Renowned singer Maher Zain has come under intense scrutiny after promoting his latest music video in front of Masjid an-Nabawi in Medina.
Critics argue that the promotional activity, which took place during Ramadan 2025 and in proximity to the Prophet’s Mosque, disrespects the sanctity of one of Islam’s holiest sites.
The controversy centers on multiple issues. First, many have taken issue with the free mixing of non-mahram men and women in the video, which goes against traditional norms of gender segregation in sacred spaces.
Such mixing, especially in a place as revered as Masjid an-Nabawi, undermines the spiritual atmosphere that should prevail during the holy month of Ramadan.
A number of his songs are heavily infused with musical instrumentation, which they argue falls outside the accepted boundaries of Islamic nasheed.
Social media platforms have been flooded with strong opinions. One commentator lamented, “Imagine being in Madinah during the blessed month of Ramadan, right before the Prophet’s Mosque, promoting a music video and engaging in free mixing. Have we lost all sense of reverence?” Others have accused the singer of using the holy site merely as a backdrop for commercial gain, questioning whether his actions truly reflect the respect due to the sacred land and the resting place of our Prophet PBUH.
A viral Twitter thread cited a Hadith from Sahih Bukhari (1867), where the Prophet ﷺ declared Medina a sanctuary where “no heresy should be innovated nor any sin committed.” Critics asked, “Would Umar ibn Khattab رضي الله عنه tolerate this behavior near the Prophet’s PBUH grave?”
The video’s timing—during Ramadan—intensified the backlash. Maher Zain has yet to issue a formal response regarding the backlash.
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