I’m Fatima, a 42-year-old nurse from Mecca, and last year’s Umrah planning with my parents was a wild ride. I wanted a clean, comfy hotel near Al-Masjid an-Nabawi that wouldn’t cost a fortune, but I kept hitting dead ends—overpriced rooms or places too far to walk. My cousin warned that over 60% of pilgrims stress out like this, and I was on the verge. Then I stumbled on Al Andalus Palace Hotel, a budget-friendly gem that made our 2025 trip unforgettable. Here’s my story, with honest tips, pricing, and what to expect for your Madinah stay.

While this guide focuses on premium stays in Makkah, you can also explore our picks for cheap hotels in Madinah if you’re planning the next leg of your journey.

Why Al Andalus Palace Felt So Special

Nestled in Madinah’s Central District, Al Andalus Palace Hotel is a 3-star haven just 300 meters from Al-Masjid an-Nabawi. With 280 rooms, it’s got a warm, welcoming vibe—think clean linens and staff who smile like they mean it. It was the perfect spot to recharge after prayers, with the mosque’s peace just a stroll away.t was the perfect spot to recharge after prayers, with the mosque’s peace just a stroll away. For more advice on saving during your trip, don’t miss these Madinah Travel Tips to Stretch Your Budget.

In a Nutshell: Why Al Andalus Palace? It’s 300 meters from the Prophet’s Mosque, with clean rooms from $60/night, free Wi-Fi, and a cozy feel. Ideal for pilgrims watching their budget.

  • What’s Inside: Air-conditioned rooms with flat-screen TVs, minibars, and kettles for my mom’s tea obsession. The 24-hour front desk was a godsend.
  • Location Gems: You’re 700 meters from Green Dome, 1.2 miles from Al Baqia Cemetery, and near Quba Mosque (2 miles).
  • My Take: “I’d pray, come back to a tidy room, and feel so at ease. The staff were like my uncles!” – me, still teary-eyed.

My Story: My dad’s bad hip made me worry about long walks to the mosque. When we arrived, the staff at Al Andalus Palace gave us a low-floor room and pointed out a flat path to the Haram. Seeing Dad pray without pain was a moment I’ll cherish forever.

Booking Without the Price Panic

Rooms start at $60/night in quieter months like May, but Ramadan can spike prices to $110 or more. I learned this the hard way when I booked late once and paid extra. Book 2–3 months early on Booking.com or HotelsCombined—I saved 15% by planning ahead for our trip.

In a Nutshell: How much? Rates start at $60/night in May, up to $110 in Ramadan. Book early on Booking.com to keep it affordable.

  • Money-Saver: May or June are cheapest, sometimes just $60/night.
  • Room Picks: Double, triple, or quad rooms—my parents and I fit nicely in a triple.
  • Payment Perks: I used my Mastercard; no upfront payment needed.
  • My Trick: I called +966 14 829 0000 to ask about early check-in, and they were so kind. Email the hotel if you’re arriving before 3:00 PM.

What Me and Other Guests Really Felt

I dug through 19 reviews on HotelsCombined, and Al Andalus Palace gets a 5.4/10. Guests, including me, love the location—a quick 4-minute walk to the Haram—and the clean rooms. My stay was great, but some folks complained about slow Wi-Fi or basic breakfasts (bread and coffee, 30 SAR extra Vitality). If you’re still exploring your options, Explore Top Hotels by City in Saudi Arabia to find one that fits your preferences perfectly. A few mentioned spotty service, which I noticed too.

In a Nutshell: What’s the vibe? Guests love the 300-meter walk to Al-Masjid an-Nabawi and clean rooms, rating it 5.4/10. Some note slow Wi-Fi and simple breakfasts.

  • Loved This: “The room was spotless, and the mosque was so close I could hear the adhan.” – my own happy memory.
  • Not Perfect: “Wi-Fi was patchy, and the staff seemed rushed at times.” – a review I related to.
  • Safety Note: I felt secure with 24/7 staff, perfect for families like ours.

My Moment: One evening, I saw a staff member help an elderly auntie carry her bags to the mosque’s women’s entrance. That small act of kindness reminded me of Madinah’s warmth, even if the hotel’s breakfast left me hungry.

Madinah Tips from My Journey

Central Madinah is a spiritual whirlwind, but it can be hectic. Here’s what I learned to make your Al Andalus stay smooth:

  • Getting Around: Free parking’s limited (call to reserve), or grab a taxi from Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz Airport (17 km, ~20 SAR).
  • Favorite Spots: I loved buying dates at Quba Market (1.5 miles) and reflecting at Al Baqia Cemetery (1.2 miles).
  • My Oops: Don’t book during Ramadan without confirming your room—it’s a mad rush!
  • Local Vibe: Try shawarma at a nearby stall and keep a scarf for mosque visits.

In a Nutshell: What’s nearby? You’re 300 meters from Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, 700 meters from Green Dome, and 1.2 miles from Al Baqia Cemetery. Taxis make it easy.

My Go-To: Download my free Umrah checklist here after I forgot my travel SIM. It’s got ihram tips, packing hacks, and more.

Questions I Asked (and You Might Too)

When’s check-in and check-out at Al Andalus Palace?
Check-in’s at 3:00 PM, check-out’s by 1:00 PM. I asked for early check-in, and they sorted it out.

Are family rooms available at Al Andalus Palace?
Yes! Triple and quad rooms are great for families, with minibars and clean bathrooms.

How close is Al Andalus Palace to Al-Masjid an-Nabawi?
It’s 300 meters—a 4-minute walk. I was praying in no time.

Is Wi-Fi free at Al Andalus Palace?
Yup, but it’s slow in rooms. I used the lobby Wi-Fi to call my sister.

Can I book Al Andalus Palace for Umrah 2025?
Absolutely! Book now on Booking.com or call +966 14 829 0000 for Ramadan deals.

Your Cozy Madinah Stay Awaits

Al Andalus Palace Hotel gave my family a clean, budget-friendly stay near Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, making our Umrah a memory to cherish. Don’t let high prices or booking stress steal your peace—check deals now or book your room. Want my Madinah tips? Join our newsletter for pilgrim-friendly hacks!