Complete Guide to Masjid Nabawi Parking System: Structure, Entry & Exit Points

Navigating the Masjid Nabawi parking system can be overwhelming for first-time visitors. With multiple levels, sections, and entry points, finding your way around this massive underground facility requires preparation. This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about parking at the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah, from structure overview to practical tips that will save you time and reduce stress during your visit.

Masjid Nabawi Parking Structure Overview

The Masjid Nabawi underground parking facility is a marvel of modern engineering, designed to accommodate thousands of vehicles while maintaining proximity to the holy mosque. Understanding its layout is essential for a smooth parking experience.

Levels and Capacity

The parking structure consists of four underground levels (B1 through B4), with a total capacity exceeding 4,000 vehicles. Each level is designed with wide lanes and clearly marked parking spaces to accommodate various vehicle sizes.

• Level B1: Closest to the surface, primarily for short-term parking (1-3 hours)
• Level B2: Medium-term parking (3-8 hours)
• Level B3: Extended parking (8+ hours)
• Level B4: Deepest level, typically used during peak periods and for overnight parking

Section Organization

Each level is divided into numbered sections (1-13) with subsections A and B. This alphanumeric system helps visitors locate their vehicles and navigate to the nearest exits. For example, parking spot “3B-42” indicates Level B3, Section 4, Subsection B, Spot 42.

Entry Points to Masjid Nabawi Parking

There are five main entrances to the Masjid Nabawi underground parking system, strategically positioned around the mosque complex. Each entrance leads to specific parking sections and is convenient for different hotels and mosque gates.

North Entrance (Entry 1)

The North Entrance is located near Anwar al Madina Movenpick Hotel and provides direct access to parking sections 8A & 8B.

• Nearest Mosque Gates: Gates 15-17 (Bab Umar Ibn al Khattab)
• Closest Hotels: Le Bosphorus Waqf Al Safi, Elaf Taiba, Anwar al-Madina Movenpick
• Best For: Visitors staying in the northern hotel district or entering the mosque through Gates 15-17

East Entrance (Entry 2)

The East Entrance is positioned near Jannat ul Baqi cemetery and leads to parking sections 11A & 11B and 12 & 13.

• Nearest Mosque Gates: Gates 24-26 (Bab Uthman bin Affan) and Gates 28-35
• Closest Hotels: The Oberoi Madina, Al-Haram Hotel, Golden Tulip Al-Zahabi
• Best For: Visitors planning to visit Jannat ul Baqi or staying in eastern hotels

East entrance to Masjid Nabawi parking near Jannat ul Baqi

South Entrance (Entry 3)

The South Entrance is located near Masjid Ghammama and provides access to parking sections 5A & 5B.

• Nearest Mosque Gates: Near Masjid Ghammama, convenient for Gates 6-9
• Closest Hotels: Pine Wood Madina Hotel, Dar Al-Salam Al-Andalus, Hotel Buraq Golden
• Best For: Visitors staying in southern hotels or those arriving from the Makkah highway

West Entrance (Entry 4)

The West Entrance is positioned near Bab-e-Quba (Gate 5) and leads to parking sections 3A & 3B and 4A & 4B.

• Nearest Mosque Gates: Gate 5 (Bab-e-Quba) and Gate 6
• Closest Hotels: Madina Golden Hotel, One Inn Hotel, Golden Tulip Al-Shakreen
• Best For: Visitors arriving from western Madinah or those who visited Masjid Quba

Central Entrance (Entry 5)

The Central Entrance is located near the Hijrah Gate (Gate 4) and provides access to parking sections 2A & 2B.

• Nearest Mosque Gates: Gate 4 (Hijrah Gate), Gates 1-3
• Closest Hotels: Madin Manazeli Hotel, Crown Plaza Hotel
• Best For: Visitors staying in central hotels or those who want quick access to the western side of the mosque

Interior view of Masjid Nabawi underground parking with clear section markings

Exit Points and Navigation Strategy

Understanding the exit points from Masjid Nabawi’s parking system is crucial for a smooth departure experience. Each exit corresponds to specific mosque gates and city directions.

Main Exit Points

The five main exits from the underground parking align with the entry points but feature dedicated lanes to prevent traffic congestion.

Navigation Tips for Exiting

Follow these navigation tips to efficiently exit the Masjid Nabawi parking system:

• From Section 1A/1B: Follow blue signs to South Exit
• From Section 2A/2B: Follow green signs to Central Exit
• From Section 3A/3B or 4A/4B: Follow yellow signs to West Exit
• From Section 5A/5B: Follow orange signs to South Exit
• From Sections 6A/6B or 7A/7B: Follow purple signs to West Exit
• From Sections 8A/8B, 9A/9B, or 10A/10B: Follow red signs to North Exit
• From Sections 11A/11B, 12, or 13: Follow brown signs to East Exit

Color-coded directional signs guiding visitors to parking exits

Navigate with Ease Using the Mawgif App

Download the official Mawgif App to pay parking fees digitally and use the built-in navigation to find the quickest route to your exit.

Practical Features and Amenities

The Masjid Nabawi parking system offers various amenities designed to enhance the visitor experience and provide convenience during your stay.

Designated prayer area within the parking facility

Prayer Areas

Each parking level features designated prayer areas for those who cannot reach the main mosque in time for prayers. These areas are equipped with prayer mats and clear Qibla indicators.

Restroom Facilities

Clean restroom facilities with wudu (ablution) areas are available throughout the parking structure, typically located near the prayer areas and main elevator banks.

Accessibility Features

The parking facility is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring:

• Designated ADA-compliant parking spaces near elevators
• Wheelchair-accessible pathways throughout
• Elevators with Braille indicators and audio announcements
• Shuttle service for elderly and disabled visitors (available upon request)

EV Charging Stations

A limited number of electric vehicle charging stations are available on Level B1, primarily in Sections 2A and 8B. These stations support standard charging protocols and are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Electric vehicle charging stations available in Level B1

Security Features

The parking facility is equipped with comprehensive security measures:

• 24/7 CCTV surveillance throughout all levels
• Regular security patrols
• Emergency call buttons at strategic locations
• Well-lit pathways and parking areas

Parking Fees and Payment Options

Understanding the fee structure and payment options will help you budget appropriately for your visit to Masjid Nabawi.

Fee Structure

The parking fees at Masjid Nabawi underground parking are tiered based on duration:

• First 2 Hours: SR 1.15 per hour
• From 2-8 Hours: SR 2.30 per hour
• From 8 Hours onwards: SR 3.45 per hour

Note: Parking fees are subject to change during special periods such as Ramadan, Hajj, or other religious occasions. Check current rates before your visit.

Payment Methods

Several payment options are available for your convenience:

Digital Payment

• Mawgif Mobile App (recommended)
• Saudi Payment Network (mada)
• Major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard)

Traditional Payment

• Cash payment at automated kiosks
• Staffed payment booths at exits
• Pre-paid parking cards (available at information desks)

Mawgif App interface for convenient digital parking payment

Save Time with Digital Payments

Skip the payment lines and manage your parking fees directly from your smartphone with the official Mawgif App.

Pro Tips for Masjid Nabawi Parking

Make your visit smoother with these insider tips from experienced visitors to Masjid Nabawi.

Traffic management at Masjid Nabawi parking during peak prayer time

Best Times to Find Parking

Parking availability varies significantly throughout the day and week:

• Least Crowded: Between Fajr and Dhuhr prayers on weekdays
• Moderately Crowded: Between Asr and Maghrib on weekdays
• Most Crowded: Friday prayers, Ramadan evenings, and holiday periods

For Friday prayers, aim to arrive at least 2-3 hours before Adhan to secure parking. During Ramadan, consider arriving 3-4 hours before Taraweeh prayers.

Section Selection Strategy

Choose your parking section strategically based on your needs:

For Short Visits (1-2 hours)

• Sections 2A/2B or 8A/8B offer quickest access to the mosque
• Level B1 provides fastest entry/exit

For Extended Stays

• Sections 3A/3B or 11A/11B typically have better availability
• Levels B3/B4 are less congested for long-term parking

Hotel Shuttle Pickup Zones

Many hotels offer shuttle services with designated pickup points:

• North Exit: Pickup zone for Anwar al-Madina Movenpick, Elaf Taiba
• East Exit: Pickup zone for The Oberoi, Dallah Taibah
• South Exit: Pickup zone for Pullman ZamZam, Madina Movenpick
• West Exit: Pickup zone for Crown Plaza, Golden Tulip

Hotel shuttle pickup zone at parking exit with clear hotel signage

Remember Your Parking Location

Take these steps to avoid losing your car in the massive parking structure:

• Take a photo of your parking section sign and nearby pillar number
• Use the “save parking location” feature in the Mawgif App
• Note the color code of your parking section (each has a distinct color)
• Identify the nearest elevator bank or prayer area as a reference point

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about the Masjid Nabawi parking system.

How early should I arrive for Friday prayers to find parking?

For Friday prayers, it’s advisable to arrive at least 2-3 hours before the Adhan (call to prayer) to secure parking. During peak seasons like Ramadan or Hajj, consider arriving even earlier (3-4 hours before) as the parking fills up quickly. Sections 3A/3B and 11A/11B typically have better availability even during busy periods.

Can I leave my car overnight in the Masjid Nabawi parking?

Yes, overnight parking is permitted in the Masjid Nabawi underground parking facility. There are no time restrictions, but fees continue to accumulate at the rate of SR 3.45 per hour after the first 8 hours. For extended stays, levels B3 and B4 are recommended as they are less congested and provide better security for long-term parking.

Are there luggage trolleys available near the parking?

Yes, luggage trolleys are available at designated stations near the main elevator banks on each parking level. These trolleys are free to use but must be returned to the designated return areas. During peak seasons, trolley availability may be limited, so it’s advisable to bring collapsible or wheeled luggage if possible.

Is there a maximum height restriction for vehicles?

Yes, the maximum vehicle height allowed in the Masjid Nabawi underground parking is 2.2 meters (7.2 feet). Vehicles exceeding this height, such as large RVs or buses, must use the designated above-ground parking areas located approximately 1 km from the mosque. Shuttle services connect these external parking areas to the mosque.

How do I pay if I lose my parking ticket?

If you lose your parking ticket, you’ll need to visit the parking management office located near the central exit. You’ll be required to show your vehicle registration and ID, and pay a lost ticket fee (approximately SR 100) plus the parking charges calculated from the time of entry. Using the Mawgif App can help avoid this situation as your entry is digitally recorded.

Information desk where visitors can get assistance with lost tickets and other inquiries