Meaning "cube" in Arabic, the Kaaba is a cube-shaped monument elegantly draped in a black cotton and silk veil adorned with gold inscriptions from the Holy Quran, known as the Kiswa. This covering encases all the walls of the House of Allah (SWT). The Holy Kaaba is situated at the centre of Masjid Al Haram (The Great Mosque) in the Hejaz Region of Mecca, Saudi Arabia, and is the most revered site in Islam. Following the command of Allah (SWT) and the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), Muslims face the Kaaba during the five daily prayers and cherish the aspiration of visiting it to perform the pilgrimage (Hajj). The Kaaba is also referred to as Bait-al-Atiq, Bait-al-Haram, Bayt Allah, and Khana Kaaba.
Read more:
What is special about the Kaaba? Important Facts about the Kaaba.
The Kaaba is located in the centre of Masjid Al-Haram (The Great Mosque) in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. It is a cube-shaped building, approximately 15 meters high and 10.5 meters wide. The Kaaba is the qibla, the direction Muslims face during their five daily prayers. It is the focal point for the pilgrimage (Hajj) and Umrah, which Muslims aim to perform at least once in their lifetime. Some scholars believe that the Kaaba was first built by Adam (peace be upon him) with the help of angels. It was later rebuilt by Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and his son Ismail (Ishmael) (peace be upon them).
History of Kaaba Sharif & Everything to Know About the Kaaba
Important facts about Kaaba in Makkah:
Some Islamic scholars, based on the narrations of the Companions, believe that Adam (peace be upon him) was the first to build the Sacred Mosque with the help of angels. Centuries later, the Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him) was commanded to rebuild the Kaaba with his son Ismail (peace be upon him), where Ismail would bring the stones while Ibrahim built. The stone used by Ibrahim to complete the construction is now known as "Maqam Ibrahim."
Notable Events in the History of the Kaaba:
1. Construction by Adam (peace be upon him): It is believed that Adam (peace be upon him) built the Sacred Mosque with the help of angels.
2. Rebuilding by Ibrahim and Ismail (peace be upon them): Centuries later, the Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him) and his son Ismail (peace be upon him) rebuilt the Kaaba.
3. The stone used by Ibrahim: It is known now as Maqam Ibrahim.
4. Settlement of Arab tribes: Tribes like the Amaleeq and Jurhum settled in Mecca and repaired the Kaaba when it cracked due to natural factors.
5. Rebuilding by the Quraysh: In the year 605 AD, the Quraysh rebuilt the Kaaba, increasing its height to 18 cubits, closing the western door, adding an eastern door, and installing a roof.
6. Rebuilding by Abdullah ibn al-Zubayr: During the reign of Abdullah ibn al-Zubayr, the Kaaba was burned. He rebuilt it from the foundations of Ibrahim, including the Hijr Ismail, increased its height by 10 more cubits, and added two doors at ground level on the eastern and western sides.
The Kaaba is not just a building but a religious symbol of immense importance in Islam, serving as the Qibla (direction of prayer) for Muslims and a focal point for the rituals of Hajj and Umrah.
Here's a guide on how to reach Kaaba from different cities
From Major Cities in Saudi Arabia:
1. Riyadh to Mecca:
By Air: Direct flights are available from King Khalid International Airport (RUH) to King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) in Jeddah. From Jeddah, Mecca is about an hour's drive.
By Road: The distance is approximately 870 km, which can be covered in about 9-10 hours by car or bus.
2. Jeddah to Mecca:
By Road: Mecca is about 70 km from Jeddah. It takes roughly an hour to drive. Taxis and buses are readily available.
3. Medina to Mecca:
By Air: Direct flights are available from Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz Airport (MED) to King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED).
By Road: The distance is around 450 km, taking about 4-5 hours by car or bus. There is also a high-speed train service (Haramain Express) connecting Medina to Mecca, which takes approximately 2 hours.
4. From International Cities:
1. From the United States or Europe:
By Air: Most international flights land at King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) in Jeddah. From Jeddah, travellers can take a taxi or bus to Mecca.
2. From Asia:
By Air: Flights from major Asian cities also typically land at King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED). From there, travellers can proceed to Mecca by road.
3. From Africa:
By Air: Direct flights to Jeddah are available from several African cities. From Jeddah, Mecca is accessible by road.
Get to know more about
Frequently Asked Questions All about the Kaaba
Q1 What are the best hotels in Makkah?
Find the Best Hotels in Mecca WIth Almosafer
Q2 What are the best Hotels near Makkah airport?
Hotels near King Abdulaziz Intl Airport:
.png)