📍 Location: West of Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, Madinah, Saudi Arabia

🕋 Significance: Site of the Eid and Istisqa (rain) prayers led by Prophet Muhammad ﷺ

📖 Introduction

Masjid al-Ghamama (Arabic: مسجد الغمامة), also known as the Mosque of the Cloud, is one of the oldest and most revered mosques in Madinah al-Munawwarah. Located just a few hundred meters west of the Prophet’s Mosque (Masjid an-Nabawi), it is a site of great spiritual and historical value.

This mosque is famous as the place where Prophet Muhammad ﷺ performed Eid prayers and offered the Salat al-Istisqa (prayer for rain). The name Ghamama, meaning cloud, refers to the miraculous cloud that is said to have shaded the Prophet ﷺ during prayer — a divine sign of Allah’s mercy and blessing.

🕰️ Historical Background

Masjid al-Ghamama marks the very spot where the Prophet ﷺ led the first Eid prayer in Madinah, after his migration from Makkah. According to historical narrations, he also performed multiple Eid prayers and the rain-seeking prayer (Istisqa) here.

The name “Ghamama” comes from the Arabic word for cloud, and it is reported that a cloud shaded the Prophet ﷺ during the prayers, hence the name.

The mosque was originally constructed during the Caliphate of Umar ibn Abdul Aziz (c. 717–720 CE), and later restored during the Ottoman era, making it one of the oldest mosques still standing in Madinah.

🕌 Architecture and Features

• The mosque features Ottoman architectural elements, including a large central dome and arched windows.

• Its structure is compact and elegant, made with traditional black stone and white plaster.

• It has a single minaret, a main prayer hall, and limited but well-maintained space.

• Though it is not used for daily prayers, it remains a heritage site and Ziyarat location.

The interior is simple, preserving the humility of early Islamic spaces while reflecting Ottoman influence in its restoration.

🌟 Religious and Spiritual Significance

Masjid al-Ghamama is spiritually important due to several key reasons:

• It is the site of multiple Eid prayers by the Prophet ﷺ.

• It was the place where Salat al-Istisqa (rain prayer) was performed during times of drought.

• Its location near Masjid an-Nabawi makes it a significant part of Madinah’s sacred geography.

Visitors often stop here during Ziyarat tours to reflect on the Prophet’s ﷺ connection with his community and Allah’s response to his prayers.

📍 Location and Access

Masjid al-Ghamama is situated approximately 300 meters west of Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, in the Al-Masani‘ district of Madinah. It is easily accessible by foot for pilgrims and visitors to the city.

🤲 Etiquette and Recommendations for Visitors

• Visitors are encouraged to pray two rak‘ahs of optional (nafl) prayer.

• Reflect on the importance of prayer, rain, and divine mercy.

• Maintain silence and respect inside and around the mosque.

• Include it in your Ziyarat itinerary when visiting the holy city.

🧡 Conclusion

Masjid al-Ghamama stands as a symbol of mercy, divine response, and the legacy of the Prophet ﷺ’s leadership in Madinah. Visiting this mosque is a powerful reminder of the sincerity of prayer and the kindness of Allah in answering the calls of His righteous servant.

🌧️ May Allah allow us all to visit Masjid al-Ghamama and pray with the same humility and hope as our beloved Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. Ameen.