Qibla direction

The qibla is the direction of the Kaaba in Makkah along the shortest path over the surface of the Earth, which is called the great-circle route. The angle is measured clockwise from true north. It is calculated in your browser from the position of your device, or of the city you choose, and the coordinates of the Kaaba (21.4225° N, 39.8262° E). Your location is not sent to us.

A phone compass points to magnetic north, which differs from true north by an amount that depends on where you are. In much of the Middle East and South Asia the difference is small, and in other regions it can exceed ten degrees. Metal objects, speakers and phone cases with magnets also disturb the reading, and moving the phone in a figure of eight recalibrates the sensor. Where accuracy matters, compare the result with the direction used by a local mosque.

The shortest path to Makkah follows the curve of the Earth. From New York that path sets out towards the north-east, at about 58 degrees from north, although Makkah appears to the south-east on a flat map.