless it is a prohibited time for prayer.

If you are able, praying these two rak‘ahs in the Rawdah is especially virtuous, but not obligatory.

Note: It is always recommended to consult reliable scholars regarding religious uncertainties.