The mosque of the Cloud, traditionally the Prophet's Eid prayer ground, marked by white domes. It lies close to the Haram boundary, so non-Muslim access depends on the checkpoint line.
Masjid al-Ghamama, the Mosque of the Cloud, stands in the Al Naqa area just west of the Prophet's Mosque in Madinah, Saudi Arabia. Tradition holds that the Prophet Muhammad prayed Eid prayers on this open ground, and that a cloud shaded him during one such prayer, which gave the mosque its name. The site is within a short walk of the western plaza of the Prophet's Mosque, so it fits neatly into a visit to the central district.
The building is a compact, elegant structure of pale stone topped with a row of small white domes and a single slender minaret. Its proportions are low and horizontal, set apart from the large modern complex nearby, and it sits on a raised platform with a paved forecourt. Inside, the prayer hall is simple, with carpets and a plain mihrab, and it opens mainly at prayer times. Because the mosque lies close to the Haram boundary, non-Muslim access depends on the checkpoint line, and visitors should be prepared to view it from outside.
A visit is brief, usually 15 to 30 minutes, including a short walk across the forecourt and some time for photographs. The best angle is from the paved plaza facing the row of domes, especially in the evening when the stone is lit and the nearby Prophet's Mosque glows in the background. Crowds are heaviest around the five daily prayers and during Ramadan, Hajj and Umrah, while mid-morning is quieter.
The mosque is most easily reached on foot from the western side of the Prophet's Mosque plaza. Modest dress is expected, and visitors should follow staff and signage regarding restricted zones and closing times.
| Admission | Free |
|---|---|
| Hours | Open for prayer times |
| Typical visit | 15 to 30 minutes |
| Best time | Evening |
| Getting there | Walk from the western side of the Prophet's Mosque plaza |
| Address | Al Naqa, Madinah |
Location
Al Naqa, Madinah
24.4658, 39.6070 View on map
Highlights
- The mosque of the Cloud, traditionally an Eid prayer ground of the Prophet
- A row of small white domes and a slender minaret
- A short walk from the western plaza of the Prophet's Mosque
- Evening views with the lit Prophet's Mosque behind
Tips for visiting
- Visit in the evening for the best light and atmosphere.
- Walk from the western side of the Prophet's Mosque plaza.
- Access for non-Muslims depends on the Haram checkpoint line.
- Check prayer times, as the hall mainly opens then.
- Dress modestly and keep conduct quiet around worshippers.
When to visit
Evening gives pleasant light and a calm mood. Prayer times and pilgrimage seasons are the busiest.
Accessibility
The approach is by paved plaza, and the forecourt is level. Interior access is limited to prayer times, and wheelchair users may need assistance at the raised platform.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit take?
A visit takes about 15 to 30 minutes, mostly spent at the forecourt and exterior.
Why is it called the Mosque of the Cloud?
Tradition says a cloud shaded the Prophet during Eid prayers held at this site.
Is photography allowed?
Exterior photography is common. Visitors should avoid photographing people at prayer.
Can non-Muslims visit?
Access depends on the checkpoint line near the Haram boundary, so non-Muslims should confirm on site.