Lost and Found Services at Masjid al-Haram and Masjid al-Nabawi
Why Lost and Found Services Are Essential for Pilgrims
Makkah and Madinah are the most sacred cities in Islam, where millions of pilgrims and tourists visit each year for Hajj, Umrah, and Ziyarah. These journeys offer an unparalleled spiritual experience, moments of deep connection, reflection, and gratitude. Yet amidst the excitement, crowds and intense schedule, it can sometimes result in lost belongings.
Whether you have lost a pair of shoes, bags or even important documents, you don't need to worry. The Saudi authorities have implemented quick, efficient and organised Lost and Found services at both Masjid al Haram and Masjid al Nabawi. This service helps pilgrims to recover their belongings with ease and dignity.
This practical guide explains where to go if you lose or find belongings in the sacred mosques, how these services work and helpful tips to avoid losing your items during the pilgrimage.
Why Lost And Found Services Matter
Visiting the sacred Masjid al-Haram and Masjid al-Nabawi is a dream of every Muslim. These sacred sanctuaries welcome over 2 million pilgrims during the Hajj season alone and millions more throughout the year for Umrah and Ziyarah.
Just imagine millions of people gathered in one place only to please and connect with Allah (SWT), striving to purify their hearts and souls and humbly submitting themselves before Him. In such massive crowds, it's common to lose track of your belongings, sometimes even wallets and passports.
By knowing exactly where and how to report lost or found items, you save valuable time, reduce stress, and keep your focus on ibadah.
Lost and Found Services at Masjid al-Haram (Makkah)
Let’s begin by understanding the lost and found services at the most sacred mosque in Islam, Masjid al-Haram. You can easily find the lost and found office (مكتب المفقودات) at Gate 79, near the Ajyad area, towards the southern side of the mosque.
How to Report or Retrieve an Item
If you lose something, whether your wallet, shoes, phone or any other item, first do not panic, and go to the Lost and Found office at Gate no 79. Inform the authorities and describe your item clearly. For valuable items, the authorities will ask you to present your ID.
If you find an item, hand it to one of the security personnel or take it directly to the Lost and Found Office. For critical items like passports or IDs, you may also be directed to the Police station.
Services & Facilities :
- The Lost and Found office remains open 24/7 during peak seasons and extended hours outside Hajj.
- The authorities and staff are friendly, helpful and multilingual. They know English, Urdu, Arabic and other common languages.
- The office is equipped with digital records to track and match items efficiently.
Lost and Found Services at Masjid al-Nabawi (Madinah)
Now, let's understand the Lost and Found services at the second most sacred mosque, Masjid Al-Nabawi. Pilgrims can find the office at Gate 367, located near the southern courtyard, and facilities that serve the women’s prayer area.
How to Report or Retrieve an Item
When you lose or find something, report it to any security personnel, and they will guide you to the Lost and Found Office at Gate 367. The staff and authorities at the office take descriptions of the missing item, check their inventory of recovered items, and assist with retrieval.
Valuables or sensitive items like passports and cash may also be registered with the Madinah Police Unit.
Services & Facilities :
- The lost and found office is open for the whole day.
- At the office, you will find helpful and friendly staff who are trained to secure and record all items responsibly.
- Belongings of the pilgrims are stored for a period before being transferred to the authorities if unclaimed.
The authorities strive to help pilgrims recover their lost items, allowing them to focus on their ibadah with peace of mind.
Helpful Tips To Avoid Losing Belongings
Hajj and Umrah are spiritually profound acts of worship, and pilgrims perform them with sincere intentions and heartfelt devotion. While the full focus is on performing the rituals with excellence, it is common that many pilgrims lose items and belongings due to large crowds and a busy atmosphere.
While performing the rituals, you should be mindful of your belongings and be proactive to minimise the risk of misplacing items:
Keep sight on your Valuables
Keep all your valuable items in a small crossbody bag and keep it in sight.
Labelling Things
Label bags with your name, contact details, and hotel information.
Digital Copies
Take photos of important documents (e.g., passport, tickets) in case you need to report them.
Move with Focus
Memorise the Gate Numbers of the Lost and Found office at both mosques to help you navigate back to your belongings.
What If Your Item Isn’t Found Right Away?
Sometimes your item may not be found immediately, so you have to visit the Lost and Found office later. For valuables or critical items, you can also contact the General Presidency of the Two Holy Mosques Affairs via their official portal.
Final Wordings: Worship Without Worry
Losing belongings during your pilgrimage can be stressful and can hinder your devotion. Thanks to the well-organised Lost and Found services at Masjid al Haram and Masjid al Nabawi, you can recover your items efficiently and continue your ibadah with complete focus and excellence.
At Itimaar, we strive to equip you with practical knowledge and spiritual guidance for a seamless, enriching pilgrimage. From planning your Umrah or Hajj to sharing helpful tips like these, our mission is to make your journey truly meaningful.
Fequently Asked Questions
Where is the Lost and Found office in Masjid al-Haram?
The Lost and Found office at Masjid al-Haram is located near Gate 79 on the Ajyad side of the mosque. Pilgrims who lose or find belongings can visit the office or speak to security personnel for assistance.
How can I report a lost passport or wallet in Masjid al-Nabawi?
If you lose a passport, wallet, or other valuable item at Masjid al-Nabawi, report it immediately to the nearest security officer or visit the Lost and Found office near Gate 367. Sensitive documents may also be registered with the Madinah Police Unit.
What should I do if I lose my belongings during Hajj or Umrah?
Stay calm and visit the nearest Lost and Found office as soon as possible. Provide a detailed description of your item and present identification if required. Many recovered items are digitally recorded, making it easier for authorities to match them with their owners.
Are Lost and Found services available 24 hours in Makkah and Madinah?
Yes. During Hajj and peak Umrah seasons, Lost and Found services operate 24/7 at Masjid al-Haram and throughout the day at Masjid al-Nabawi, helping pilgrims recover lost belongings quickly and efficiently.
