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Your Mecca Vacation

Excellent adventures await when you lock in a vacation package to Mecca. Whether you're a foodie, history enthusiast or just a traveler who loves to see new places, there's something for everyone in this lively city. A trip to Mecca is a great opportunity to do some sightseeing. Check out big-name attractions such as Kaaba , Great Mosque of Mecca and Abraj Al-Bait Towers . Whoever you're going away with and whatever you plan to spend, your ultimate Mecca vacation is just clicks away with Expedia.

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Mecca City Center

You'll enjoy the museums and monuments in Mecca City Center. You might want to make time for a stop at Kaaba or Great Mosque of Mecca.

If you're spending some time in Jabal Omar, Souk Al-Khalil and As-Haabee Exhibition are top sights worth seeing.

60th Street

60th Street is noteworthy for its restaurants, and you can plan an outing to Great Mosque of Mecca and Kaaba while you're in town.

Al Jummayzah

Al Jummayzah might not have many top sights, but Kaaba and Great Mosque of Mecca are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Al Shawqiyyah

While Al Shawqiyyah might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Great Mosque of Mecca and Kaaba.

Mecca Essential Information

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Frequently asked questions, discover the most popular places to visit in makkah, great mosque of mecca.

You can learn more about the history of Makkah when you make a stop at a top site like Great Mosque of Mecca. While in this family-friendly area, you can savor the top-notch restaurants.

Find out about the history of Kaaba, one of the top monuments in Makkah. While in this family-friendly area, you can savor the top-notch restaurants.

Abraj Al-Bait Towers

Find out about the history of Makkah when you spend time at Abraj Al-Bait Towers. While in this family-friendly area, you can savor the top-notch restaurants.

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Introduction:

Embarking on a trip to Mecca is not just another journey; it’s a transformative experience that rejuvenates your soul. At Al Madinah Travels, we’ve facilitated memorable and spiritually uplifting trips to the holy city for over a decade. Whether you’re looking for Umrah packages or Hajj services , we’ve got you covered. This blog post will walk you through planning your sacred journey, what to expect, and how to maximize your spiritual gains.

What Makes a Trip to Mecca So Special?

A trip to Mecca is unlike any other travel experience. The city is home to the Kaaba , the central focal point for Muslims worldwide. Whether you perform Umrah (lesser pilgrimage) or Hajj (more extraordinary pilgrimage), the spiritual rewards and closeness to the divine are unmatched.

Choosing the Right Umrah and Hajj Packages

Selecting the right package is crucial before you embark on your journey to Mecca . Look for options that offer:

• Convenient flight bookings
• Quality accommodation near the Haram
• Transfers between Jeddah, Mecca, and Medina
• Visa assistance
• Guided Islamic tours
• 24/7 customer support

The Ideal Time for Your Mecca Trip

The ideal time for a trip to Mecca for Umrah is during the months of Rabi-ul-Awwal , Rajab, and Sha’ban, whereas Hajj is performed during specific Islamic months. Research and choose a period that suits you, considering work commitments, weather conditions, and crowd levels.

Preparation and Visa Requirements

Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months before the planned travel date to Mecca . Your travel agency can guide you through the visa application process, vaccination requirements, and other essentials.

A Typical Day During Your Mecca Trip

While in Mecca, your day will generally consist of performing Tawaf around the Kaaba, Sa’ee between the hills of Safa and Marwa, and engaging in acts of worship. At Al-Madinah Travels we also offer guided tours to significant Islamic sites around Mecca and Medina to enhance your spiritual experience.

The Journey Home

Your Mecca travel experience continues even after you leave the holy city. The spiritual gains and lessons you acquire stay with you, transforming your life for the better.

A trip to Mecca is more than a pilgrimage; it’s a lifetime journey. Whether you opt for one of our tailor-made Umrah packages or our comprehensive Hajj services, at Al-Madinah travels , we prioritize your spiritual journey

For more details, contact us at 224-202-6845

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• 1.1.1 Early history
• 1.1.2 Medieval times
• 1.1.3 20th century
• 1.1.4 Grand Mosque seizure
• 1.1.5 Modern history
• 2.1 Visa requirements
• 2.2 By plane
• 2.4 By train
• 3.1.1 Al Mashaaer Al Mugaddassah Metro
• 3.3 By foot
• 4.1 Main attractions
• 4.2 Hajj sites
• 5.1 Factories
• 5.2 Museums
• 7.2 Mid-range
• 7.3 Splurge
• 10.1 Overcrowding and stampedes
• 10.2 Extreme weather
• 10.3 Pickpocketing
• 10.4 Construction-related accidents
• 10.5 Female travellers
• 11 Stay healthy
• 12.1 Local etiquette
• 12.2 General etiquette
• 12.3 Photography

Mecca , officially known as Makkah al-Mukarramah ( Arabic : مكة المكرمة, Makkah al-Mukarramah ), is a city in Saudi Arabia and the holiest city in Islam .

Mecca is the birthplace of Prophet Muhammed , the founder of Islam, and Muslims believe the Qur'an was first revealed to Muhammad here. The Great Mosque of Mecca, known as Masjid al-Haram is considered to be Islam's most sacred mosque and Muslims anywhere face toward it when they pray.

Each year, millions of people from around the world flock to Mecca for the Hajj pilgrimage, which is an obligation for all Muslims. This makes Mecca the most visited city in all of Saudi Arabia .

Understand [ edit ]

History [ edit ].

Mecca is generally considered "the fountainhead and cradle of Islam".

Early history [ edit ]

Muslims believe that the history of Mecca goes back to Abraham (Ibrahim) who built the Kaaba with the help of his eldest son Ishmael around 2000 BCE. In 570 CE, Muhammad was born in Mecca. Since those days, Mecca's history and identity has been inextricably linked with Islam.

According to Muslim traditions, in 610, it was in Mecca (inside the Hira cave on the mountain of Jabal al-Nour) where Muhammad the age of 40 received his first revelation from Allah, through the Angel Gabriel. Muhammad then begin preaching. In 622, Muhammad left Mecca for Yathrib (now called Medina ) for fear of being assassinated by the local Quraysh ruling clan, who had declined to accept Muhammad and his beliefs and started persecuting followers of Islam. As Muhammad migrated to Medina and settled there, several armed conflicts followed between followers of Muhammad and local tribes of Mecca, particularly one during which the followers of Muhammad attempted to return to Mecca in 628 for pilgrimage but weren't allowed to enter the city. A peace treaty was eventually signed that allowed followers of Muhammad to return to Mecca. In 629, Muhammad along with thousands of his followers migrated back to Mecca from Medina (where he had lived for 13 years) for a Hajj, known as the first pilgrimage. According to Muslims, the peace treaty was to also include ceasefire for 10 years but after 2 years, the Quraysh violated the truce by slaughtering a group of Muslims. Muhammad and his followers, companions and allies now much stronger in number, so instead of fighting back, they simply marched across the city of Mecca and thereby triggered the surrender of the Quraysh of Mecca. Eventually, Muhammad Islamicized the city and made it the center of Muslim pilgrimage, Hajj, which is one of the five pillars of Islam.

Medieval times [ edit ]

Mecca has been ruled by various dynasties over the last 1500 years. Starting in 1517 CE, with only one short interruption, Mecca and the rest of the Hejaz were under the control of the Ottoman Empire . From the 10th century, the local religious and temporal leaders were the Hashemite Emirs.

20th century [ edit ]

The Hashemites, working with the British intelligence officer Lawrence, led a successful revolt against the Turks during World War I . After the war, (at least as Arabs see it) the British betrayed their allies. Despite wartime promises, there was no independent Arab state in the Levant , only British and French protectorates.

In 1924, Mecca was conquered by the ibn Saud family following a short battle. This was part of the process of founding modern-day Saudi Arabia.

Meanwhile, the British helped put Hashemites on the thrones of Transjordan and Iraq .

Grand Mosque seizure [ edit ]

On 20 November 1979, armed extremists attacked and seized the Grand Mosque, calling for the overthrow of the Saudi royal family. The siege lasted two weeks, until the armed forces of Pakistan and France intervened to assist the Saudi authorities.

The seizure of the Grand Mosque had a profound impact on the Muslim world and changed the course of Saudi Arabia's societal and political direction; after the extremists were captured and executed by the Saudi government, Saudi Arabia adopted a more conservative stance, giving more power to the religious authorities and enforcing Islamic law more strictly. The role of women in Saudi society was completely reduced (female TV presenters were a common sight prior to the seige) and travel to Saudi Arabia became more restricted and regulated.

Modern history [ edit ]

Like any other city around the world, Mecca has its fair share of issues and problems. The Saudi government is routinely criticised for downplaying the severity of incidents during the Hajj, poorly managing the city, and demolishing Islamic heritage sites in the city. It has been estimated that 95% of Mecca's historic buildings, most of which were more than a thousand years old, have been demolished by the Saudi government. Many people from around the world have expressed anger and frustration at this, seeing this as cultural vandalism and an attempt to erase and eradicate Islam's origins and identity.

The Saudi government claims they're trying to accomodate Hajj pilgrims and make them feel comfortable, but some do not agree with that, claiming that the Saudi government is more interested in making Mecca a tourist destination. The Saudi government routinely rejects criticism of how they're managing the city, hitting back at critics by telling them that they are "playing politics" or "interfering" in state affairs.

One notable critic of the Saudi government's management of the city is the Turkish government. A number of Ottoman Empire structures in the city have been demolished, which the Turkish government sees as an attempt to diminish their historical legacy in the city. In 2002, the Ajyad Fortress , an Ottoman citadel that stood on a hill overlooking the Grand Mosque of Mecca, was demolished by the Saudi government to make way for the Abraj Al Bait, a $15 billion project designed to accommodate the vast and growing number of Hajj pilgrims. The Turkish government, as well as others in the international community, unsuccessfully tried to prevent the Saudi government from demolishing the fort.

Recent events, such as the 2015 Mina stampede, have drawn strong responses from governments in Muslim-majority countries. Iran, a country that has long been at odds with the Saudi government, has banned its citizens from going to Mecca for the Hajj a few times (only to reverse the bans later on) after several Iranian pilgrims were killed in separate incidents.

Get in [ edit ]

Visa requirements [ edit ]

For more information on Saudi immigration regulations, please refer to the "Get in" section of the Saudi Arabia article.

If you plan on visiting during the Hajj , you must apply for a Hajj visa.

By plane [ edit ]

Since Mecca is deemed as a sacred and holy land, Mecca is a no-fly zone . There are no airports in the city, and commercial planes are strictly forbidden from flying over the city.

By car [ edit ]

Once you've landed in either Jeddah or Taif , the next step is to drive to the city. Mecca is served by two major highways: Highway 40 and Highway 15 .

• If you are driving from Jeddah, go along Highway 40 . Highway 40 is a well-maintained, modern, multi-lane highway and the journey will take you at least 60 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Expect this highway to be completely jammed and packed during the Hajj or the Umrah , however.
• Another easier way to enter Mecca is through Taif . Just drive along Highway 15 and you will reach Mecca in 60 minutes. Since most Hajj pilgrims fly into Jeddah , expect this highway to be completely free of traffic. If you desire to enter Mecca quickly, it is recommended that you take this route.

If you don't have your own car, you can consider doing the following:

• Hail a taxi at the Jeddah airport to take you to Mecca. You can share the costs with other pilgrims if you choose to do so. Prices might be higher during the Hajj season, so stay alert.
• Hail an Uber to take you to Mecca. Uber works in all major cities in Saudi Arabia.

By train [ edit ]

The quickest way to enter the city is by train. A train ride to Mecca from Jeddah will take you at least 30 or so minutes. The Haramain high-speed railway links Mecca and Medina via Jeddah, and you can directly go to the city from the train station at King Abdulaziz International Airport .

• 21.4176 39.7893 3 Mecca railway station . ( updated Oct 2022 )

By bus [ edit ]

The Saudi Arabian Public Transport Company (SAPTCO) offers bus services to and from the city. A bus ride from Jeddah to Meccah would normally take you 1¼ hours depending on traffic conditions.

SAPTCO also offers a VIP service to Mecca. VIP buses are a lot more comfortable, have free Wi-Fi, and are more spacious. If you're not a citizen of a GCC country, make sure you have a valid passport and the right visa before boarding a VIP bus.

There are many ways in which you can book a bus ride to Mecca. You can do it at a SAPTCO branch, on the SAPTCO app ( iOS , Android ), or on the website. The SAPTCO app is only in Arabic .

• 21.497723 39.794102 4 SAPTCO Station ( ابتكو محطة حافلات الطائف ), Tan'eem neighborhood - Madina road - near Makkah Medical Center Hospital , ☏ +966-12 5204949 , [email protected] . SAPTCO station in Mecca. You can use it to go to your next destination in Saudi Arabia . ( updated Jan 2022 )
• 21.430444 39.817449 5 SAPTCO Al-Haram Station , ☏ +966-515234427 , [email protected] . SAPTCO VIP Bus Station. ( updated Jan 2022 )

Get around [ edit ]

Mecca's transportation network is well developed, however, expect getting around to be a literal hassle during the Hajj; millions of pilgrims are in every nook and corner of the city, and it can take ages to get to one place from another.

By metro [ edit ]

The Al Mashaaer Al Mugaddassah Metro line ( Arabic : قطار المشاعر المقدسة الخط الجنوبي) is the only operating metro line in the city. The metro was built in the year 2010 by a Chinese railway construction firm (China Railway Construction Corporation Limited). It is believed to have the highest capacity of any existing metro in the world, which, truthfully, should come as no surprise to you, considering how millions of pilgrims flock every year to Mecca for the Hajj.

There are plans to fully add another metro network in the near future and this new network, known as Makkah Mass Rail Transit , will consist of four lines: line A, line B, line C, and line D . A total of 88 stations are expected to be served by this intended expansion. Although this sounds impressive, construction contracts have still not yet been awarded as of yet. Once construction contracts get awarded and the project gets finished, you can expect to get around Mecca with ease and convenience. But that's ages from now.

Al Mashaaer Al Mugaddassah Metro [ edit ]

The Al Mashaaer Al Mugaddassah Metro line has nine stations and is used as an exclusive shuttle train for pilgrims between holy sites in Mecca, Mount Arafat, Muzdalifah, and Mina. As is the case with all transport modes during the Hajj, the metro can be densely crowded and packed, so plan and prepare accordingly.

• 21.418818 39.870853 6 Jamarat (Mina 3) ( قطار المشاعر - محطة منى 3 - الجمرات ), King Abdul Aziz Rd, Al Mashair . The very first station of the Metro. It is approximately 5km away from Masjid Al-Haram. You can reach Masjid Al-Haram in less than five minutes (if going by car) or two hours (if going by foot). ( updated Jan 2022 )
• 21.406404 39.89089 7 Mina 2 ( محطة منى 2 ). ( updated Jan 2022 )
• 21.401115 39.898095 8 Mina 1 ( محطة منى 1 ). ( updated Jan 2022 )
• 21.391611 39.900632 9 Muzdalifah 3 ( قطار المشاعر - محطة مزدلفة 3 ). ( updated Jan 2022 )
• 21.383721 39.907089 10 Muzdalifah 2 ( قطار المشاعر - محطة مزدلفة 2 ). ( updated Jan 2022 )
• 21.379205 39.918193 11 Muzdalifah 1 ( قطار المشاعر - محطة مزدلفة 1 ). ( updated Jan 2022 )
• 21.346792 39.961351 12 Arafat 3 ( قطار المشاعر - محطة عرفات 3 ). ( updated Jan 2022 )
• 21.340996 39.969459 13 Arafat 2 ( قطار المشاعر - محطة عرفات 2 ). ( updated Jan 2022 )
• 21.335853 39.975191 14 Arafat 1 ( قطار المشاعر - محطة عرفات 1 ). ( updated Jan 2022 )

Being served by two major highways, you can very easily cover the entire city by car. Mecca's road transportation network is well-maintained, organised, and well developed. Roads typically tend to be free of any traffic after the Hajj.

Uber works in Mecca. If you don't feel comfortable driving on Saudi roads, or if you don't have your own car, you can hail an Uber.

By foot [ edit ]

During the Hajj, expect to do lots and lots of walking. A lot of attractions in the city center are within walking distance.

See [ edit ]

As the holiest city in Islam, there are numerous attractions.

Main attractions [ edit ]

• 21.43374 39.75438 8 Al-Haramain Museum ( متحف الحرم شریف ). This museum has a lot of historical artifacts from different eras.  

Hajj sites [ edit ]

Do [ edit ].

There's a lot you can do in Mecca if you plan on sticking around for long.

Factories [ edit ]

• 21.435346 39.756497 1 The Kiswa Factory of the Holy Ka'aba . The only place in Saudi Arabia where Kiswa is traditionally made to mark the beginning of Hajj. ( updated Jan 2022 )

Museums [ edit ]

Parks [ edit ].

• 21.384002 39.876342 5 Hussainiya Park . ( updated Jan 2022 )
• 21.381195 39.877341 6 King Abdullah Garden , Al Mashair . ( updated Jan 2022 )

Buy [ edit ]

While in Mecca, many pilgrims purchase trinkets to remember their time and souvenirs to bring back to family and friends. Zamzam water is available free. It is consumed in Mecca and brought home as a souvenir.

Other items to buy in and around Mecca are: prayer mats and hats, prayer beads and perfume.

Eat [ edit ]

Being one of the most visited cities in the world, you can sample food from all over the world!

Budget [ edit ]

There is an Al-Baik Restaurant adjacent to the Sacred Mosque. You can also try the fullset-chicken with cheap price, even cheaper than KFC.

• 21.419618 39.822361 1 Five Guys , Conrad Hotel, Ibrahim Al Khalil Rd, Ash Shubaikah . A branch of the Five Guys fast food chain. ( updated Jan 2022 )

Mid-range [ edit ]

• 21.419516 39.826416 2 Faisalabad Restaurant , ☏ +966 55 202 7444 , [email protected] . Pakistani restaurant. ( updated Jan 2022 )
• 21.359783 39.792998 3 Relish Joy of Taste , ☏ +966 53 020 9000 . Lebanese restaurant. ( updated Jan 2022 )

Splurge [ edit ]

• 21.420606 39.825879 4 Al Qasr ( 10-15 minutes from Makkah Haramain train station. ), ☏ +966 12571 7888 , [email protected] . Features a wide variety cuisines: Arab, Indian, Moroccan, and Western. ( updated Jan 2022 )
• 21.4206 39.822057 5 The Oasis , The Oasis, Jabal Omar, Ibrahim Al Khalil Street ( Near Masjid Al-Haram ), ☏ +966 12 557 1234 . Serves a wide range of cuisines. SAR 250 (average price for two people) . ( updated Jan 2022 )
• 21.421784 39.822533 6 Al-Rehab Restaurant . 1pm - 11 pm . An Islamic-themed restaurant that offers a great view of Masjid Al-Haram. ( updated Jan 2022 )
• 21.421744 39.822833 7 Al-Tayebat Restaurant . 6am - 10am . A restaurant at the Intercontinental Dar Al Tawhid. Offers a great view of Masjid Al-Haram. ( updated Jan 2022 )
• 21.352921 39.895264 8 Gurkan Şef Steakhouse , ☏ +966 55 928 8684 . One of the four branches of a Turkish steakhouse chain. ( updated Jan 2022 )

Drink [ edit ]

During the Hajj, you can try some Zamzam water , which is believed to be divinely blessed. As this is Saudi Arabia, the sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages is virtually non-existent.

• 21.421944 39.822447 1 Zamzam Cafe . 9AM–1AM . A cafe at the Intercontinental Dar Al Tawhid. You can enjoy cold drinks, tea, coffee accompanied by lovely snacks on the side. ( updated Jan 2022 )

Sleep [ edit ]

Mecca has a plethora of hotels. Prices vary depending on the hotel's proximity to the Holy Mosque. Some of the world's greatest hotels are situated in Mecca, and are full year-round. Make sure to book early, as soon as you know your dates of travel.

• 21.421784 39.822533 2 Intercontinental Dar al Tawhid Makkah ( The Inter-Continental ), Ibrahim Al Khalis St ( Just Outside of Mecca ), ☏ +966-2-541-1111 .  
• 21.42328 39.819759 4 Hilton Makkah Convention Hotel , ☏ +966 12 526 0000 . Offers majestic views and is close to Masjid Al-Haram. ( updated Jan 2022 )
• 21.402013 39.878921 5 Park Inn by Radisson Makkah Aziziyah , 2516 Al Masjid Al Haram Road AlMursalat District , ☏ +966 1255 99100 . ( updated Jan 2022 )
• 21.419163 39.823975 6 Swissôtel Al Maqam , King Abdul Aziz Endowment , ☏ +966 (12) 577 5888 , [email protected] . ( updated Jan 2022 )
• 21.381127 39.874021 7 Four Points by Sheraton Makkah Al Naseem , Third Ring Road, Al Naseem District at Al Rajhi Mosque , ☏ +966 12 550 8999 . ( updated Jan 2022 )
• 21.420067 39.824648 8 Pullman Zamzam Makkah , Abraj Al Bait Complex, King Abdel Aziz Endowment , ☏ +966 15715555 , [email protected] . Located in the Abraj Al Bait complex, adjoining Masjid Al-Haram. ( updated Jan 2022 )

Stay safe [ edit ]

Mecca in general is a safe city, but one should take extra precautions during the annual Hajj pilgrimage.

The various safety tips found in the Saudi Arabia article will come in handy. Refer it to often to stay out of trouble.

Overcrowding and stampedes [ edit ]

Overcrowding and stampedes are not unusual in Mecca . Since the development of air travel, pilgrims have been able to access the city much easily than before (earlier people used to travel to Mecca by boat or by other means), and as a result, the city's capacity can be completely overwhelmed.

If you're travelling with family members or with a friend, stick together . Supervise your children (if you have any) closely to make sure they are close to you and are not lost among the crowd.

In September 2015, approximately 2,236 pilgrims were trampled upon and killed in Mina, an incident regarded as the worst ever stampede in the city. The stampede drew extremely strong responses from Muslim-majority countries, with some blaming the Saudi government for being negligent and downplaying the severity of the incident, and the Iranian government (Iran had the highest casualty toll in the stampede) was angered to such a great extent that they went as far as banning their citizens from performing the Hajj in 2016.

Extreme weather [ edit ]

Mecca has a hot desert climate and temperatures regularly reach as high as 50°C (120°F) during the summers.

As is the case throughout the Middle East , always check weather conditions and hydrate often; you can very easily get exhausted, lethargic, and dehydrated if you do not take the necessary precautions.

Pickpocketing [ edit ]

There are many dishonest people and groups that often try to take advantage of the Hajj pilgrimage and/or the Umrah to deprive people of their personal property. You should not assume that Mecca only attracts the honest.

When traversing through the crowds, keep your valuables safe. Err on the side of safety and don't take any unnecessary risks. If you have been the victim of theft, call the police. Saudi authorities treat theft very seriously, largely because of a zero-tolerance justice system.

Construction-related accidents [ edit ]

The Saudi authorities invest heavily into construction projects designed to cater to Hajj pilgrims, and this has, on occasion, caused a few construction-related accidents.

In 2015, a crawler crane in the Grand Mosque collapsed, killing 111 pilgrims and injuring dozens of others. In the event something is being renovated or constructed, do not walk close to any construction site. Give all renovation sites a wide berth.

Female travellers [ edit ]

Since 2018, female pilgrims have spoken up about sexual abuse and harassment experienced on the Hajj. Although it is unlikely you'll experience severe harassment, don't be afraid to create a scene and don't feel the need to be polite in the event someone harasses you; no woman would be expected to put up with rotten behaviour like that.

The Hajj is time-consuming and can take a huge toll on your physical health. Many pregnant pilgrims suffer miscarriages during the Hajj. If you are expecting soon or if you are recuperating from an illness, it is strongly recommended that you postpone your trip.

Stay healthy [ edit ]

There are several hospitals in Mecca.

• 21.436028 39.853968 1 King Faisal Hospital , ☏ +966 12 526 3200 .  

Respect [ edit ]

As the holiest city in Islam , appropriate religious prohibitions and attitudes should be in order. When you're here for either the Hajj or the Umrah, remember to eschew from the following: smoking, engaging in sexual relations, using foul language, shaving your hair and cutting your nails .

Local etiquette [ edit ]

The various respect tips found in the Saudi Arabia article are of immense help. Familiarise yourself with Saudi etiquette before entering Mecca.

Refrain from pontificating about the Saudi government's construction campaign in the city; the issue is very sensitive among some.

General etiquette [ edit ]

You are bound to meet people from all over the world. Be open to new experiences, and don't feel afraid of communicating with anyone. Approach people with a positive attitude and you are apt to make friends; a gruff, impatient attitude may generate resentment.

Photography [ edit ]

It's actually forbidden to take photographs inside the Masjid Al-Haram , but the rules are not rigorously enforced. In fact, it is quite common to see people clicking away happily with their smart phones inside the mosque. You would, however, arouse suspicion from the staff if you come in with a fancy camera.

There's some disagreement on whether or not people should take photographs inside the Masjid Al-Haram. Although some don't see it as a big deal and will happily share their photographs with others, many others consider it incredibly disrespectful .

If you feel the need to take a photo, don't engage in "touristy" behaviour (i.e. acting like you're seeing a place for the first time in forever) and don't conduct yourself in a way that would be perceived as disruptive or annoying. Always be considerate to the people around you; chances are, other people take things more seriously than you do!

Connect [ edit ]

The four mobile operators in Saudi Arabia, incumbent Al Jawal , Emirati rival Mobily , Kuwaiti Zain (Vodafone Network) and STC newcomer Jawwy [dead link] are fiercely competitive, with good coverage (in populated areas) and good prices.

You should be able to get a prepaid SMS at major airports, or at local shops nearby.

Go next [ edit ]

If you plan on spending some time in the Mecca Province, consider visiting the following cities:

• Medina — Islam's second holiest city. Unlike Mecca, Medina is open to non-Muslims.
• Taif — the unofficial summer capital of Saudi Arabia. Non-Muslims are allowed to enter.
• Jeddah — the second largest city in Saudi Arabia, known for the traditional coral houses in its old town.

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Mecca is only accessible by Muslims, who often describe the moment they first lay eyes on the city's sacred Kaaba as an overwhelmingly emotional experience. For those living outside the Kingdom, a visit to Mecca – generally spelt 'Makkah' by Muslims and in Saudi Arabia – is a lifelong dream. Coming here to perform the hajj pilgrimage is a religious obligation for all Muslims who are financially and physically able to do so.

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A Trip To Mecca: The Best Guide For Muslim Tourists

Whether you’re a Muslim or not, at least once you’ve heard about the city of Mecca . Mecca is a city located in Saudi Arabia that is considered by Muslims to be the holiest place in Islam . Every year, millions of Muslims make a pilgrimage (known as the hajj) to Mecca, and it is also a popular destination for Muslim tourists from all over the world.

Our guide, written by experts will cover everything you need to know about planning a trip to Mecca, including how to get there, where to stay, what to see and do, and how to make the most of your experience. We’ll also provide some valuable tips for staying safe and avoiding cultural misunderstandings.

Introduction: Why Visit Mecca?

Mecca is the holiest city in the Islamic faith and a mandatory pilgrimage site for all able-bodied Muslims. Located in present-day Saudi Arabia, Mecca was where the Prophet Muhammad was born and received the revelation of the Quran. For people who follow Islam, Mecca is a place of great religious significance and a reminder of the central tenet of their faith: the Oneness of God.

For Muslims, the trip to Mecca is a once-in-a-lifetime religious obligation. Every year, millions of Muslims from all over the world make the journey to Mecca. The trip is an opportunity to perform the hajj or pilgrimage, and to stand in solidarity with other Muslims from all walks of life. Mecca is also a place of great historical and cultural significance.

The city is home to the Kaaba, the holiest site in Islam, as well as the Al-Masjid al-Haram, the largest mosque in the world. For many Muslims, visiting Mecca is a deeply moving and spiritual experience. It is a chance to connect with their religion on a personal level and to feel closer to God.

How to Get There: Flights, Trains, and Buses

The best way to get there is by plane. There are direct flights to Mecca from major airports all over the world, including London, Paris, New York, and Dubai. You can also take a train or bus to Mecca, but these options are less convenient and usually take longer. The journey by bus or train is also more expensive.

Before your trip to Mecca, it is important to check the visa requirements of Saudi Arabia in advance. Citizens of many countries, including the United States, will need to obtain a special visa to enter the country.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Mecca

When planning a trip to Mecca, it’s important to choose the right place to stay. There are a few things to keep in mind, such as proximity to the holy sites and the overall atmosphere of the hotel. Luckily, there are plenty of great options in Mecca, so you’re sure to find the perfect place for your needs.

If you’re looking for a luxurious and modern hotel, the Ritz-Carlton Mecca is a great choice. It’s located just minutes from the Grand Mosque, making it convenient for those who want to spend time praying and exploring the holy city. The hotel also has an on-site spa and restaurant, so you can relax and enjoy yourself during your stay.

For a more traditional trip , consider staying at the Dar Al Tawhid Hotel. This hotel is located right next to the Grand Mosque, making it easy to get to your prayers on time. The hotel has a more traditional feel, with Arabic architecture and furnishings. However, it still offers all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay, such as an on-site restaurant and laundry service.

Attractions: What to See and Do in Mecca

There are plenty of things to see and do in Mecca, whether you’re interested in religious sightseeing or exploring the city’s culture and history. Here are some of the highlights:

• Visit the Grand Mosque: The Grand Mosque is the holiest site in Islam and a mandatory pilgrimage site for all able-bodied Muslims. It is located in the center of Mecca and is home to the Kaaba, the most sacred object in Islam.

• Explore the Old City: The Old City of Mecca is full of history and culture. wander through the narrow streets and alleyways and soak up the atmosphere. Be sure to visit the King Fahd Gate, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.

• Visit the Museum of Islamic Art: The Museum of Islamic Art is located in the Old City of Mecca and houses a collection of artifacts from the Islamic world. This is a great place to learn more about the history and culture of Islam.

• Go shopping: Mecca is a shopper’s paradise, with plenty of malls and markets to explore. For a truly unique shopping experience, head to the Gold Souk, where you can find everything from gold jewelry to traditional Arabic sweets.

• Take a day trip: Mecca is located close to many other interesting places in Saudi Arabia. Consider taking a day trip to Jeddah, the Red Sea, or Mada’in Saleh.

Food Guide: What To Eat While in Mecca

I think we can all agree that we would not be able to enjoy our trip to Mecca or any other city without the right food. What to eat in Mecca? There are many great options for food lovers, whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a sit-down meal.

If you’re looking for something quick and easy, consider grabbing a shawarma from one of the many street vendors in the city. Shawarma is a type of kebab that is very popular in the Middle East . It’s made with chicken, lamb, or beef that is cooked on a spit and then shredded and served in a pita bread with salad and sauce.

For a sit-down meal, there are plenty of great restaurants to choose from. If you’re looking for traditional Arabic cuisine, try Al-Baik. This restaurant is known for its delicious chicken dishes, and it has several locations throughout the city.

Tips for Staying Safe and Avoiding Cultural Misunderstandings

As with any travel destination , there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Here are some tips for staying safe while in Mecca:

• Dress modestly: Remember that you are visiting a holy city, so it is important to dress respectfully. Women should cover their hair and wear loose-fitting clothing that covers their arms and legs. Men should also dress modestly, with long pants and shirts that cover the chest and shoulders.

• Don’t take photos of people without permission: Many people consider it disrespectful to take photos of people without their permission, so be sure to ask before taking any photos.

• Don’t touch or point at the Kaaba: The Kaaba is the most sacred site in Islam, and it is considered disrespectful to touch or point at it. If you want to take a photo of the Kaaba, be sure to do so from a distance.

• Don’t drink alcohol: Alcohol is not allowed in Saudi Arabia, so be sure to abstain while in Mecca.

• Don’t use drugs: Drug use is illegal in Saudi Arabia and can lead to stiff penalties, including jail time.

• Don’t lose your temper: It’s important to remain calm and respectful while you’re enjoying your trip to Mecca, even if you don’t agree with everything you see or hear while in Mecca. Losing your temper could lead to a misunderstanding or even a dangerous situation.

Can Non-Muslims Visit Mecca?

Non-Muslims are not allowed to enter Mecca. The only exceptions are diplomats and other officials who need to enter for business reasons. Even they are required to respect the religious customs of the city. Muslims who are not on a pilgrimage are also not allowed into Mecca. The holy city is reserved for those who are performing the pilgrimage rites.

Anyone caught trying to enter Mecca without permission can be arrested and deported. There have been some recent changes, however. In 2019, Saudi Arabia began issuing visas to non-Muslim tourists from 49 countries. Visitors are still not allowed into the holiest sites, but they can now see some of the other sights in and around Mecca.

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What to Know Before Visiting Mecca

The most important city in Muslim culture, Mecca is a unique place in the world. Here’s what you need to know if you’re going for the Hajj.

The central spot in the world for all Muslims, Mecca is a city that’s always closed for non-believers. In fact, traveling there as a Christian is punishable by law, and transgressors are promptly fined and deported. 

However, there are certain details even Muslim visitors should know before coming to the holiest site of Islam.

1. When to Come

For Muslims worldwide, visiting Mecca is obligatory if they are physically and financially able to make the journey. However, not all months of the year are equal when it comes to the Hajj. 

The pilgrimage is most valid if performed during the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijjah, which can be translated as the month of pilgrimage. 

Since the Islamic calendar is lunar, the year is about 12 days shorter than the regular solar year. This means that the months shift around and need to be calculated for each year. For example, the month of pilgrimage in 2021 starts on July 11, but it begins on June 30 the following year.

Luckily, visiting Mecca outside the designated period isn’t forbidden. But it doesn’t score as high and is only considered a minor pilgrimage.

2. How to Get There

There are special visas issued by Saudi Arabia for those who want to make the pilgrimage. The paperwork involved is quite daunting, which is why many Muslims resort to hiring travel agencies to take care of all the necessities. 

As expected for Saudi Arabia, women can’t travel alone but must be escorted by a man. The exceptions to this are women over 45 who are traveling as part of a group. But they must have consent signed by a man even then.

Once you get the paperwork in order, you can fly to Jeddah where there’s a dedicated airport terminal for those coming for the Hajj. From the city, you can take a bus, train, or travel by car to Mecca. 

If you’re driving there, non-Muslims can get to the Christian bypass that’s located several miles outside Mecca and they’ll get stopped at the checkpoint. Meanwhile, Muslims can pass the police checkpoint where they’ll likely be allowed to enter the city.

3. The Essential Sites 

Moving around Mecca is rather straightforward, as there are buses, taxis, and a metro. The crucial sites to visit in the city mainly revolve around the Hajj, with the priorities being the Kaaba and the Sacred Mosque that surrounds it.

Besides the two main sites, the Hajj often involves going to the plain of Muzdalifah where you can gather the stones to throw at the Devil. Once that’s done, you can then proceed to Mina, or the “tent city,” to spend the night and participate in the symbolic ritual of stoning the Devil.

Arafat hill is where Muhammad had his last sermon, while Jabal Al Thur is the cave where he hid from the Meccans trying to kill him. And visiting the mosque of Masjid e Taneem is an essential step in the pilgrimage.

Although not directly tied to the Hajj, the Mountain of Light or Jabal Al Noor is an essential site in Islam since, according to legend, that’s the place where Archangel Gabriel first revealed the Quran to Muhammad.

Another site that doesn’t directly relate to the pilgrimage is Abraj Al Bait or the Mecca Royal Hotel Clock Tower. This towering hotel complex looms over the Sacred Mosque and offers various amenities to pilgrims, including an Islamic Museum, a Lunar Observation Center, and more. 

4. What to Do

Many activities are available in Mecca and mostly revolve around religious matters. Visitors will have the chance to read the Quran, pray at the Sacred Mosque, stone the Devil at Mina, and visit the sacred sites, among others.

Besides these, you can visit some of the schools in Mecca including the Umm Al-Qura University, which is the only one of its kind in the city. There are also mountains around the city that are ideal for hiking. 

5. Shopping and Dining

Shopping in Mecca is widespread and you can check out local shops and malls that house various international brands. You can find an abundance of souvenirs to bring back home, as well as different religious items like prayer mats and Islamic hats.

Among the most precious trading commodities that you definitely shouldn’t miss are the Arabian perfume oils. These perfumes are made of natural ingredients and are less likely to irritate the skin. And their beautiful fragrance will last long even with the smallest quantity applied. 

When it comes to eateries, Mecca has a broad offer of restaurants that serve Middle Eastern, Indian, Southeast Asian, and international dishes. And if you’re in the mood for some classical American fast food, you can find everything from KFC and Pizza Hut to Dunkin Donuts. 

The food produced in the city is compliant with Islamic Law, which means there is no forbidden food like pork or ham.

Similarly, alcoholic beverages are forbidden both in Mecca and the whole country. But you can enjoy different juices, tea, and free Zamzam holy water.

6. Where to Stay

The range of hotels in Mecca is excellent. Pilgrims who can afford it can stay at the Hilton or the Inter-Continental, while others might choose accommodation in a lesser-known place. As expected, the prices of accommodations decrease as you move away from the Sacred Mosque.

Since Mecca can get quite crowded throughout the year, your best bet would be to book as early as possible to ensure a nice place to stay in some of the finer hotels in Mecca.

7. Safety Concerns

It’s not unusual for dozens of people to die under the stampedes of pilgrims that can be expected. Lately, some precautions have been taken to prevent the unnecessary loss of life. But the risk is still present. 

It would also be best to remain cautious of the pickpockets that lurk among the crowd. The best advice here is to leave your valuable possessions in a safe place before going out. 

Navigating Through the Holy City of Islam

As is the case with Middle Eastern locations, especially those as overcrowded as Mecca, there are many considerations and preparations to take before visiting. But for true believers, the experience is precious and will present a long-lasting memory.

12 Fascinating Mecca Attractions You Must Visit

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There’s a surprisingly large number of things to see in Mecca, and it’s not limited to religious sites either. Discover some of the city’s highlights you shouldn’t miss.

The holy city of Mecca is best-known as the site of pilgrimage for Muslims all over the world. And if you’re interested in other things to see in Mecca, there are plenty of attractions worth considering. 

In this article, we’ll tell you the 12 most interesting sights you should consider adding to your itinerary. 

1. The Kaaba and the Sacred Mosque

The Kaaba is an ancient Muslim sanctuary and the great mosque was built around it. Around four million people can fit into the world’s largest mosque. With its intricate structure and delicate decorations, it’s a fascinating sight to see. 

Visits to the holy site are quite challenging during the day, as the place is constantly overcrowded. That’s why coming there in the evening will prove much more pleasant.

2. Mount Arafat

Located east of the city, the Arafat hill is purportedly the spot where Muhammad delivered his final sermon. And according to Muslim belief, this location is where the faithful will resurrect.

With steep sections and piles of rock, the hill might be somewhat demanding to climb. But it’s entirely manageable if you stay hydrated and rest regularly as you go on that trek. 

3. Al Aziziyah District

This renowned shopping district is well-known for the markets, with the central market being the most popular spot. Conveniently close to the Sacred Mosque, Al Aziziyah is the best spot for those looking for clothes, accessories, shoes, cosmetics, and more. 

Both Al Aziziyah central market and the neighboring Al Majaz market house various local and international brands that deal in textiles and jewelry. 

4. Jabal Thawr

Jabal Thawr is a mountain over 4,500 feet high, and its significance lies in the cave where Muhammad hid while escaping the Meccans who wanted to kill him. There’s a wide path leading to the top and the mountain is perfect for viewing the surrounding landscape.

5. Muhammad’s Birthplace

The place where Muhammad was born now houses a library and museum. It’s an excellent spot for learning about the history of the religion. For devoted Muslims, being at the same spot where the prophet was born might be the most sentimental experience during their visit to Mecca.

Muhammad had the first revelations in this cave near the city of Mecca. The journey to the cave involves taking a three-hour hike up the mountain in the desert weather, making it quite challenging for most visitors. 

It’s recommended to bring plenty of water and some snacks to remain energized during the trip. Hikers should keep a reasonable pace so they don’t become exhausted before reaching the destination. Once on top, you’ll appreciate the excellent view of the city below.

7. Al Diyafa Mall

Contrasting the historical sites nearby, the Al Diyafa Mall is a modern-looking structure that houses lavish fashion stores and represents the trendy side of Mecca. Its name translates to ‘hospitality’ and the mall is located in the Al Zahir neighborhood 

With plenty of fashion stores, restaurants, and an area for children, Al Diyafa Mall is an ideal place where you can spend several hours browsing and shopping.

8. Abraj Al Bait

The giant building towering above the Kaaba, Abraj Al Bait is a complex owned by the government and represents one of the most famous attractions in Mecca. Located in it are a shopping mall, a high-end hotel, and a praying space. 

The outstanding feature of the massive building is the clock tower that can be seen shining like a beacon from miles away. There’s also an observatory at the top that offers a great view of the surrounding area, making the visit to the building a must.

9. Masjid E Taneem

Very close to Mecca, Masjid E Taneem is a mosque and one of the crucial points in pilgrimages. It’s outfitted with bath and changing facilities. Faithful Muslims use it as Miqat or a station where they can change into appropriate garments for the pilgrimage. 

Mina is a neighborhood designed for pilgrims to have a sleep-over during the Hajj. There are tens of thousands of tents that have air conditioning and Teflon coating for everyone to remain comfortable in the high desert heat. 

11. Makkah Mall

Away from the desert climate, Makkah Mall is a high-end shopping center with a vibrant atmosphere and plenty of amenities for all kinds of customers. This mall is the essential shopping hub for visitors and it houses many different brands, from local to international. 

There are various shops, boutiques, supermarkets, and restaurants, with over 140 brands represented there. You’ll also find various entertainment areas, making the mall very convenient for families with kids.

12. Al Wahba Crater

This volcanic crater can be found to the northeast of Mecca, an otherworldly area in the middle of the desert. Measuring almost a mile in diameter and featuring cliffs that reach the height of around 850 feet, the Al Wahba crater is truly massive. 

Among the most interesting things to see in Mecca is this crater when it becomes filled with water during the wet season. And once evaporation happens, a layer of salt is left covering the bottom. 

Created during the period when the area had plenty of volcanic activity, Al Wahba is surrounded by plains that contain large amounts of volcanic ash. You’ll find some refuge from the sun under the shade of palm trees when hiking through and around the crater. These trees cover the cliffs to the north and you can even choose to camp on the site.

Experience Mecca

From the unavoidable religious sites to excellent shopping venues and wonders of nature, there’s much to see in and near Mecca. It doesn’t matter what one’s level of devotion as a Muslim is. Every visitor will find something to enjoy in the holy city.

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• 2024 मक्का में अल-हरम मस्जिद से ऑनलाइन लाइव प्रसारण देखें!
• Local Hajj 2024
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• Reading the Holy Quran online
• Prayer times in Makkah
• Umrah Guide
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• Communication with the site administration

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Hajj, pilgrimage to Umrah Hajj packages (Makkah) 2024: prices, dates

• Hajj, pilgrimage to Umrah Hajj…

Dates for Hajj in 2024

The date of the pilgrimage is changed annually due to the use of the Muslim calendar called “Hijra”.

In 2024, the Great Hajj will be held from June 14th to June 19th. (14.06.24 – 19.06.24)

Departures of Muslim pilgrims for the Hajj at 2024 prices are carried out from you country. You can order a tour / trip to the Hajj through specialized sources.

Local Hajj packages 2024

There are four categories of local Hajj packages available for the locals and residents this year, with the cost ranging from SAR 3,984 (1600$) to SAR 11,841 (3155$). The payment can be made in full or in instalments. The ministry of Hajj allows domestic pilgrims to pay Hajj costs in instalments this year. The 20% of the Hajj costs should be paid within 72 hours of making the registration as the first instalment. The second instalment of 40% of the Hajj costs is due 7 Rajab 1444 AH, whereas the last instalment is due 10 Shawwal 1444 AH.

Hajj 2024 - the cost of the packages from India

Registering for Hajj through the government’s HCI will have to pay INR 3,99,500 (4900$) cheapest hajj packages – 6,55,866 (8000$) luxury hajj packages, while private operators are charging up to INR 6 lakh. Indian Hajj seekers may potentially endure a staggering 50 per cent increase. This year’s Hajj pilgrimage higher compared to the last Hajj season in 2024.

Hajj 2024 - the cost of the packages from Pakistan

The price for the government’s Hajj scheme was around PKR 860,000 (3200$) for the northern regions and PKR 850,000 (3150$) for the southern region. Meanwhile, if you wish to book your Hajj packages with private travel agents, the price could be higher than the government scheme. The economy package starts from PKR 700,000 (2600$), and you can get the 5-star package from PKR 900,000 (3350$).

Hajj 2024 - the cost of the packages from UAE

This year, Hajj packages from UAE may cost around AED 27,500 (7400$) inclusive of the Hajj visa, airfares, Hajj coordinator, meals, tents in Mina and Arafat, and transportation in KSA.

Some travel agents may require a minimum payment of AED 10,000 (2700$) before you can book your Hajj packages.

Hajj 2024 - the cost of the packages from USA

It’s been reported that the prices for Hajj packages from USA range from 12000$ (cheapest hajj packages) to 20500$+ (luxury hajj packages) per person. The hajj packages would typically include airfare, accommodation, food, and transport. However, we recommend consulting your preferred travel agent concerning the most recent prices and what the packages entail.

Hajj 2024 - the cost of the packages from Qatar

It’s been reported that the prices for Hajj packages from Qatar range from QAR 32,000 (8800$) to 70,000 (19500$) per person. The hajj packages would typically include airfare, accommodation, food, and transport. However, we recommend consulting your preferred travel agent concerning the most recent prices and what the packages entail.

Hajj 2024 - the cost of the packages from Bangladesh

The Hajj Agencies Association of Bangladesh (HAAB) unveiled a package for the upcoming year’s Hajj under private management, setting the minimum cost at BDT 5,89,800, which is BDT 82,818 less than the current year’s minimum cost. Pilgrims are required to cover the expense of sacrificial animals, priced at 800 Riyal.

Hajj 2024 - the cost of the tour from Kazakhstan and nearby countries

• 2 meals a day;
• The mosque is about 1 km away;
• 4 stars hotel (4 bed rooms);
• Guide services and assistance with paperwork included!
• Buffet, 2-3 meals a day;
• Accommodation at 200-250m. from the temple;
• Hotel 5 stars (2x-3x bed rooms);

Minimum tour cost: from 2500 $

** the website shows average prices in 2024

The cost of Hajj in 2024 from Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Armenia, Kyrgyzstan and neighboring countries will start from $ 2,500 – $ 3,000 with accommodation, meals and 12-14 days’ accommodation near the temple. For more information, contact your local tour operator. There are also private carriers who can make the tour 25-30% cheaper than the official tour operator.

Hotel Images

Note to the pilgrim to Mecca (Makkah)

1st to 8th Dhul Hiji

• On the way to Mecca: put on ihram.
• Check into a hotel in Mecca.
• Visit the al-Haram mosque.
• Enter the mosque with your right foot and read the dua.
• Go around the Kaaba 7 times, pray for the maqam.
• Run 7 times between Safa and Marva, drink Zamzam.
• Go to the salon and get your hair cut.
• Read the obligatory prayers with the jamaat.
• Return to the hotel, remove ihram and change clothes.

8 is the number of Dhul Hiji

• After sunrise: ihram, then to Mina valley.
• During the day: prayers in the jamaat in Mina.

9-dhul-hiji number

• After the morning prayer: to Mount Arafat
• In the afternoon: prayers in the Jamaat at the Namir Mosque
• Read prayers, dhikrs and ask for forgiveness.
• After the evening prayer: go to Muzdalifah.

10 is the number of dhul-hiji

• After the morning prayer: head to Mina.
• Go throw 7 pebbles at Jamarat al-Aqaba.
• Sacrifice (if you have not entrusted it to others).
• Get a haircut, remove ihram and change clothes in tents
• Go to al-Haram, do tawaf and sai

11,12,13 – Dhul-Hijji numbers

• After lunch prayer: visit 3 jamarats.
• Perform Tawaf al-Wada’ before leaving

Ihram is the first action of the rituals of Hajj and Umrah, it means the intention of a person to start the rituals. The time of entering ihram for Umrah is any time during the year. There are certain months for the Hajj: Shawwal, Dhul-Qa’da and the first decade of Dhul-Hijji.

Both Hajj and Umrah begin from the moment you enter ihram in miqat.

Miqats are sites where pilgrims wear ihram. The Prophet (S.A.U.) determined 5 miqats, on which those who perform Hajj or Umra are obliged to enter the state of ihram: -Khuleifu, for those coming from Syria – al-Juhfu, for those arriving from Najd – Karn al-Manazil, and for residents of Yemen – Yalamlam. These places are intended for them, as well as for everyone who wishes to make the Hajj or the small pilgrimage, but arrives at the above places from outside the mentioned areas. And as for those who live near Mecca, their pilgrimage will begin where they start their journey, and therefore the people of Mecca must enter ihram in Mecca itself. (Al-Bukhari and Muslim).

The following things are allowed during ihram:

• Put on a watch;
• Use hearing aids or headphones;
• Wear rings;
• Wear sandals;
• Wear glasses;
• To gird with a belt;
• Take cover under the shade of an umbrella;
• Take cover under the roof of the car;
• Wear luggage on your head;
• Wear a bed on your head;
• Bandage the wound, change the clothes of ihram and wash them;
• Wash your hair and take a shower.

If a person in ihram, out of forgetfulness or ignorance, covers his head, then in this case there is nothing reprehensible, but he is obliged to remove the headdress as soon as he remembers this or his mistake is explained to him.

Prayer standing in the Arafat valley is one of the obligatory pillars of the Hajj, without which the latter will not be valid. As the Messenger of Allah (S.A.U.) said: “Hajj is Arafat.” (Abu Dawud and at-Tirmidhi)

The day of Arafat is the best of the days on which the sun rose. On this Great Day, all pilgrims gather at Arafat and stand here from sunrise to sunset. In the Sahih Muslim collection, there is a hadith from Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her!), That the prophet (saw) said:

“There is no day like the day of Arafat, in which Allah frees His slave so much from the fire. And the Almighty, descending to the nearest heaven, boasts before His angels, saying: “What do these (My servants) want?”.

It is advisable for the pilgrim, if possible, to stop at the Namir Mosque before the onset of Zuhr prayer, as this is Sunnah. During the zuhr prayer, one adhan and two iqamat are read (ikamah is pronounced immediately before the beginning of each obligatory prayer). Then the imam reads a khutba (sermon) with instructions for the people and, together with the rest of the Muslims, prays zuhr and asr, combining them and reducing each of the prayers to two rak’ats, as the prophet did (s.au.). Additional prayers are performed at will. Since part of the mosque is located outside the boundaries of Mount Arafat, the pilgrim after prayer should make sure that he is really within it.

It is reported that ‘Urwa ibn Mudarris, may Allah Almighty be pleased with him, said that the Messenger of Allah (saw) said:

“Whoever was present at our prayer in Muzdalifah and stood with us until we set off, and even earlier stood in the Arafat valley day or night, he performed the Hajj and performed its rites.” (Ahmad, Abu Dawood, at-Tirmidhi, an-Nasai and Ibn Maja)

THIS IS IMPORTANT TO KNOW:

• On the day of Arafah, the pilgrim must be on the territory of Mount Arafat before sunset.
• The Namir Mosque is located on the territory of Mount Arafat, but part of it, namely the eastern side, is outside the borders of Arafat. Therefore, the pilgrim needs to remember this and pay attention to the signs inside the mosque. Note: The day of Arafah is the most important day of the Hajj.
• Therefore, pilgrims need to beware of any mistakes that may deprive them of the reward and recompense of the Hajj.
• You should not stop outside Arafat, stay there before sunset and go to the Muzdalifah valley ahead of time. Whoever did this did not perform the Hajj;
• You mustn’t leave Arafat before sunset. This is forbidden, as it contradicts the actions of the prophet (s.a.u.); It is not allowed to create crush and push with the use of force in order to climb Mount Arafat (Jabal ar-Rahmah) and reach the top, wipe stones in order to receive blessings and perform prayers on the top of the mountain.
• It is a big mistake to point your face towards Mount Arafat during du’a.

Tawaf, like prayer, can be performed as many times as you like, but only 7 circles each. During the Hajj, people need to perform at least three types of tawaf:

1. Tawaf al-Kudum. The first circuit around the Kaaba, made by pilgrims after arriving in Mecca.

2. Tawaf al-Ifada. The obligatory tawaf of the Hajj, performed after Jamarat al-Aqab (on the 10th day of Dhul-Hijja).

3. Tawaf al-Wada’. Farewell tawaf is the last obligatory action of the Hajj.

Tawaf al-kudum (circumvention around the Kaaba).

After completing the tawaf:

1. It is necessary to close the right shoulder (for men).

2. Perform a prayer in two rak’ats behind the maqam of Ibrahim, which is Sunnah. If it is difficult to read the prayer behind the maqam, then you can perform it in any other place in the mosque. In the first rak’at after the al-Fatiha surah, it is advisable to read the al-Kafirun surah. In the second rak’at after the al-Fatiha surah, it is advisable to read the al-Ikhlas surah. It is allowed if these two suras are replaced by others.

Surah Al-Kafirun Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim Kul ya ayukhal-kafirun. La a’du ma ta’budun. Wa la antum ‘abiduna ma a’bud. Wa la ana ‘abidum ma ‘abattum. Va la antum ‘abiduna ma a’bud. Lakum dinukum va lidin.

Surah al-Ikhlas Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim Kul huwallahu ahad. Allahus-Samad. Lam yalid wa lam yulyad, wa lam yakul-lahu kufuvan ahad.

Mistakes in Tawaf

1. Some pilgrims go around the Kaaba from the inside of the Hijr (a semicircular wall near the Kaaba). This is a mistake, as Hijr is part of the Kaaba, and it is necessary to do tawaf outside of it, and not from the inside.

2. Touching and wiping all the corners of the Kaaba, its walls, bedspreads, doors and Makam Ibrahim, peace be upon him. All these actions are forbidden, as they belong to the category of innovations that do not have a basis in Sharia, which the Prophet (saw) did not do.

3. Participation of women in the stampede, where they come into contact with strangers men. This happens mainly during tawaf, at the Black Stone or at Maqam Ibrahim. Therefore, you need to move away from large crowds of people.

1. Sa’y is a seven-fold walk between the two hills of Safa and Marwa, located inside the al-Haram mosque.

2. Distance between two hills = 450 m.

3. Men, having reached the green lights, start running to the next green lights, after which they continue to walk at a normal pace.

4. During the Hajj tamattu, sa’y is performed 2 times. Once for Umrah (on the first day of arrival, after Tawaf Kudum), another for the Hajj itself (on the 10th day of Zul-Hijja after Tawaf Ifada).

5. During Hajj qiran, sa’y is performed only once for Umrah and Hajj together (on the first day of arrival, after tawaf kudum or on the 10th day of dhul-hijja after tawaf ifrad)

6. During Hajj Ifrad, Sa’y is also performed only once for Umrah and Hajj together (on the first day of arrival or on the 10th day of Zul Hijjah).

After the end of the tawaf, the pilgrim goes to Safa to perform seven walks between the hills. Approaching Safa, he says: “I start from where Allah began” and quotes the verse:

“Innas-sofa wal maruata min sha’irillah”.

Then he rises to Safa, stands on it and heads towards the Kaaba, praises Allah three times: “Alhamdu lillah” and exalts Him: “Allahu Akbar”, and raising his hands, makes du’a (calls out):

“La ilaha illallahu wahdahu la sharalyah. Lyakhul mulku wa lyakhul hamdu wa hua hua ala kuli shay in kadir. La ilaha illallahu wahdahu anjaza wadahu wa nasora abdahu wahazamal ahzaba wahdahu.”

Translation: “There is no deity but Allah, who is alone and has no partner. To Him belongs dominion and all praise, and He is powerful over all things. There is no deity but Allah alone, who fulfilled his promise, gave victory to his slave and destroyed the tribes.

(these words are repeated three times)

Between these words, the pilgrim asks the Almighty for whatever he wants, and if the prayer is shorter than the above form, this is allowed. Hands are raised only when making a du’a, with the words jet “Allahu Akbar” they should not be raised. A common mistake pilgrims make is pointing with both hands towards the Kaaba. Then the pilgrim descends from Safa and moves in the direction of Marwa with the usual step, at this moment the pilgrim makes du’a for himself, his family and other Muslims.

Men, having reached the green lights, run to the next green lights, after which they continue to walk at a normal pace.

Having reached Marwa, the pilgrim turns to the Kaaba and pronounces the same words as on Safa, with the exception of the verse. Makes dua whatever he wishes and goes to Safa. Whenever the men approach the green lights, they need to quicken their pace to the next lights. On Safa, the same actions are repeated. The passage of the distance from Safa to Marwa is counted as one round of sa’i. In this form, seven rounds of sa’y should be performed.

A pilgrim who started the sa’i on foot is allowed to finish it on a wheelchair if he feels physical discomfort or pain that does not allow him to continue moving on his own.

After sa’y, the one who performs umrah shaves or shortens the hair on his head (shaving the hair is preferable). Hair should be trimmed evenly over the entire head. A woman shortens her hair to the length of one phalanx.

At this, the rites of death are completed and for the pilgrim, actions that are forbidden during ihram become permitted.

Note: Women in the period of monthly or postpartum discharge are allowed to perform sa’y, since this area does not belong to the Forbidden Mosque. However, neither they nor other women are allowed to run during the sa’y.

The Hajj Guide Infogtaphic

Answers to popular questions

Only wakil al-hajj can perform Hajj for free. This is the name of a person who has already gone on a large pilgrimage on his own, but is ready to make another such journey to the holy lands of the city of Mecca for another person.

The most expensive item of expenditure is air travel, hotel accommodation, transfer, services of the host party, tents in Mina, where pilgrims spend several days.

Maintaining the pilgrimage is a costly affair.  The administration has invested heavily in upgrading and maintaining Hajj-related infrastructure and services . This includes high-speed trains, new roads, advanced crowd management systems, and expanded capacity at the Grand Mosque, Masjid al-Haram.

The ratio for allocation of the available Hajj quota to Government and Private Hajj Scheme shall be  50:50 i.e 89,605 each . However, in case HGOs failed to utilize 50%o quota in line with Saudi Taleema! the unspent quota shall be shifted to Govemment Hajj Scheme.

The Hajj pilgrimage is performed over five to six days .

Hajj is performed over specific days during a designated Islamic month. However, Umrah can be performed at any time.

It is forbidden to wear a burqa and a niqab during Hajj. And in general, the requirements for clothing are less strict for women than for men: women can wear any casual clothing permitted by Sharia during Hajj, while men are prohibited from wearing any sewn items that emphasize the shape of the body, as well as headgear.

If you have not yet performed the obligatory Hajj, then there is no prohibition on going to Umrah. Moreover, if after performing Umrah, you do not have the financial opportunity to perform Hajj in the same year, then it is not incumbent on you.

The Total Cost of Hajj can range anywhere from $12000 to $25000+ depending on the package you choose.

From INR 3,99,500 (4900$) cheapest hajj packages to 6,55,866+ (8000$+) luxury hajj packages.

If you read the comments and know the answers to the questions asked here, please help people and answer their questions (if you have verified information and know the answer for sure). Thanks to everyone who helps!

Why don’t they do it for free? Do you people have nothing better to do?

Guys please help me how can I go to Mecca for the sake of Allah how can I get and where will I get a visa to Mecca

Short, clear and concise! Thank you

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5 Days Makkah Itinerary: Best Places to Visit in Makkah

by Trip.com

January 30, 2023

Day 1 | Morning

The kiswa factory of the holy ka'aba.

Location: CQM4+VPR, Al Hamra Umm Al Jud, Mecca 24321

It may take some effort to get access to the adjacent Kiswah Museum, but it's all worth it. The 670 kilograms of black silk Kiswah covered in Kerr White is handmade and handwritten writing is compiled on silk with gold and silver threads.

Day 1 | Afternoon

Exhibition Of The Two Holy Mosques Architecture nearby is the top choice before you leave The Kiswa Factory of the Holy Ka'aba and hit the road.

Exhibition Of The Two Holy Mosques Architecture

Location: Old Makkah Jeddah Rd, Al Hamra Umm Al Jud, Mecca 24321

Mecca has many striking museums that showcase the history of the city and the intersecting places of travellers around the world for centuries. The two exhibitions show visitors to see preserved and restored objects such as exquisite marble arches and broken wooden doors, giving visitors an insight into the construction of the Mecca and Medina Prophet Temple and the stages after it was built.

Day 1 | Evening

After visiting the glorious Exhibition Of The Two Holy Mosques Architecture, OYO 167 Dar Al Raies Hotel nearby is the best place to stay.

OYO 167 Dar Al Raies Hotel

Just 4 km away from the Holy Haram, Dar Al Raies Hotel offers simply furnished accomodation. Luggage storage and ironing services can be arranged by the 24-hour front desk. The air-conditioned rooms feature a TV, a fridge and a wardrobe. Each suite offers a seating area with sofa. A shower is fitted in the bathroom. Wi-Fi is available upon request. Nearby restaurants and coffee shops are within a walking distance from Dar Al Raies Hotel. There is a coffee shop at the hotel that serves light snacks and hot drinks. Al Setin Street Market is 100 metres away from Dar Al Raies Hotel, while King Abdul Aziz International Airport is a 60-minute drive away.

Swimming pool

Check Availability

Day 2 | Morning

Masjid al haram.

Opening Hours: Open 24 hours

Recommended Length of Stay: 1-2 Hours

Location: Al Haram, Mecca 24231

At the heart of Mecca is the spacious Great Mosque, which can accommodate 4 million worshippers. The center of the Great Mosque is the Kaaba, a square building wrapped in black silk with golden calligraphy in the center. A holy mosque is a sacred mosque in Islam where pilgrims perform a small pilgrimage, wearing appropriate clothing and taking prescribed steps such as a tawaf (seven laps around the Kaaba), or Walk seven times between Mount Safa and Mount Marwa.

Reviews from Real Guests:

Trip.com User: beautifull place in the whole world you can feel that you are a real human

Hussien: The most BEAUTIFUL place in the world #Mekkah #Mecca #KSA

Day 2 | Afternoon

Abraj Al-Bait Towers nearby is the top choice before you leave Masjid Al Haram and hit the road.

Abraj Al-Bait Towers

Recommended Length of Stay: 1.0-2.0 Hours

Location: CR9G+P5C، الملاوي، Al Haram, Makkah 24231, Saudi Arabia

The abrajal-bait tower, also known as the Makkah Royal Clock Tower Hotel, is a complex of buildings in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. This building complex holds a number of world records. It is the world's tallest clock tower, the world's largest clock face and the world's largest building. The peculiar and complex tower became the third tallest building in the world in 2015, after the Burj Khalifa in Dubai and the Shanghai Tower in China.

Trip.com User: very beautiful and peaceful place place where i got relax too much

Day 2 | Evening

After visiting the glorious Abraj Al-Bait Towers, Conrad Makkah nearby is the best place to stay.

Conrad Makkah

Located in Ajyad, Conrad Makkah Hotel is a perfect starting point from which to explore Mecca. The hotel offers a wide range of amenities and perks to ensure you have a great time. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms, wheelchair accessible, 24-hour front desk, Wi-Fi in public areas, valet parking are just some of the facilities on offer. Each guestroom is elegantly furnished and equipped with handy amenities. Recuperate from a full day of sightseeing in the comfort of your room or take advantage of the hotel's recreational facilities, including fitness center, outdoor pool. Conrad Makkah Hotel is an excellent choice from which to explore Mecca or to simply relax and rejuvenate.

Day 3 | Morning

Masjid al-haram.

Location: Al Haram, Mecca 24231, Saudi Arabia

Sabscool: visiting the holy mosque in mecca for doing Umra and Hajj is one of the most peaceful moments that a person can feel in his life

Day 3 | Afternoon

Having the chance to enjoy the charming Masjid al-Haram, Kaaba next to it is another great place that you will never want to miss!

Kaaba, also known as Kaaba or Kaaba Kaaba, is a cubic building. According to legend, it was built by Adam (Adam) and jointly built by Ibrahim and Ismaili. According to Islamic tradition, Kaaba is an earthly version of the "place where angels worship Allah", and Kaaba's location is directly under the building of heaven.

Day 3 | Evening

If you want to explore other popular attractions later, Hilton Suites Makkah is a suitable place for you to stay and refresh.

Hilton Suites Makkah

Experience contemporary luxury and a fantastic location just moments from the Kaaba and Holy Haram, when you stay at the Hilton Suites Makkah. Set in the center of Makkah, in the heart of Saudi Arabia, this luxurious hotel offers easy access to the Haram via direct elevators and is only 100km from Jeddah International Airport. There are also many holy sites and popular Makkah attractions nearby, including Zamzam Well, Makkah Museum, Jabal al-Nour. Unwind in a beautifully decorated, air-conditioned guest room at this Makkah hotel with a range of amenities, including a spacious work area, WiFi, an HDTV, a mini-refrigerator and an in-room safe. Upgrade to a suite for incredible views over the Holy Haram, additional amenities and more space - an ideal choice for families or groups. With two flexible meeting spaces, 24-hour onsite parking, a professional team of event staff and a 24-hour business center offering a range of useful services, this contemporary Makkah hotel is perfect for business meetings and social events. Enjoy breathtaking views and delicious buffet choices in Alqandeel Restaurant or dine on oriental cuisine in the Asia Restaurant, both located on the hotel’s mezzanine level. Relax over a freshly brewed coffee and watch the world go by in the street-level, Al-Khalil cafe or savor a specialty beverage and a light snack in Alkawkab Cafe. Maintain your fitness regime with the very latest exercise equipment in the modern, 24-hour fitness center.

Day 4 | Morning

Masjid taneem.

Location: FR92+2GR, At Taniem, Makkah al-Mukarramah 24223

Tanim Mosque is located in Mecca, Arabia, with convenient transportation and fresh air. It is a beautiful and quiet mosque.

Trip.com User: wish see it again

Day 4 | Afternoon

Having the chance to enjoy the charming Masjid Taneem, Al Rajhi Grand Mosque next to it is another great place that you will never want to miss!

Al Rajhi Grand Mosque

Location: Hasan Al Musaili, Riyadh 01111 Saudi Arabia

This is Riyadh's larger mosque, used as a place of worship, with a male auditorium that can hold 18,000 people and a female auditorium that can hold 2,500 people. It has two libraries and an education center, Friday prayers translated into seven languages and will be shown on digital screens to hearing impaired people, and the building will be lit up with orange light during nighttime lighting.

Day 4 | Evening

Don’t forget to book Millennium Makkah Al Naseem in advance, because all the tourists head to Al Rajhi Grand Mosque love staying at it.

Millennium Makkah Al Naseem

Whether business or leisure travelers, Nasim Holy City Hotel can make your trip to Mecca more beautiful and unforgettable.Beautiful environment, coupled with meticulous and thoughtful service, the hotel leisure area will be able to meet your quality needs.

Day 5 | Morning

Makkah museum.

Opening Hours: Open on Thu-Sun,8:00am-12:30am,4:00pm-9:00pm

Ticket Price: Free

Location: Makkah Al Madinah Munawawrah Rd, Az Zahir, Mecca 24227

The Mecca Museum is located in the magnificent Zahir Palace, dating back to ancient rock paintings and rare copies of centuries of important literature.

Day 5 | Afternoon

After finishing the tour at Makkah Museum, you can head to Jabal Al Nour, the most worth visiting place around the corner.

Jabal Al Nour

Location: Jabal Al Nour, Jabal An Nur, Mecca 24238, Saudi Arabia

Jabal AlNour is a majestic mountain in the Mecca region and is a good hiking spot, with a panoramic view from the top of the mountain, which is very beautiful.

Trip.com User: pretty mountain

Day 5 | Evening

After visiting the glorious Jabal Al Nour, Le Meridien Makkah nearby is the best place to stay.

Le Meridien Makkah

Set in a prime location of Mecca, Le Meridien Makkah puts everything the city has to offer just outside your doorstep. The hotel has everything you need for a comfortable stay. Service-minded staff will welcome and guide you at the Le Meridien Makkah. Television LCD/plasma screen, air conditioning, wake-up service, desk, mini bar can be found in selected guestrooms. The hotel offers various recreational opportunities. Le Meridien Makkah is an excellent choice from which to explore Mecca or to simply relax and rejuvenate.

* All reviews in the blog are machine-translated.

Table of Content

• Day 1: The Kiswa Factory of the Holy Ka'aba, Exhibition Of The Two Holy Mosques Architecture
• Day 2: Masjid Al Haram, Abraj Al-Bait Towers
• Day 3: Masjid al-Haram, Kaaba
• Day 4: Masjid Taneem, Al Rajhi Grand Mosque
• Day 5: Makkah Museum, Jabal Al Nour

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THE 10 BEST Mecca Tours & Excursions

Mecca tours.

• Private Tours
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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Makkah's Holy & Historical Places: Ziyarat Private Tour

2. Umrah Guide

3. Makkah Historical Places Private Tour ( Makkah Ziyarats )

4. Makkah Hotel to Jeddah Airport Private Transport

5. Makkah to Jeddah City & Airport (Private)

6. Half Day Private Tour in Makkah

7. Makkah Hotel to Medina Hotel Private Umrah Taxi

8. Makkah Hotel to Medina Hotel Private Umrah Cab

9. Makkah Hotel to Makkah Haramain Train Station Transfer

10. Makkah City to Masjid Ayesha Taneem - Return Tour

11. 4 Hours Makkah Religious Places Tour

12. All Ground transfers Saudi Arabia, Jeddah to Makkah Makkah to Medina to Airport

13. makkah holy places / ziyarat: private.

14. Morning Desert Safari From Makkah

15. Makkah Holy Places / Ziyarat ( Private)

16. Combo Umrah Pack (JED Airport -MAKK-MED-JED Airport With MED & MAK Holy Places

17. Makkah Holy Places / Ziyarat ( Half Day)

18. Makkah to Medina Prince Airport(MED) - Departure Private Transfer

19. Private Transfer: Mecca to King Abdulaziz Airport JED in Luxury Van/SUV

20. Makkah City/ Hotel to Jeddah Airport (Private Transfer)

21. Makkah Hotel To Jeddah Airport Transfer

22. Makkah City to Jeddah Airport Private Departure Transfer

23. Makkah Holly & Historical Places with Mosque Ayesha Taneem Tour

24. Makkah City to Train Station Private Transfer

25. Makkah City to Madinah City Private Transfer

26. 10-Day Umrah Private Tour in Mecca

27. Makkah hotels to Medina Airport(MED) - Departure Private Transfer

28. Mecca hotels to Jeddah Airport (JED) - Departure Private Transfer

29. Makkah City Hotel to Madinah City Hotel Transfer

30. Umrah Promo Package

What travelers are saying.

• Umrah Guide
• Makkah's Holy & Historical Places: Ziyarat Private Tour
• Makkah Historical Places Private Tour ( Makkah Ziyarats )
• Makkah Holy Places / Ziyarat: Private
• Makkah Holy Places / Ziyarat ( Half Day)
• Hujjaj Umrah Taxi
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What are the requirements for traveling to Mecca? passport and rules

What are the requirements.

Muslim pilgrimage to the Mecca once a year. The most important of them all is the so-called Hajj, pilgrimage that takes place in a particular month. During the rest of the year, other pilgrimages take place, but these are considered minor and are not mandatory. 

There are some requirements to travel to the Mecca and make the pilgrimage. The first one is almost tacit: to be a Muslim. Non-Muslims ‘unfaithful’ or are banned from this city. The next requirement to travel to the Mecca is to be an adult, male or female and have the possibility, whether economic to make the pilgrimage.

If yoy want know about travel to mecca enter here

The following requirements to travel to the Mecca are quite , such as being healthy and being an adult, means mature, in order to understand the meaning of the pilgrimage to Mecca. In addition, the believer must be free and be able to make the pilgrimage without any problem at all. 

Another group of the requirements to travel to Mecca is of a financial nature: being able to pay for the round trip, as well as supporting your family during the time the believer is absent from the house. This is one of the most important requirements since the pilgrimage to Mecca is expensive. To carry out this Muslim rite matter, several believers dedicate an important part of their lives saving money to make it possible.

Some believers do not have the chance to raise enough money to perform the rite. That is why there are several foundations and organizations around the world that donate money to pay for travel and lodging for some rigorously selected believers, during the days when the pilgrimage lasts. In some cases, the foundations get money from the sponsors, while in other cases, they get it from the government. 

For the sponsors, offering the pilgrimage of another believer, it is like giving them a blessing, since they are giving them the opportunity to live a unique experience and that will be of great benefit to their spirituality. Among the requirements to travel to Mecca under this scheme, it is precisely not having the money to do so. In addition, you have to be over 40 and converted to Islam. This foundations treat believers to live the spiritual experience this rite gives, and the idea is to favor the less privileged. For example, they try to pay for the trip to the elderly, since it is considered that he or she will be less likely to make the pilgrimage in the remaining time of their life.

These are not the only requirements to travel to the Mecca. Apart from the economic barrier, there is another important barrier, which is the permission to enter the country. Saudi Arabia does not issue a tourist visa, nor is tourism allowed on its border, because of this, a limited amount of fees are given to each country, in proportion to the number of Muslims living in the country, so that they can Make the pilgrimage. In this way, Muslims who do not live in Mecca or Saudi Arabia can enter to make the pilgrimage.

There are other requirements to travel to Mecca of a religious nature. This is due to the fact that there are three ways to make the pilgrimage: one for those who live in the same city, another for those who live outside, as long as they do not live more than 88 kilometers from it, and another for those who live more than 88 kilometers of it. As the latter is the most important, important characteristics will be mentioned.

It has two parts, the first one has 5 defined rites, like consecration as a pilgrim, circling around the Kaaba, praying after turning around the Kaaba, running between two points and finally shaving the mustache and with the haircut. The second part has more requirements. 

During the first rite of the pilgrimage, the believer has to have every intention of finding God during the pilgrimage, wearing a special costume and saying the prayer. For the second rite, seven laps must have around the black stone, with departure and arrival in it. Immediately after that, the prayer must take pleasure in front of a monument. After the run between the two points between which it is believed that Agan ran to get water for Ishmael takes place. To end the rite, the fifth stop is to have a little haircut, shave your mustache or beard.

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Revisiting Muhammad Asad's Memoir – The Road To Mecca

The arabia i saw was not the arabia that muhammad asad had seen. but just beneath the veneer of modernity, i could pick up the culture that asad had described in his memoir nearly a century ago.

• Ahmad Faruqui
• Book Review , Features , Main Slider

In 1992, when Asad passed away, all I knew about him was that he had authored, " The Road to Mecca ."  His death triggered a desire in me to read this memoir.

His masterly portrayal of the Bedouin tribesmen who inhabited the sands of Arabia brought them to life just like T. E. Lawrence in " Seven Pillars of Wisdom ." But Asad's narration went deeper, since it was also a spiritual journey.    

I felt a tug inside of me. I just had to get on the road to Makkah. I knew much would have changed in Arabia since the discovery of oil and gas in the desert kingdom. High-rise buildings had replaced tents, cars had replaced camels, and shopping malls had replaced bazaars. But the Ka'aba was still there. I just had to see it.

By coincidence, in 1993, a visitor arrived from Arabia. He invited me to visit Dhahran on business. The trip was two weeks long and I availed myself of the weekend to visit the Ka'aba.

Yes, the Arabia I saw was not the Arabia that Asad had seen. But just beneath the veneer of modernity, I could pick up the culture that Asad had described.

Before visiting Makkah, I visited Medina. When I heard the call for the morning prayer coming from the Holy Prophet's (PBUH) Mosque, tears streamed down my eyes. Later, when I went to Makkah and saw the Ka'aba with my own eyes, I was rendered speechless and immediately prostrated myself in front of the black cube.

He could no longer relate to them. They seemed to be living in a world of make-believe. His contact with the Arabs forever changed his outlook on life

Asad was born Leopold Weiss in Austria. While growing up, he had studied the history of art and listened to learned discussions of psychoanalysis in Viennese cafes. He spoke Hebrew fluently and had a working knowledge of Aramaic. He also knew the texts and commentaries of the Talmud by heart. The turning point in his life came when a German newspaper, Frankfurter Zeitung , hired him and sent him to Jerusalem.

Falsification In The Name Of A Memoir Related To Sadequain

The memoir describes his life before he left Arabia for India. During that period, he travelled across " almost all the countries between the Libyan Desert and the snow-covered peaks of the Pamirs, between the Bosporus and the Arabian Sea ." In the late summer of 1932, he traveled from the interior of Arabia to Mecca and, he says, it was during those twenty-three days that " the pattern of my life became apparent to myself ."

He laments that the Arabia he describes in the book no longer exists. " Its solitude and integrity have crumbled under a strong gush of oil and the gold that the oil has brought ." He feels the pain of losing something precious and recalls fondly " that long, long desert trek, when we rode, rode, two men on two dromedaries, through swimming light ."

In Palestine in 1922, he observed " the equivocal role of the British administration with regard to the conflict between the Arabs and the Zionists ." After wandering all over Palestine in 1923, he arrived in Egypt and saw once again the imperialist demeanour of the British toward the Arabs. But in this case, bombs were being thrown at places frequented by British soldiers and being answered by repressive measures such as martial law, political arrests, deportations of leaders, and prohibitions of newspapers.

In 1926, while riding a train from Trieste to Vienna, he found himself looking at the familiar European scenery " with the eyes of a stranger. The people seemed so ugly, their movements angular and clumsy ." He could no longer relate to them. They seemed to be living in a world of make-believe. His contact with the Arabs forever changed his outlook on life.

On returning home, he happened to glance at the Quran, which was lying on his desk. He opened it, and his eyes landed on this verse.

You are obsessed by greed for more and more, Until you go down to your graves. Nay, but you will come to know! Nay, but you will come to know!

Do You Know Who Called Muhammad Ali Jinnah Kafir-e-Azam And Why?

The verse rendered him speechless. The Quran was shaking in his hands as he handed it over to his wife: " Read this. Is it not an answer to what we saw in the subway? " This was their epiphany. He had concluded, beyond any doubt, that it was a God-inspired book.

They went to a mosque in Berlin and converted to Islam. A few years later, he and his wife boarded a steamer in Egypt, which was going to head down the Red Sea to Jeddah.

The steamer was packed with pilgrims. The waves were pounding the hull of the ship, the planks were creaking, and the engines were throbbing, but it was the cry of " Labbayk, Allahumma, Labbayk " coming from the throats of hundreds on the ship that dominated all other sounds.

When the ship crossed the latitude of Rabigh, the male pilgrims donned the ihram, the pilgrim's garment. He knew he had left the West to live among the Arabs, but he did not yet know that " without any warning, my old world was coming to an end ." For years, he had travelled widely through foreign lands but always returned to his native land. But this time, it was going to be very different.  

From Jeddah they traveled to Medina and prayed at the Holy Mosque. From there they headed to Makkah late one night, following the eastern route which the Holy Prophet (PBUH) had followed on his last pilgrimage to Makkah.

He writes, " We ride, and every step of the dromedaries brings us nearer to the end of our road. We ride for days through the sunlit steppe; we sleep at night under the stars and awake in the coolness of dawn; and slowly, I approach the end of my road ."

It is these passages that make his memoir read like an epic poem in the Homeric tradition. Its eloquent narration sets it apart from the many books that have been written about spiritual awakening. 

Dr. Faruqui is a history buff and the author of Rethinking the National Security of Pakistan , Routledge Revivals, 2020. He tweets at @ahmadfaruqui

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Return NCAA Tournament trip helping Howard University build on ‘The Mecca’ moniker

Last year, the Howard University men’s basketball team, normally donning its blue and red school colors in home and away uniforms, debuted an alternate uniform in time for Black History Month. The uniform was black with red and green accents on the jersey and the shorts.

Across the jersey in red font was “The Mecca,” a nickname well known by those who follow Howard and those familiar with historically Black colleges and universities nationwide. The Bison wore the uniforms during their NCAA Tournament run last year.

Howard men’s basketball coach Kenny Blakeney grew up in Washington, D.C., before going on to play college basketball at Duke . He’s known Howard to be The Mecca for years — and for a long time, it had nothing to do with basketball. Or sports in general at the university located in the northwest part of the nation’s capital.

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“It meant Black excellence in everything academia,” Blakeney said. “When we talked about it as high school kids around the city, talking about going to college, none of us felt like Howard was serious about athletics. There was a lack of winning tradition and history with the programs. … Nothing there from an athletic standpoint that made anybody serious about basketball want to go to Howard.”

• Follow live coverage of the 2024 men’s NCAA Tournament second round

Some things haven’t changed. Howard is considered a premier HBCU by U.S. News & World Report and still a center for Black excellence. What is changing, however, is the idea of Howard not being serious about athletics. Howard’s football team played in the Celebration Bowl in December, and on Tuesday, the Bison will play in the NCAA Tournament for the second consecutive year.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by MEACSports (@meacsports)

Howard (18-16) beat Delaware State 70-67 to win the MEAC Tournament Saturday in Norfolk, Va., and earn an automatic bid in the NCAA Tournament. The Bison will face Wagner in a battle of 16 seeds — a First Four game — Tuesday night in Dayton, Ohio. The winner gets North Carolina on Thursday afternoon in Charlotte, N.C.

One of the first references of Howard being The Mecca was in 1909, when a student, J.A. Mitchell, wrote in the Howard University Journal : “Howard indeed bids well to become the Mecca, toward which the eyes of our youth will instinctively turn.” An editorial four years later from the Journal stated: “Howard is a strategic institution. She is ‘The Mecca’ of higher education attended in main by Negro youths.”

That reputation hasn’t waned over the years. It’s actually expanded. When junior guard Bryce Harris , an All-MEAC first-team selection, chose to play at Howard, his decision didn’t solely surround basketball.

“It’s another pillar in Black history,” Harris said of Howard. “There’s a ton of historical figures that if they haven’t gone here, they’ve been here. Howard University is a crucial part in Black history, to say the very least.”

Holding a confident nickname means backing it up with evidence. Howard was founded in 1867 and boasts several prominent alumni, including Vice President Kamala Harris (first woman and first Black vice president), Thurgood Marshall (first Black Supreme Court Justice) and authors Toni Morrison and Ta-Nehisi Coates. Additionally, Anthony Anderson, Phylicia Rashad, Taraji P. Henson and the late Chadwick Boseman are among the prominent actors who have earned Howard degrees.

Five of the nine oldest predominantly Black Greek-lettered organizations were founded at Howard. The school has also long been a part of popular culture, oftentimes mentioned in songs and represented on T-shirts, sweatshirts and hats.

But on Tuesday, the focus will be on Howard’s basketball team. The Bison battled injuries all season to win the MEAC Tournament. As a No. 4 seed in the MEAC Tournament, Howard beat top-seeded Norfolk State in the semifinal round after losing twice to the Spartans in the regular season.

Harris, at 6 foot 4, leads the team in scoring and rebounds, averaging 16.6 points and 7.6 rebounds per game. Harris is the only Howard player to start all 34 games this season. Seth Towns , a 6-9 forward and another all-MEAC selection, is averaging 14.2 points and leads the team in assists. Guards Marcus Dockery and Jordan Hairston played all 40 minutes and combined for 33 points against Delaware State.

When he accepted the coaching position at Howard, Blakeney believed it was possible to build a winning team. After a 4-29 record in his first year, the 2019-20 season, and a following season halted by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Bison are 56-42 over the last three seasons.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Howard Univ. Men’s Basketball (@humensbb)

Blakeney firmly believes athletic success can further enhance the profile of a school that already owns an academic reputation. He saw it while at Duke from 1991-95 when the basketball team garnered plenty of attention with winning seasons. He’s hoping Howard can write a similar chapter. A strong showing by his team on Tuesday can be a stepping stone.

“We had the Kamala effect at Howard when she got into office, and hopefully with the basketball visibility now, it’s telling a story through a different lens, an athletic sports lens, a basketball lens on a national stage,” Blakeney said. “(Tuesday) is going to be a two-hour infomercial for Howard University, talking about the history and the tradition and the culture of our fine university.”

Howard can make history Tuesday with a win over Wagner. The Bison have never won an NCAA Tournament game. They lost to Kansas 96-68 last year.

Harris said Blakeney has created a basketball culture that fully embraces The Mecca concept, an idea that could make the program one to watch for years to come.

“All we want to do is to be able to hold ourselves accountable to that,” Harris said. “We don’t want to let those people down. … We can elevate where we are, so the people after us can be at a higher level than we were.”

(Photo of Bryce Harris: Tim Nwachukwu / Getty Images)

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Jason Jones is a staff writer for The Athletic, covering Culture. Previously, he spent 16 years at the Sacramento Bee, covering the Sacramento Kings and Oakland Raiders. He's a proud Southern California native and a graduate of the University of California at Berkeley Follow Jason on Twitter @ mr_jasonjones