Makkah, the holiest city in Islam, beckons pilgrims and travellers alike with its rich tapestry of history, spirituality, and cultural charm. But beyond the sacred rituals of Hajj and Umrah, Makkah offers a wealth of experiences waiting to be discovered.
With many tourist places in Makkah, a guide to the 15 of the best things to see in Makkah is greatly needed. Let’s take a trip through the historical places to visit in Makkah, Makkah tourist attractions, and the best places to visit in Makkah during Umrah.
Makkah Tourist Attractions: Top Places to Go in Makkah in 2024
Let’s take a look at the top places to see in Makkah, including the top family Makkah tourist places and the best places to go in Makkah for solo travellers:
Makkah Museum
One of the best places to visit in Makkah is the Makkah Museum. It stands as a testament to the rich history and heritage of the holy city. Formerly known as the Al-Zaher Palace, it was built in 1944 and served as the residence of King Abdulaziz, the founder of Saudi Arabia. Within its walls, this museum delves into the rich heritage of Makkah and offers insights into the teachings of the Quran and the Sunnah.
Time to visit: The Makkah Museum is open daily from 9 AM to 4 PM
Location: Makkah Al Madinah Munawawrah Rd, Az Zahir, Makkah 24222, Saudi Arabia.
Tickets: General admission is free of charge.
Hira Cultural District
Another one of the best Makkah tourist attractions is the Hira Cultural District, which offers a unique blend of cultural, historical, and spiritual experiences. The centre aims to educate and inspire visitors about the significance of this location and its connection to Islam.
What makes the Hira Cultural District truly one of the best tourist places in Makkah is its exhibits and experiences: Museum of the Holy Quran, Revelation Exhibition, and Islamic Heritage Exhibitions. Overall, the Hira Cultural District is a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about Islam, its history, and its significance in the region.
Time to visit: Open daily from 8:30 AM to 9:30 PM. On Fridays, the Hira Cultural District opens from 4 PM to 10 PM
Location: 3427, Jabal An-Nur, 6389, Saudi Arabia Makkah SA, Makkah 24239, Saudi Arabia.
Arak Park
Another one of the best things to see in Makkah is Arak Park. Located in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, the park offers a serene escape amidst the urban landscape. Filled with palm trees, lawns, and gardens, the park provides a refreshing atmosphere for adults and playground areas for children.
Soak up the sunshine, read a book, enjoy the calming greenery and admire the surrounding cityscape, including glimpses of the minarets of the Aisha Al Rajhi Mosque in this great Makkah tourist place.
Time to visit: This tourist place in Makkah is open 24 hours!
The Clock Towers
One of the best things to see in Makkah is The Clock Towers, also known as Abraj Al Bait, which is a colossal complex of seven skyscraper hotels in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. It's an impressive sight to behold, especially at night.
The complex houses thousands of hotel rooms and suites across the seven towers. The Clock Towers complex also includes a shopping mall, featuring over 600 retail outlets.
Location: Makkah, Saudi Arabia.
The Kiswa Factory of the Holy Kaaba
Another prominent Makkah tourist place is The Kiswa Factory of the Holy Kaaba, officially known as the King Abdulaziz Complex for the Kiswa of the Holy Kaaba. It is a unique and sacred place in Makkah dedicated to crafting the annual covering for the Kaaba, the holiest site in Islam.
Time to visit: Open from Monday to Thursday 8 AM to 11 AM.
Location: حي، 8308 Old Makkah Jeddah Rd, Al Hamra Umm Al Jud، 2903, Makkah 24321, Saudi Arabia.
Makkah Mall
Another one of the great tourist places in Makkah is the Makkah Mall, located on King Abdul Aziz Road. It is a popular destination for both locals and travellers visiting the holy city. It offers a convenient and vibrant shopping experience with a range of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options spread across two floors.
The mall boasts hundreds of retail establishments, housing a mix of international and local brands. Whether you're looking for high-end fashion, everyday essentials, souvenirs, or religious items, you're likely to find what you need in this amazing Makkah tourist place
Time to visit: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 11:30 PM
Location: King Abdullah Rd, Al Jamiah, Makkah 24246, Saudi Arabia.
Tickets: Entry to the Makkah Mall is free of charge.
Al-Hokair Funland Makkah
Al-Hokair Funland Makkah is an indoor amusement park that's perfect for families with young children. This fun Makkah tourist place features activities for all ages, exciting rides, arcade games and many activity zones.
Time to visit: Open Sunday-Wednesday: 4 PM - 11 PM, Thursday: Noon-Midnight, Friday: 2 PM - Midnight, Saturday: 10 AM - 11 PM.
Location: Al Madinah Al Munawarah Rd, Az Zahir, Makkah 24222, Saudi Arabia.
Historical Places to Visit in Makkah
Mount Arafat
One of the top historical places to visit in Makkah is Mount Arafat, also known as Jabal al-Rahmah (the Mountain of Mercy). It is a granite hill located southeast of Makkah. Mount Arafat holds immense significance in the Islamic faith and history.
During the annual Hajj pilgrimage, Mount Arafat becomes the focal point for the Day of Arafat, considered the most crucial day of the ritual. Here, pilgrims gather, pray, and reflect, seeking forgiveness and mercy from Allah.
Today, the hill is surrounded by a vast plain, the Plain of Arafat, encompassing over 100 square kilometres. During Hajj, this plain transforms into a sea of white tents, filled with pilgrims clad in Ihram.
Location: Al Mashair, Makkah 24258, Saudi Arabia.
Masjid Al-Jinn
Located near Jannat al-Mu'alla cemetery in Makkah, marks the spot where, according to Islamic narratives, Prophet Muhammad recited the Quran to a gathering of Jinn. The Jinn were deeply moved by the recitation and embraced Islam, pledging their allegiance to the Prophet.
Jabal Al Nour
One more historical Place to Visit in Makkah is Jabal Al Nour, also known as the Mountain of Light or the Hill of Illumination. It is a rocky peak located northwest of Makkah, Saudi Arabia. It holds immense significance for Muslims as the mountain where Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) received his first revelation from Angel Gabriel in the Cave of Hira.
Climbing the mountain and entering the Cave of Hira is considered a deeply spiritual experience, allowing pilgrims to connect with the origins of Islam and the momentous event that unfolded there. Additionally, the breathtaking views from the summit offer a unique perspective of the holy city of Makkah.
Location: Jabal An Nur, Makkah 24238, Saudi Arabia.
Places to Visit in Makkah During Umrah in 2024
Explore our comprehensive list of the best places to see in Makkah during Umrah in 2024:
Masjid Al-Haram
The Masjid Al-Haram, also known as the Great Mosque of Mecca, is not just one of the most prominent ziyarat places in Makkah or just a place of worship; it's a spiritual and historical landmark, the heart of Islam, and a breathtaking architectural marvel. Despite the bustling crowds during peak periods, the Masjid Al-Haram exudes a sense of peace and serenity. The murmur of prayers, the rhythmic recitation of the Quran, and the gentle swaying of pilgrims combine to create a unique and profound spiritual atmosphere.
Location: Al Haram, Makkah 24231, Saudi Arabia.
Tickets: Entry to the Masjid Al-Haram is free of charge.
Al-Kaaba
The holiest site in Islam, the Al-Kaaba is a cuboid-shaped structure located at the centre of the Great Mosque of Mecca in Saudi Arabia. It is considered by Muslims to be the Bayt Allah (House of God) and is the qibla (direction of prayer) for Muslims around the world.
It is mentioned in the Quran as the first House of God on Earth. Muslims from all over the world dream of making the pilgrimage to Makkah and circumambulating the Kaaba considered one of the five pillars of Islam.
Location: Al Haram, Makkah 24231, Saudi Arabia.
Tickets: The Kaaba is free to enter
The Station of Ibrahim
The Station of Ibrahim, also known as Maqam Ibrahim, is a significant ziyarat place in Makkah within the Grand Mosque of Mecca, holding historical and religious importance for Muslims.
City of Mina
Mina, also known as the "City of Tents," is a valley located east of Makkah, Saudi Arabia. During the annual Hajj pilgrimage, it transforms into a temporary city bustling with millions of pilgrims. Mina is primarily known for its massive tented city. These air-conditioned tents provide basic amenities like beds, electricity, and bathrooms, catering to the needs of pilgrims during their stay. While Mina remains largely deserted throughout the year, it comes alive during the Hajj, resembling a sprawling white sea stretched across the valley.
Location: Al Mashair, Makkah, Saudi Arabia.
Aisha Al Rajhi Mosque
Another one of the most prominent ziyarat places in Makkah is the Aisha Al Rajhi Mosque. This mosque is located in Makkah, west of the Masjid Al-Haram. Today, the mosque is used by pilgrims entering Ihram before making their journey to Makkah. It features modern Islamic architecture with historical touches. It also offers facilities for baths, ablutions, and changing.
FAQs l Makkah trip
What is the nearest airport to Makkah?
The nearest airport to Makkah is the King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) Airport in Jeddah.
What is the best time to visit Makkah?
Outside of Hajj season, the best time is usually November and December for their mild temperatures and low rainfall.
What is the best airport for Umrah?
The King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) in Jeddah is ideal for most pilgrims. However, some pilgrims may first want to fly to the city of Madinah, Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz Airport (MED)
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