The hype
Everyone agrees the location is the best in Madinah, but the rooms desperately need a refresh.
Dar Al Taqwa Hotel Medinah
$200-450/ night
Book this if You want to be so close to the Prophet's Mosque that you can practically hear the Imam's breath—location is the only metric that matters to you.
Why People Love It
- Unbeatable location: 3 meters from the main entrance (King Fahd Gate 23)
- Directly opposite the Ladies' Gate (Gate 24/25), making it the #1 choice for female travelers
- The Tea Garden terrace offers a front-row seat to the Haram courtyard atmosphere
Quick Take: An aging grand dame that charges a premium for its address, offering 5-star location with 3.5-star hardware.
Reviewed by @Shamila: I’ve never felt closer to the Prophet (PBUH) than I did staying here. Opening my curtains to see the Green Dome and Jannat Al Baqi every morning was overwhelming. It’s expensive, but for this spiritual proximity, I’d pay it again in a heartbeat.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
You are paying for the 2-minute walk to prayer, not for modern luxury; expect peeling paint or old bathtubs.
- You are traveling with elderly parents or young children and need minimum walking distance
- You are a female solo traveler wanting safe, immediate access to the Ladies' Gate
- You plan to return to your room between every single prayer
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.5
- Housekeeping: Daily and generally thorough, though some reviews mention missed spots under beds.
- Bathroom hygiene: Functional but aging. Look out for worn grout or older fixtures that feel 'grimy' even when clean.
- Maintenance: The weak point. Peeling wallpaper, scuffed furniture, and tired carpets are common complaints.
- Linens & towels: Clean and crisp, standard 5-star quality.
- Odors & scents: Lobby smells of rich Oud; rooms are generally fresh but some older smoking rooms may linger.
Sleepability™
7.5SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- The Adhan (Call to Prayer) from the minarets just meters away
- Street noise from the busy central area if on lower floors
Before you book
Good to know
- Check-in is strictly at 5:00 PM; early arrival often requires booking the previous night.
- Breakfast is often included in higher rates but costs ~100-150 SAR if purchased separately.
- The hotel is dry (alcohol-free) and strictly Halal, like all of Madinah.
What to pack
- Earplugs if you are a light sleeper (though you should be waking up for Fajr anyway)
- Universal power adapter (Type G)
- Walking sandals for the quick dash to the mosque
Room Genie
Best picks
- Deluxe Room with Haram View (High Floor) — worth the upgrade for the view
- Renovated Wing Rooms — ask specifically if any refurbished units are available
Rooms to avoid
- City View rooms on lower floors (can be noisy and dark)
- Rooms near the service elevators (noise complaints)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am traveling for Umrah and requesting a room on a high floor, preferably in a recently renovated wing if available. Quietness is a priority. If a Haram view upgrade is available, please advise.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there a swimming pool?
No. Despite some confusing listings online, there is no pool at this hotel.
How close is the Ladies' Gate?
Extremely close. It is directly opposite the hotel entrance (Gate 24/25 area), a 1-2 minute walk.
Is breakfast included?
It depends on your rate plan. If not, the buffet at Al Marwa is excellent but pricey (~125+ SAR).
Can I check in early?
Rarely. The 5:00 PM policy is strict due to high turnover. Book the night before if you arrive early morning.
Is there a gym?
Yes, there is a fitness center, but it is often men-only or has restricted hours for women. Check current schedule upon arrival.
Is there Wi-Fi?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel, though speeds can vary during peak usage times.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The Tea Garden on the mezzanine level has a secret terrace with a stunning view of the Green Dome — perfect for reflection away from the crowds.
- ✨
Ask the concierge for a 'wheelchair assist' if traveling with elderly; they can sometimes arrange direct access.
- ✨
The breakfast buffet often features a dedicated station for local Madinah dates — don't miss them.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 5:00 PM check-in time is one of the latest in the industry and catches many travelers off guard.
💡The 'Mosque Speaker' feature in the room lets you listen to the prayer live without opening the window.
💡The elevators can be a bottleneck immediately after prayer times — wait 15 minutes to avoid the crush.
💡Room service menu prices are significantly higher than the many food stalls just outside the door.
💡The lobby scent is a heavy, traditional Oud — some love it, others find it overpowering.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Dar Al Taqwa Hotel Medinah is located and what's nearby.