Visiting the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah is a spiritually profound experience for millions of Muslims worldwide. However, navigating the parking facilities can be challenging without proper guidance, especially for first-time visitors. The Masjid al-Nabawi Underground Parking system has been developed to ease this process by offering organized, secure, and conveniently located parking spaces near the mosque. With proper information about Masjid al-Nabawi Underground Parking, visitors can save time, avoid confusion, and focus more on their worship experience.
Overview of Masjid al-Nabawi Parking Infrastructure
The Prophet’s Mosque parking complex stands as an engineering marvel, designed to accommodate the massive influx of worshippers throughout the year. The General Presidency for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques continuously upgrades these facilities to enhance visitor experience.
Key Statistics at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
| Total Parking Capacity | 4,500+ vehicles |
| Number of Underground Levels | 3 levels |
| Total Area | 690,000 square meters |
| Operating Hours | 24/7 (with peak hour considerations) |
| Electric Vehicle Charging Stations | 150+ points |
| Accessibility Spaces | 200+ designated spots |
| Smart Parking Sensors | Installed throughout |
Location and Entry Points
The underground parking facility spans beneath the western and southern sections of the Haram complex. Understanding entry points saves valuable time, especially during peak prayer times.
Primary Entry Gates
1. King Fahd Gate Entrance (Western Side)
- Coordinates: 24.4672° N, 39.6112° E
- Best for visitors coming from Quba Road
- Direct elevator access to the main prayer hall
2. King Abdul Aziz Gate Entrance (Southern Side)
- Coordinates: 24.4665° N, 39.6118° E
- Recommended for visitors from the central Madinah area
- Connected to the women’s prayer sections
3. Bab Al-Salam Entrance (Northern Approach)
- Ideal for visitors heading to Rawdah Sharif
- Less congested during non-peak hours
Navigation Tips
- Follow the green digital signboards displaying “مواقف السيارات” (Car Parking)
- GPS coordinates work reliably for all major entry points
- Traffic police actively direct vehicles during Hajj and Umrah seasons
Parking Fees and Payment Structure 2026
The Saudi government has implemented a transparent pricing system to manage traffic flow and ensure fair access for all visitors.
Current Fee Structure
| Duration | Standard Rate | Ramadan/Hajj Rate |
| First 2 hours | Free | Free |
| 2-4 hours | SAR 10 | SAR 15 |
| 4-8 hours | SAR 20 | SAR 30 |
| 8-24 hours | SAR 40 | SAR 60 |
| Weekly Pass | SAR 200 | SAR 350 |
| Monthly Pass | SAR 600 | Not Available |
Payment Methods Accepted
✅ Mada Cards (Recommended)
✅ Visa/Mastercard
✅ Apple Pay & Samsung Pay
✅ Cash (Limited machines)
✅ Nusuk App Integration
Pro Tip: Download the Nusuk app beforehand. It allows pre-booking parking slots during peak seasons and provides real-time availability updates.
Operating Hours and Peak Times
Standard Operating Schedule
The parking facility operates 24 hours daily, but understanding peak patterns helps visitors plan effectively.
| Prayer Time | Congestion Level | Recommended Arrival |
| Fajr | Moderate | 30 mins before Adhan |
| Dhuhr | High | 45 mins before Adhan |
| Asr | Moderate | 30 mins before Adhan |
| Maghrib | Very High | 1 hour before Adhan |
| Isha | High | 45 mins before Adhan |
| Tahajjud | Low | Anytime |
| Jummah (Friday) | Extremely High | 2+ hours before |
Seasonal Considerations
Ramadan Period:
- Expect 300% increase in vehicle traffic
- Iftaar time creates highest congestion
- Consider public transportation alternatives
Hajj Season:
- Restricted access for non-Hajj visitors
- Special permits required
- Alternative parking at Abu Bakr Al-Siddiq parking available
Facilities and Amenities Inside the Parking Complex
The underground parking isn’t merely a vehicle storage space—it’s a comprehensive visitor service center.
Available Services
Accessibility Features:
- Wheelchair-accessible elevators at every 50-meter interval
- Priority parking near elevators for disabled visitors
- Audio guidance systems for visually impaired individuals
Comfort Amenities:
- Air-conditioned walkways connecting to the Haram
- Clean restroom facilities on each level
- Prayer areas for quick worship
- Baby changing stations
- Lost and found offices
Technology Integration:
- Smart parking sensors showing real-time availability
- Digital wayfinding screens in Arabic and English
- Emergency call stations every 25 meters
- CCTV surveillance throughout
- Mobile charging stations
Special Accommodations for Different Visitor Categories
Elderly Visitors
The General Presidency provides specialized services:
- Golf cart transportation from parking to mosque entrances
- Dedicated parking zones closest to elevators
- Volunteer assistance upon request
- Medical first-aid stations
Families with Children
- Family parking sections on Level B1 (closest to surface)
- Stroller-friendly pathways
- Family restrooms with child-safety features
- Lost child assistance centers
Women Visitors
- Designated women-only parking sections
- Direct elevator access to women’s prayer halls
- Female security personnel available
- Separate walking corridors
How to Use the Smart Parking System
The 2026 upgrade introduced advanced smart parking technology making the experience seamless.
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Entry
- Approach any entry gate
- Collect ticket or scan Nusuk QR code
- Barrier opens automatically
Step 2: Finding a Spot
- Look for green LED indicators (available)
- Red indicators show occupied spaces
- Follow digital directional signs
Step 3: Parking
- Note your zone, level, and spot number
- Take photo of location marker (recommended)
- Use the Eatmarna app to save location digitally
Step 4: Exit
- Insert ticket at payment kiosk
- Pay applicable fees
- Collect exit ticket
- Present at exit barrier
Alternative Parking Options Near Masjid al-Nabawi
When underground parking reaches capacity, these alternatives serve visitors effectively.
| Parking Name | Distance from Haram | Capacity | Hourly Rate |
| Abu Bakr Al-Siddiq Parking | 500 meters | 2,000 vehicles | SAR 5 |
| King Fahd Road Parking | 800 meters | 1,500 vehicles | SAR 4 |
| Quba Road Multi-Story | 1.2 km | 3,000 vehicles | SAR 3 |
| Central Area Street Parking | Varies | Limited | SAR 2/hour |
Public Transportation Alternatives
- Madinah Metro (Under Development): Expected partial operation by late 2026
- Free Shuttle Buses: Available from major hotels
- Haramain Train Station: Connected bus service to Haram
Rules and Regulations
Adhering to parking regulations ensures smooth experiences for all visitors.
Important Guidelines
❌ No overnight parking exceeding 24 hours without permit
❌ No commercial vehicle activities
❌ No leaving children unattended in vehicles
❌ No smoking within parking premises
❌ No excessive honking
✅ Follow traffic marshal instructions
✅ Maintain speed limit of 20 km/h
✅ Park within designated lines only
✅ Keep valuables hidden or removed
✅ Report suspicious activities immediately
Penalties
| Violation | Fine Amount |
| Unauthorized parking | SAR 150 |
| Blocking emergency exits | SAR 500 |
| Exceeding time limit (repeated) | Vehicle towing |
| Parking in disabled spots (unauthorized) | SAR 1,000 |
Safety and Emergency Protocols
Emergency Features
- Fire suppression systems on all levels
- Emergency evacuation routes clearly marked
- Direct communication with Madinah Civil Defense
- Medical emergency response teams on standby
- Vehicle breakdown assistance available
Emergency Contact Numbers
| Service | Contact Number |
| Parking Management | 920000786 |
| Madinah Traffic Police | 993 |
| Civil Defense | 998 |
| General Emergency | 911 |
Practical Tips for First-Time Visitors
- Arrive early – Especially for Jummah prayers, arrive 2-3 hours before
- Memorize your location – Take photos and note zone/level numbers
- Keep ticket safe – Lost tickets incur maximum daily charges
- Use apps – Nusuk and Eatmarna apps simplify the experience
- Carry cash backup – Payment machines occasionally malfunction
- Dress appropriately – The walk from parking to Haram is part of your visit
- Stay hydrated – Carry water, especially during summer months
- Plan exit timing – Avoid leaving immediately after major prayers
Conclusion
The Masjid al-Nabawi underground parking facility represents Saudi Arabia’s commitment to facilitating worship for millions of Muslims. With its smart technology, comprehensive amenities, and thoughtful design, the 2026 infrastructure ensures visitors can focus on their spiritual journey rather than logistical concerns.
Whether you’re visiting for daily prayers, Umrah, or Hajj, this guide equips you with everything needed for a hassle-free parking experience. Plan ahead, utilize the digital tools available, and enjoy your blessed visit to the Prophet’s Mosque.
FAQs
Is underground parking available at Masjid al-Nabawi?
Yes, Masjid al-Nabawi has a large underground parking facility for visitors and worshippers.
How many cars can Masjid al-Nabawi underground parking accommodate?
It can accommodate thousands of vehicles across multiple underground levels.
Is Masjid al-Nabawi underground parking free or paid?
Most underground parking areas are free, but some nearby facilities may be paid depending on location.
What are the operating hours of Masjid al-Nabawi underground parking?
The underground parking is generally open 24/7 for mosque visitors.
How do I access Masjid al-Nabawi underground parking?
Access points are clearly marked around the mosque perimeter with dedicated entry and exit ramps.
