Masjid al-Shajarah in Madinah: 5 Powerful Steps to Begin Ihram (2026)
✅ TL;DR – Masjid al-Shajarah in Madinah
Masjid al-Shajarah, also known as Miqat Dhul Hulayfah, is the key stop for pilgrims from Madinah to Makkah. It’s where Prophet Muhammad ﷺ entered Ihram, and it remains the designated Miqat for Hajj and Umrah to this day.
In 2025, pilgrims can expect upgraded facilities, shaded areas, and a large serene prayer complex, making this sacred gateway even more accessible and spiritually fulfilling.
What Is Masjid al-Shajarah? (The Mosque of the Tree)
You’ve probably heard people call it Masjid al-Shajarah (مسجد الشجرة), but the name means more than you think. “Shajarah” means “tree” in Arabic, and here’s why that matters.
This mosque stands on a spot where the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ rested under a tree on his way to perform Umrah. That small moment became a huge legacy. Over time, the mosque took on multiple names, like:
- Masjid Dhul Hulayfah
- Masjid Abar Ali
- Masjid Bi’r Ali
- Masjid Miqat
- Masjid al-Husa
- Masjid Ihram
Each name reflects a different layer of history, but they all point back to one thing: this is where Ihram begins.
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Location & Distance from Madinah Landmarks
Here’s the truth. If you’re starting your Umrah or Hajj from Madinah, Masjid al-Shajarah is where you begin.
It’s about 14 km from Masjid al-Nabawi, located near the Madinah–Makkah highway, in an area historically known as Dhul Hulayfah (ذو الحليفة) or Abyar Ali (آبار علي). You’ll find it west of Wadi al-Aqiq (وادي العقيق), surrounded by wide roads, date palms, and calm desert air.
Getting there is simple:
- By taxi: 15–20 minutes
- By car: Park in the huge shaded lots
- By bus: Local transport from the Madinah haram area
Historical Timeline of Masjid Dhul Hulayfah
This mosque isn’t just functional. It’s ancient.
Built during the time of Caliph Umar ibn Abdul Aziz (around 706–711 CE), it has been rebuilt multiple times:
- In 861 AH (1456), based on earlier foundations
- In 1090 AH (1679), by an Indian Muslim under Ottoman permission
- In 1955 AD, under Saudi rule, new minarets were added
- In 1988, a major renovation expanded the mosque to meet modern pilgrim needs
Each renovation made it bigger and better, but it never lost its spiritual core.
Step-by-Step: How to Enter Ihram from Masjid al-Shajarah
If this is your first time, don’t worry. Here’s how it works:
1. Ghusl (Optional Purification)
It’s Sunnah to perform ghusl (full body wash) before putting on Ihram. Clean washrooms are available at the mosque.
2. Wear Ihram Garments
Men wear two white unstitched cloths. Women wear modest clothing that meets Islamic guidelines.
3. Pray Two Rak’ahs
Perform two rakahs of non-obligatory prayer in the mosque, if possible.
4. Make Niyyah (Intention)
Form the intention for Hajj or Umrah with sincerity in your heart.
5. Say the Talbiyah
Raise your voice and say:
لَبَّيْكَ اللَّهُمَّ لَبَّيْكَ، لَبَّيْكَ لَا شَرِيكَ لَكَ لَبَّيْكَ، إِنَّ الْحَمْدَ وَالنِّعْمَةَ لَكَ وَالْمُلْكَ، لَا شَرِيكَ لَكَ
Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik…
This marks the official start of your pilgrimage.
Who Must Use Masjid Dhul Hulayfah as Miqat (ميقات)?
For Madinah Residents
Yes, it’s required. If you live in or are staying in Madinah and plan to perform Hajj or Umrah, this is your Miqat.
According to most jurists, especially Shia scholars, you cannot pass this Miqat without entering Ihram unless you’re ill or excused.
For Travellers via Madinah
If you’re just passing through the Madinah route to Makkah, you must stop at Masjid Miqat to enter Ihram. It’s not allowed to skip and go to Juhfah instead.
Architecture & Facilities of Today’s Mosque
Don’t let the silence fool you. This isn’t just a desert mosque anymore.
Total Area: 290,000 m²
- Mosque Complex: 226,000 m²
- Prayer Area: Holds over 7,000 worshippers
- Minarets: 5, including one 64m high
Modern Amenities Include:
- 500+ restrooms
- Ihram changing rooms
- Separate facilities for men & women
- Huge parking spaces
- A small market and restaurant
- Shaded walkways and planted trees to cool the area
Masjid al-Shajarah (Dhul Hulayfah) – Key Details for Pilgrims
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Name | Masjid al-Shajarah (Mosque of the Tree) |
| Also Known As | Masjid Dhul Hulayfah, Masjid Abar Ali, Masjid Bi’r Ali, Masjid Miqat |
| Location | Dhul Hulayfah, ~14 km south of Masjid al-Nabawi, Madinah |
| Miqat For | People of Madinah & those traveling via Madinah to Makkah |
| Ihram Required From Here? | Yes, according to majority of Islamic scholars |
| First Built In | During rule of Caliph Umar ibn Abdul Aziz (approx. 706 CE) |
| Latest Renovation | 1408 AH / 1988 CE under King Fahd |
| Total Area (with facilities) | Around 290,000 m² |
| Mosque Area Alone | Approx. 6,000 m² (prayer hall) |
| Worshipper Capacity | Over 7,000 people |
| Minarets & Domes | 5 minarets, 13 domes |
| Facilities Available | 500+ restrooms, Ihram changing rooms, parking, restaurant, market |
| Spiritual Significance | Prophet ﷺ began Umrah & Hajj Ihram here; also known for tree-shade incident |
| Best Time to Visit | After Fajr or after Isha (less crowd, cooler weather) |
Spiritual Importance of Masjid al-Shajarah
You’re not just changing clothes here. You’re entering a state of devotion.
This mosque stands where the Prophet ﷺ began his pilgrimage, and today, millions follow that path.
When you stand here, wearing Ihram, reciting Talbiyah, you’re literally walking in his footsteps. There’s something silent, powerful, and humbling about it.
Masjid al-Shajarah vs Other Miqat Locations
Masjid al-Shajarah (Dhul Hulayfah)
- For: Residents of Madinah and those arriving from there
- Distance to Makkah: ~433 km
Juhfah
- For: Travellers from North Africa, Europe, etc.
Qarn al-Manazil
- For: Pilgrims from Najd, Riyadh, and the east
Bottom line: If you’re in or near Madinah, this is your Miqat.
📌 FAQs about Masjid al-Shajarah
Where is Masjid Abar Ali located in Madinah?
About 14 km from Masjid al-Nabawi, along the Makkah highway in the Dhul Hulayfah area.
Why is it called the Mosque of the Tree?
Because the Prophet ﷺ sat under a tree at this spot during his journey to Makkah.
How far is Masjid Ihram from Masjid al-Nabawi?
Roughly 15–20 minutes by car, depending on traffic.
Can you enter the Ihram outside the mosque?
Yes, as long as you’re still within the Miqat zone. But most prefer to do it inside.
What facilities are available at Miqat Dhul Hulayfah?
Prayer area, washrooms, Ihram changing rooms, markets, and parking.
Is Ihram mandatory from here for Madinah residents?
Yes, according to most Islamic scholars, especially in Shia rulings.
Can women use the same Ihram facilities at this mosque?
Yes. There are separate facilities for women for both changing and praying.
When did the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ use this Miqat?
During Umrah and Hajj, including after the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah.
What are the rules if you miss Miqat Dhul Hulayfah?
If you cross it without Ihram, you must either return or offer a sacrificial penalty in Makkah.
What’s the best time to visit Masjid Bi’r Ali for Ihram?
After Fajr or Isha, when it’s cooler, less crowded, and peaceful.
Is Masjid al-Haram in Makkah or Madinah?
Masjid al-Haram is located in Makkah, while Masjid al-Nabawi is in Madinah. Both are sacred, but distinct.
What is the Jinn Masjid in Madinah?
That refers to Masjid al-Jinn, a historic mosque where a group of jinn listened to the Prophet’s ﷺ recitation of the Qur’an.
What is the name of the Miqat Masjid from Madinah to Makkah?
It’s called Masjid al-Shajarah, also known as Masjid Dhul Hulayfah or Miqat Abar Ali.
Where is Masjid Shajarah?
It’s in the Dhul Hulayfah area, approximately 14 km from Masjid al-Nabawi, heading toward Makkah.
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Farrukh Farooqi has been living in Sharaya, Makkah, Saudi Arabia since 2010. With over 14 years of firsthand experience witnessing the sacred journey of millions of pilgrims, Farrukh specializes in providing practical, insider tips for Hajj and Umrah travelers. His work blends real-world observations, the latest Saudi updates, and essential crowd management strategies — helping pilgrims and worshippers plan smarter, stay safer, and experience a spiritually fulfilling journey across the Holy Cities.
