Interested In Doing Itikaf in Madinah
What we do
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Daily Prayers
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Family Counseling
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Social Welfare
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Itikaaf in Medina
Itikaaf in Medina
Itikaf is the virtuous act of secluding oneself in worship during the month of Ramadan
Permit Requirement:
Itikaaf in Medina necessitates obtaining a permit through the "Visitors" mobile application. However, the application process can be intricate, as the app is only operational for a limited duration during Ramadan. It's vital to have a Saudi contact who can notify you when the application window opens. An active Saudi local number is required for verification before an application can be submitted, and the permit issuance, albeit vital, lacks notification. It typically surfaces within the "My Services > Itikaf service" section of the Visitors app, and can be as late as within three days of the Itikaf commencement.
Group Coordination:
Consider forming a group of three or four individuals for support, logistics and enhance cost-effectiveness.
Visa and Currency
Ensure possession of a valid UK visa suitable for your travel needs. This can be procured online through https://visa.mofa.gov.sa/ , with various options available. The application requires electronic photograph and passport images. It's advisable to carry Saudi riyals in advance, as currency exchange services may be unavailable upon arrival. Additionally, there's an immediate need for purchasing a SIM card or paying for transportation.
Flight Booking Considerations
Evaluate whether to book flights in advance or await the Itikaaf permit. While advance booking secures cheaper fares, waiting for permit ensures that Itikaaf allocation has been made. Determine Umrah plans (ideally before Itikaaf start as it is very virtuous to perform in Ramadan) and flight schedules accordingly, factoring in sufficient time for both activities and assuming that Ramadan may be 30 days. Try to book flights departing after Maghrib salaah (i.e. avoiding salaah in flight) where possible. If it is unavoidable, you can calculate the flight prayer times using In-flight prayer times calculator for airplane travel | Halal Trip. Also try to avoid arriving in Mecca during salaah times as taxis are unlikely to get close to Masjid al Haram
Travel Arrangements
Decide between train and taxi travel based on the number of travellers and luggage. While fast train links between Medina, Mecca, and Jeddah exist, booking a taxi is recommended for groups of four or more, especially with elderly members or substantial luggage. It's worth noting that the train to Jeddah may not terminate at the departure terminal, necessitating shuttle service with a 15-20 minute journey time. Pre-booking taxis from the UK, if feasible, minimizes delays, albeit potentially incurring additional costs. Negotiating taxi fares at the airport is advisable, with preference for drivers fluent in your language and avoiding taxi share to minimize delays.
Essential Items to Carry
Restrictions on what is allowed into the Mosque continues to change, however essential items such as Ihram (in hand luggage if doing umrah first), sleeping gear, toiletries, spare clothing (keep one pair in hand carry in case check-in luggage gets misplaced), battery pack and snacks are indispensable. Pillows, sheets, chairs etc. are given out to those performing Itikaaf in the Mosque, though these may arrive a few days later. Volunteers also hand out large durable plastic bags. Be sure to grab one of these for placing all your belongings in the advent of rain. Pack compactly, prioritizing hand luggage for crucial items, and prepare for diverse weather conditions with warm clothing. In the case where certain items aren’t allowed, it can be invaluable to have a contact nearby that can collect and safeguard the items until the Itikaaf completes.
Understanding Mosque Boundaries
Familiarize yourself with the delineated Itikaaf areas and access points at the Prophet's mosque. There are sections of the roof that require permit for entry whilst others are open for all Itikaaf brothers. Clarify boundaries with local scholars or contacts in Medina, as opinions may vary regarding permissible areas. Additionally, acquaint yourself with nearby toilet facilities, considering variations in congestion, particularly during prayer times.
Entry into the Mosque
Familiarize yourself with designated entry points, escalators at gates 6 and 10 on the west side. Arriving early on 20th Ramadan is advisable to secure a favourable spot, entrances open after Dhuhr salaah. Be prepared for queues and waiting times, exercising patience for eventual entry. Opt for spots under solid ceilings on the roof to mitigate rainfall impact, avoiding areas prone to water drainage. All belongings in these areas need to be packed up in the event of rain in order for the staff to remove all carpets.
Wristbands and Permits
To access the designated areas for Itikaaf on the roof, you'll need to present the permit from the Visitors app every time you enter. The app must have a connection to display the permit and screenshots have been disabled by the app. Therefore, ensure your phone is charged beforehand. Charging points on the roof and staircases are limited and often crowded by others, so plan accordingly. Obtain wristbands early from the volunteers to facilitate entry into permitted areas without repeated mobile app verification
Food and Amenities
While food packs are provided, supplement with additional snacks to ensure sufficiency. Tea and kahwa is given out by various individuals in the Mosque. Adhere to Mosque regulations regarding food consumption, restricting it to designated areas.
Spending time
Dedicate most of your time to worship. During 2024 Itikaaf, Isha and Taraweeh prayers started at 8:45pm lasting for approx. 1.5 hours followed by Qayyam-ul-layl prayers at 12:30am, finishing almost 2:30am. Keep a small bag with essentials if going downstairs to avoid frequent trips to the roof.
Vision
Mission
About Us
The mission of the Muslim Association of Virginia (MAV) is to establish and maintain a vibrant community based on the Qur’an and Sunnah that is pleasing to Allah
- The Masjid is the center of spiritual and community life.
- We believe in Allah, His Angels, His Prophets
- The Believers, the Executive Committee
contact@yourname.com
Location
Bain & Company, United States
Office Hours
8AM - 11PM
