Masjid Ayesha, also known as Masjid Al-Taneem or Masjid at-Taneem, is one of the most important mosques in Makkah due to its role as the official Miqat for Umrah for people staying inside the city of Makkah. It serves a clear and specific religious function: allowing pilgrims to exit the Haram boundary, enter the state of Ihram, and lawfully perform Umrah.
Unlike other Miqat points located far outside Makkah, Masjid Ayesha lies just beyond the Haram limits, making it the nearest and most accessible Miqat for pilgrims already in Makkah.
What Is Masjid Ayesha and Why It Is Important
Masjid Ayesha is located in the Al-Hil area, meaning it lies outside the sacred Haram boundary but still close to the city. This location gives the mosque its religious legitimacy as a Miqat point.
Masjid Ayesha as the Miqat for Makkah Residents
According to Islamic rulings, anyone who is already inside Makkah and wishes to perform Umrah must exit the Haram boundary before entering Ihram. Masjid Ayesha fulfills this requirement and is therefore the designated Miqat for Makkah residents, visitors, and pilgrims staying near Masjid al-Haram.
It is commonly used for:
- Performing a second or additional Umrah
- Entering Ihram after completing Hajj
- Women who were unable to perform Umrah earlier due to menstruation
Recommended: Jeddah Airport to Makkah Taxi for Umrah
Religious and Historical Background
The mosque is named after Aisha bint Abu Bakr (may Allah be pleased with her), the wife of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. During the Farewell Hajj, Aisha was unable to perform Umrah due to menstruation. After completing Hajj, the Prophet ﷺ instructed her brother Abdur Rahman ibn Abu Bakr to take her to Taneem, where she entered Ihram and performed Umrah.
This event established Taneem as a legitimate Miqat, and it remains so today.
Historically, the mosque was first constructed during the Abbasid era and later expanded extensively under Saudi rule. Modern renovations have transformed it into a large, well-organized mosque designed to handle heavy pilgrim traffic year-round.
Location of Masjid Ayesha
Masjid Ayesha is located approximately 7.5 kilometers from Masjid al-Haram, on the Madinah highway, north of central Makkah.
Address:
At Taneem, Makkah 24412, Saudi Arabia
Distance from Masjid al-Haram
- Distance: 7–8 km
- Travel time: 15–30 minutes, depending on traffic
- Direction: North of Masjid al-Haram
Recommended: Jeddah Airport Taxi
Haram Boundary and Al-Hil Area
The mosque lies outside the Haram boundary, which is a mandatory condition for a valid Miqat. Entering Ihram inside the Haram without exiting invalidates the Umrah requirement for those already in Makkah.
Is Masjid Ayesha a Miqat for Umrah?
Yes. Masjid Ayesha is a valid and recognized Miqat for Umrah, specifically for people who are inside Makkah.
Who Must Use Masjid Ayesha as Miqat
Masjid Ayesha applies to:
- Residents of Makkah
- Pilgrims staying in hotels near Masjid al-Haram
- Visitors performing multiple Umrah
- Women who delayed Umrah due to menstruation
Pilgrims arriving from outside Makkah must use their assigned Miqat, not Masjid Ayesha.
Facilities and Infrastructure at Masjid Ayesha
Masjid Ayesha is designed entirely around the needs of pilgrims preparing for Ihram.
The mosque includes large prayer halls, extensive ablution areas, and dedicated changing spaces for men and women. Dozens of showers are available, allowing pilgrims to perform Ghusl comfortably. The facilities are clean, well-maintained, and accessible 24 hours a day.
Commercial stalls near the mosque sell Ihram garments, belts, slippers, and basic supplies, making it convenient for pilgrims who arrive without preparation. A large free parking area supports private cars, taxis, and buses.
How to Go to Masjid Ayesha
Reaching Masjid Ayesha from anywhere in Makkah is straightforward.
Taxi Cost from Makkah
- One-way taxi fare: 20–40 SAR
- Round trip (with waiting): 50–80 SAR
- Travel time: 20–30 minutes
Taxis are the most common and flexible option, especially for families and elderly pilgrims.
Bus and Public Transport Options
Government buses operate frequently from areas near Masjid al-Haram. Bus fares are typically 2–4 SAR per person, making them the most economical choice. Buses run throughout the day and night.
How to Enter Ihram at Masjid Ayesha
Entering Ihram at Masjid Ayesha follows a clear religious process.
First, pilgrims perform Ghusl or Wudu using the mosque facilities. Men then wear the two white unstitched Ihram garments, while women wear modest Islamic clothing without a specific color requirement.
After changing, pilgrims pray two rak‘ahs of Sunnah prayer. The intention (Niyyah) for Umrah is then made, followed immediately by the recitation of the Talbiyah.
Once Talbiyah begins, the pilgrim is officially in Ihram and must observe all Ihram restrictions until completing Umrah.
The average time spent inside the mosque is 30–45 minutes.
Best Time to Visit Masjid Ayesha
Masjid Ayesha is open 24 hours daily, all year round.
The best times to visit are late night or early morning, when crowds are lighter. Fridays and peak prayer times are usually more crowded. During Ramadan and Hajj season, waiting times increase, but the mosque remains fully operational.
FAQs
Is Masjid Ayesha a Miqat for Umrah?
Yes. It is the official Miqat for anyone already inside Makkah.
How far is Masjid Ayesha from Masjid al-Haram?
Approximately 7.5 kilometers.
How much is a taxi from Makkah to Masjid Ayesha?
Usually between 20 and 40 SAR one way.
Where is Masjid Ayesha located?
In the Al-Taneem area, north of Makkah, outside the Haram boundary.
Zeeshan is a professional driver and tour guide who has been living and driving in Saudi Arabia for the past 5 years. With deep knowledge of the roads, landmarks, and Ziyarat locations across Makkah, Madinah, Jeddah, and Taif, he helps pilgrims and travelers enjoy safe, smooth, and well-organized journeys. His experience in Umrah transport, city tours, and airport transfers makes him a trusted expert for visitors exploring Saudi Arabia.
