How to be a Great Host

1. 🌿 Start with Sincerity

The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day should honor his guest.” (Bukhari & Muslim)

Before the welcome tea is served, the heart should already be open. Ask yourself: Why am I hosting?
When your intention is to share the beauty of Medina and the warmth of your home, everything else flows naturally.

2. 🧹 Create a Clean, Calm Space

Guests are often arriving from long travels, full of emotion, spirituality, or curiosity.
Offer a space that is:

• Clean and uncluttered

• Smells fresh (use oud or bukhoor if they enjoy it)

• Stocked with basics: tissues, prayer mat, water bottle, and towel

A guest should feel that you were expecting them, not just anyone.

3. ☕ Offer Tea, But More Than Tea

In Medina, tea isn’t just a drink — it’s the door to conversation.

• Sit with your guest

• Ask them how their visit is going

• Share something personal about Medina’s history or your family traditions

This moment builds trust — and often becomes the favorite memory of the stay.

4. 🕌 Support Their Spiritual Journey

Many guests are visiting for the first time. Help them navigate:

• Prayer times at Al-Masjid An-Nabawi

• Sunnah visits like Quba Mosque or Uhud

• Quiet time for Qur’an or reflection in your home

Offer prayer mats, Qur’ans, or just space and silence when needed.

5. 🍽️ Make Them Feel Part of the Family

Let guests help with cooking, join in laughter during tea, or even play with the kids.
Involve them in:

• Simple Arabic phrases

• Storytelling over meals

• Local customs like Friday preparation or evening dhikr

“The best meals were not the food — it was feeling like I belonged,” said Sarah from the UK.

6. 🙏 Respect Boundaries, Show Flexibility

Not every guest will want the same level of interaction.

Ask:

• Would you like time alone?

• Would you prefer to eat together or separately?

The best host knows when to be present and when to give space.

7. 💬 Stay in Touch, Even After the Trip

Some guests leave feeling like family. Send a message. Ask about their journey home. Share du‘a.

You were their door into Medina. Keep it open.

💛 Final Thought: Hosting Is an Act of Worship

To host someone with sincerity, adab, and generosity is a form of ibadah.
You never know whose du‘a may change your life.

So be kind. Be present. Be Medina.