Visiting Masjid Al Nabawi in Medina is a deeply spiritual experience. But for families traveling with young children, balancing acts of worship with childcare can be a challenge. Thankfully, Medina has thoughtfully considered this. One such thoughtful addition is a Free Play Area for Kids just outside Masjid Al Nabawi — a blessing for parents and a delight for children!

🎈 A Safe & Fun Space Just Steps from Spiritual Serenity

Located near the outer gates of Masjid Al Nabawi, this indoor play area provides a dedicated space for kids to play, unwind, and enjoy themselves while their parents or guardians focus on worship. It’s clean, air-conditioned, and managed by trained staff — making it a trusted space for both locals and pilgrims.

Whether you’re attending a prayer, attending a lecture, or just want to give your child some time to play after a long day, this space is perfectly located and thoughtfully managed.

⏱️ First Hour is FREE!

Yes, you read that right — the first hour is completely free! This is ideal for short visits to the mosque, letting children enjoy some time to themselves while parents can pray in peace.

Here’s a quick pricing breakdown:

• 🕐 1st Hour: Free

• 🕑 2nd Hour: Approx. 20 SAR (Riyals)

This cost-effective model makes it an affordable solution for parents who might need longer time in the Haram area. It’s one of the few play zones so close to the Prophet’s Mosque that offers such flexible pricing.

🧸 What’s Inside?

The play area is filled with colorful, soft-padded structures designed for children under 10. It includes:

• 🎠 Mini slides

• 🧗 Climbing blocks

• 🧩 Interactive games

• 🧃 Snack area with water and juices (for sale)

• 🧍‍♀️ On-site supervisors ensuring safety

All equipment is child-safe, regularly cleaned, and designed to offer physical and mental stimulation.

👪 A Lifesaver for Pilgrim Parents

For families performing Umrah or visiting Masjid Al Nabawi for multiple prayers each day, it’s not always easy to manage young kids. This play area helps bridge the gap:

• ✅ Parents can worship with khushoo (focus)

• ✅ Kids stay entertained and engaged

• ✅ Families avoid burnout from long prayer sessions

• ✅ Gives a little normalcy to children amidst travel

This facility shows Medina’s family-friendly approach to pilgrimage tourism — ensuring even the youngest visitors are taken care of.

📍 Where Exactly Is It?

The play area is just outside Gate 365 (near the women’s prayer area), often close to shops and cafes, making it accessible for both short and long mosque visits. It’s typically open during day and evening hours, including Taraweeh and Friday prayers.

💡 Pro Tips for Parents

• 🧕 Dress modestly: Though it’s a kids’ zone, Medina’s dress code applies.

• 📱 Carry a local SIM: In case the play center staff needs to reach you.

• 🧼 Hygiene wipes: While the center is clean, it’s always good to have your own sanitizing essentials.

• ⏳ Keep track of time: Extra hours are chargeable after the first free hour.

🌟 Final Thoughts

The Free Play Area near Masjid Al Nabawi is not just a convenience — it’s a well-thought-out service for Muslim families who want to maintain both their spiritual commitments and their responsibilities as parents. It reflects the hospitality and foresight of Medina, welcoming visitors from across the globe and making their stay meaningful, stress-free, and memorable.

So next time you’re in Medina with kids, remember: prayer and play can beautifully co-exist — right near the doors of one of Islam’s holiest places. 🌙