Makkah Library, known in Arabic as Maktabat Makkah al-Mukarramah, is a modest two-storey building just east of Masjid al-Haram. It stands on the site that many historians of Makkah identified as the house where the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was born, in the old quarter of Suq al-Layl.
Because the birthplace is not known with certainty, this is a place for quiet reflection on the Seerah rather than for any special act of worship.
The history of Makkah Library and the birthplace
The Prophet ﷺ was born in Makkah in the Year of the Elephant, around 570 CE. When asked about fasting on Mondays, he said, “That is the day on which I was born” (Muslim). The month is generally given as Rabi‘ al-Awwal, but scholars differ over the exact date, with the 8th, 9th, 10th and 12th all reported.
Scholars and historians also differ on the exact house. Later writers on the history of Makkah placed it in the quarter of Banu Hashim near Suq al-Layl, and a small building marked the spot for centuries. Others mention different locations, and there is no authentic hadith that fixes the place.
From house to library
In the mid-twentieth century a library was built on the site, funded by a Makkan benefactor, to serve scholars and students. As the Haram expanded and the old quarters disappeared, Makkah Library was preserved as one of the few older buildings on the eastern side.
What you will see
A simple, pale building with a modest entrance, set back slightly from the wide plaza near the Marwah end of the mas‘a. Signboards in several languages explain that no special acts of worship are prescribed here. The interior has generally been closed to the public, so most people see Makkah Library from outside only.
How to visit Makkah Library
It is only a few minutes’ walk from the Haram’s eastern gates, roughly 300 to 500 metres depending on where you exit. There is no need for transport. Ten minutes is enough to see the building and read the signs. Early morning after Fajr or late evening are the least crowded times; the plaza can be very busy around Jumu‘ah and in Ramadan.
Etiquette at Makkah Library: what the Sunnah teaches
Practical tips
Stay brief
A short stop between prayers is ideal; do not let it crowd out your worship.
Read the Seerah
Read the story of his birth and childhood before you go.
Keep together
The plaza is crowded; choose a numbered gate as your meeting point.
Makkah Library quick facts
| City | Makkah (old Suq al-Layl area) |
|---|---|
| Distance | About 300–500 m east of Masjid al-Haram |
| Time needed | About 10 minutes |
| Best time | After Fajr or late evening |
| Difficulty | Easy: level walk from the Haram |
| Open to visitors | Exterior only; interior generally closed to the public |
Makkah Library
About 400 m east of Masjid al-Haram
Open in Google MapsNearby ziyarat- Masjid al-Haram0.3 km
- Clock Tower Museum0.7 km
- Masjid al-Jinn0.8 km
- Jannat al-Mu‘alla1.0 km
Plan a short walk that includes the library with the ziyarat route planner, then read about the beginning of revelation on our Jabal al-Nour page. All sites are listed on the ziyarat hub, and our Umrah guide covers the rites in the Haram. For general visitor information, see Visit Saudi.
Free toolBuild your Umrah itinerary in one minutePick your nights in Makkah and Madinah and get a day-by-day outline you can bring to us.Open planner →Makkah Library: frequently asked questions
Was the Prophet ﷺ definitely born where Makkah Library stands?
No one can say with certainty. Many historians identified this area, but others mention different places, and no authentic hadith settles it.
Can I go inside?
The interior has generally been closed to the public. Visitors see the building from outside.
Is there a special prayer or dua at the birthplace?
No. Nothing specific is established in the Sunnah. Send blessings on the Prophet ﷺ wherever you are.
Is it far from the Haram?
No. It is a short walk from the eastern side of Masjid al-Haram, near the Marwah end of the mas‘a.
Planning your days in Makkah? Our Makkah city guide has live prayer times, the weather, the local time and every ziyarah in and around the city, including Taif.
Stay steps from the Haram
Tell us your dates and we will suggest hotels within walking distance of the Haram and its historic surroundings.