Site of the Battle of Badr in 624 CE, with the martyrs' cemetery and Al-Arish Mosque, about 90 minutes from Madinah.
The Battle of Badr site lies in Badr Governorate in Saudi Arabia's Al Madinah Region, southwest of Madinah, and is among the best-known early Islamic historical sites. Sources put the distance at 120 to 150 km, with Saudipedia giving 150 km, and a regional travel magazine gives about 90 minutes of driving on a well-maintained road through desert, dunes and hills. The area includes the battlefield, a martyrs' cemetery and Al-Arish Mosque, according to the Madinah investment authority. No source found states restrictions on non-Muslim visitors at Badr, which lies well outside the Madinah precinct rules, but no source confirms access either, so non-Muslim visitors should confirm before going. Public transport was not found, so most visitors hire a car with driver or join a ziyarah tour. Visitors should dress modestly, carry water, and note that shade and food are limited at the site itself. In an emergency dial 911 (unified emergency number) or 997 for a Saudi Red Crescent ambulance. Badr is best in the cool months; summer midday is harsh.
| Distance | About 130-150 km southwest by road (sources range from 120 to 150 km) |
|---|---|
| Travel time | About 90 minutes each way by car |
| Getting there | Hired car with driver or Uber/Careem day booking, about 90 minutes each way; no direct public bus was found |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Address | Badr Battlefield (Ghazwat Badr), King Faisal Road, Al Shuhada, Badr, Madinah Region, Saudi Arabia |
How to get there
- Mode
- Hired car with driver (day rate)
- Cost
- Agree in advance; SAR 400-700 (~$107-187, estimate)
- Frequency
- On demand
- Mode
- Self-drive rental car
- Cost
- Rental plus fuel; confirm daily rates with the rental desk
- Frequency
- On demand
- Mode
- Guided ziyarah tour
- Cost
- Prices vary by operator; book through a tour platform
- Frequency
- Daily on request
Location
Badr Battlefield (Ghazwat Badr), King Faisal Road, Al Shuhada, Badr, Madinah Region, Saudi Arabia
23.7723, 38.7896 View on map
Highlights
- Battlefield of the Battle of Badr, a pivotal event in early Islamic history
- Cemetery of the martyrs of Badr
- Al-Arish Mosque marker site
- Desert and dune scenery along a well-maintained road
Tips for visiting
- Start early and carry water; shade is limited at the site.
- Agree the day rate and waiting time with the driver before leaving.
- Dress modestly and respect the cemetery.
- Confirm access and opening with local tourism staff the day before.
- Fill the fuel tank in Madinah if self-driving.
- Combine with lunch in Badr town.
When to visit
Early morning from November to March.
Accessibility
The site is open ground with uneven surfaces; parts can be seen from the car, but full access is difficult for wheelchair users.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Badr from Madinah?
Sources give 120 to 150 km, about 90 minutes by car.
Is there a bus?
No direct public bus was found; visitors use a hired car or a tour.
Is there an entry fee?
No entry fee was found.
Can non-Muslims visit?
No restriction was found in the sources used, but none confirmed access either, so check before going.