Taking the kids for Umrah? You know that heart-stopping moment when your little one tries to run away in the middle of a crowded place?

Kids just want to run, even at Masjid Al Haram or Masjid Al Nabawi! It can be really stressful for parents. You're trying to focus on your ibadah, but you're also watching them every second, so that they cannot run away. In those big crowds and long lines, a little distraction feels risky.

But here’s the good news!

The Saudi authorities have measures in place to help families. They've made it much less stressful, so parents don't have to worry quite as much. Do not panic, even if your kid wanders off.

It’s a big relief and helps make the whole journey more peaceful for everyone.

Children’s Play Area and Nursery in Masjid Al-Haram

Good news for parents, there is a play area and a nursery for kids in Masjid Al-Haram. These centers are managed by the General Authority for the Care of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque. These areas allow parents to pray peacefully while trained staff look after their children and keep them busy in different activities. The Play Area and Nursery are located in the Third Expansion, closer to the Haram Emergency Hospital, near Gates 100 to 104. These areas are chosen for the kids' safety, because these areas are less crowded and make drop-off and pickup easy. These areas can accommodate up to around 1,500 children per day.

These Centers accept young boys up to about 6–8 years and girls up to 9–10 years, though the exact range may vary by season. Babies and Infants are usually not accepted. Inside, trained staff take care of children and provide them with light kid-friendly food, rest areas, and activities. It is important to understand that these are not schools or daycare centers; these are regarded as temporary centers for kids, so that parents can perform Umrah and other prayers without any kids’ stress.

During busy months such as Ramadan and Dhul-Hijjah, the centers often provide assistance 24 hours a day. At other times, they may operate in daytime or evening shifts. Families are encouraged to confirm timings upon arrival or through official communication channels. The service is free of charge for some hours, after which a small amount of charges are applied, depending on timing and demand.

Childcare Facilities in Masjid Al-Nabawi

In Madinah, just outside Masjid Al-NabawiGate 365 and 1 hour of child care close to Gate 339 provide organized childcare support. The nursery near the Prophet’s Mosque is open during major seasons and sometimes throughout the year, depending on the demand. It is also managed by the trained staff. Like Masjid Al-Nabawi child care centres, these are also not day care or educational institutes. These centers are designed to provide help to parents offering prayers in Masjid Al-Nabawi.

Child Identification Wristbands

One of the most effective new services is the child identification wristband system in Makkah and Madinah. In Makkah, special self-service machines are installed at key entrances of Masjid al-Haram. Parents enter the child’s name and a contact number. The machine, upon receiving details, prints a wristband. If a child becomes separated, security or volunteers can immediately call the parent and reunite them quickly with the help of the mobile number printed on the wristband.

In Madinah, like Makkah, child safety bracelets are provided at service desks during high seasons such as Ramadan and Hajj. These bands are simple, durable, and recognized by mosque staff. They know how to handle these cases and help parents find their child. Parents are encouraged to use these bracelets every time they bring children to crowded areas. 

Stroller Rules

Umrah pilgrims are not allowed to disrupt the crowd flow by any means. For this, strollers are not allowed in the Mataf or inside the highly crowded area. A wheelchair is allowed for a disabled child, but strollers are not allowed. The same rules apply to Masjid Al Nabawi. 

Practical Tips for Parents

Families should take a few practical steps for smoother visits. Choose less crowded prayer times. Dress children in bright or unique colors to make them easy to identify. Keep a small card with your name, hotel, and contact number in your child’s pocket, even if they are wearing a bracelet. Take short breaks in open courtyards when children get tired or overwhelmed. Bring snacks or juices for children so that they don’t disturb you for food. It is important to ensure you These small steps can make the experience peaceful and rewarding for the entire family.