Bani Unaif Mosque: A Prophetic Landmark of Historical Significance in Madinah

Madinah stands as a living memory, pulsing with the events of Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) era, the details of the Hijra, and moments from his noble biography. Every corner bears a trace, and every landmark stands as a witness to prophethood. The city is rich with Islamic heritage sites and landmarks that captivate visitors with profound historical and spiritual significance.

 One such landmark is Bani Unaif Mosque, located southwest of Quba Mosque in the Al-Usbah neighborhood, at a distance of no more than 500 meters. It was named after the Bani Unaif clan of the Bali tribe, who were allies of the Quba people at the time.

 The mosque is characterized by its simple design and authentic architecture. It was built using dark basalt stones and has no roof, with a total area of approximately 37.5 square meters. It is surrounded by a stone courtyard planted with palm trees and native shrubs, reflecting a scene of simplicity and authenticity.

 The site underwent meticulous restoration as part of the Madinah Region Development Authority's efforts to preserve prophetic landmarks, in line with national initiatives aimed at safeguarding Islamic heritage and enhancing the Kingdom’s architectural identity.

 The restoration works included reinforcing the walls with traditional wooden columns, covering the floor with white marble, and installing lighting units that complement the historical character. The restoration project was cooperatively carried out between the authority and the Heritage Commission as part of a strategic partnership aimed at protecting historical sites and enhancing their presence in religious and cultural tourism, in alignment with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.

 The mosque remains a living testament to the Prophetic Hijrah and represents a moment of profound spiritual and human significance. It is included among the cultural and religious tourism projects led by the Kingdom and overseen by the Madinah Region Development Authority as part of a comprehensive vision to introduce visitors to the city’s religious and historical landmarks.

 The “Visit Madinah” platform, launched by the authority, contributes to facilitating access to information and tourism services related to this landmark and other historical sites in Madinah through an interactive digital approach. It enables users to explore the historical, cultural, and civilizational components of the city, enriching the visitor experience in Madinah.