সালাত

মসজিদুল হারাম in মক্কা মুকাররমা does not have strictly segregated women-only সালাত areas in the same way as many other মসজিদs — men and women pray in the same general space, though women tend to congregate in certain areas by convention. Women may pray on any floor of the মসজিদ — the ground floor, mezzanine levels, and rooftop. The ground floor around the তাওয়াফ area is mixed, with no gender separation during তাওয়াফ. For সালাত, women often prefer the outer sections of the ground floor, the first-floor galleries, or the air-conditioned upper floors. The rooftop level is popular among women for its spaciousness and fresh air, particularly during Taraweeh সালাতs in Ramadan. Women's ablution facilities and restrooms are located at multiple points around the মসজিদ perimeter, clearly marked with signs in Arabic and English. During peak times, knowing the locations of the less-crowded restroom blocks (typically those further from the main gates) saves significant time.

মসজিদে নববী in মদীনা মুনাওয়ারা has more clearly defined women's সালাত areas. The main women's section is located in the eastern part of the মসজিদ, accessible through designated women's gates. Women's areas are identifiable by distinctive colored carpeting and barrier markers. Additional women's সালাত space is available on the upper floors and in the expanded courtyard areas during overflow periods. The মসজিদ has dedicated women's entrances with security screening, separate from men's entrances. Women's ablution areas are located near the women's gates and are generally well-maintained. During peak সালাত times (Fajr, Maghrib, and Isha), arriving 30 to 45 minutes early is মুস্তাহাব to secure a comfortable spot. The courtyard surrounding the মসজিদ features retractable umbrellas that provide shade during daytime, and women may pray in these courtyard areas during overflow.

Both মসজিদs have improved accessibility significantly in recent years. Elevators and escalators connect all levels, and wheelchair-accessible paths are available throughout. Women with mobility challenges should enter through gates that have direct elevator access — মসজিদ staff at any entrance can direct you. For nursing mothers, quiet corners on the upper floors of both মসজিদs provide relatively private spaces. Bring a small সালাত mat for personal comfort, especially if praying on the marble floors of the courtyard areas. Air conditioning inside both মসজিদs can be quite cold, particularly on upper floors — bringing a light shawl or jacket is advisable. Mark the gate number you entered through, as the vast size of both মসজিদs can make finding your exit disorienting. Lost-and-found services are available at both মসজিদs for items left behind.