Makkah calls Muslims from all corners of the globe. While Umrah and Hajj hold immense significance, the city offers a wealth of experiences that enrich your understanding of Islam and its history. This guide unveils some of the best things to do in Makkah, transforming your visit into a captivating exploration.
But what exactly makes Makkah so significant? Delve deeper with us as we explore the rich tapestry of Makkah's importance in Islamic history.
Importance of Makkah in Islamic history.
Makkah holds immense significance in Islamic history for several reasons:
Birthplace of Islam: Makkah is the birthplace of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), considered the founder of Islam.
Home to the Kaaba: The holiest site in Islam, the Kaaba, is located in the Grand Mosque (Masjid al-Haram) in Makkah.
Centre of Pilgrimage: Hajj, the pilgrimage to Makkah, is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. Every able-bodied Muslim must strive to complete the Hajj at least once in their lifetime.
In essence, Makkah is the cradle of Islam it serves as a constant reminder for Muslims of their faith and history.
Top Makkah Attractions
While pilgrimage is a central focus, Makkah offers a wealth of experiences for every visitor:
Visit The Makkah Museum
During your trip to Makkah, one of the best things to do in Makkah after Umrah is to visit The Makkah Museum otherwise known as the Al-Zaher Palace Museum.
The Makkah Museum, housed within the historic Al-Zaher Palace, offers a fascinating glimpse into the city's rich past and significance.
Built by King Abdulaziz, The museum boasts three floors. The ground floor features a central hall, adorned with a coloured marble fountain and a dome. Galleries branch off from this central point, offering sections to:
Archaeology of Saudi Arabia: Explore the region's ancient past.
Pre-history of Makkah: Uncover the city's earliest story.
Geological and Natural History: Learn about Makkah's natural wonders.
Pre-Islamic Makkah: Delve into the city's history before Islam.
Prophet's Biography: Trace the life of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
Development of Arabic Writing: Discover the evolution of the Arabic script.
Currencies: Explore the historical forms of currency used in the region.
Pilgrimage: Learn about the significance of Hajj and Umrah.
Architecture of the Holy Mosque: Dive into the architectural marvels of the Kaaba and surrounding structures.
Three Stages of the Saudi State: Understand the history of the Saudi Kingdom.
History of Education: Explore the development of education in Makkah.
Makkah Heritage: Immerse yourself in the city's unique traditions.
Masterpieces of Islamic Art: Admire stunning examples of Islamic artistic expression.
Pray at Al Masjid Al-Haram
For many people, a trip to Makkah is incomplete without visiting Masjid Al-Haram, otherwise known as the Grand Mosque, Holy Mosque or Haram Mosque with the name "Masjid Al Haram" translating to "The Sacred Mosque.".
It is the holiest site in Islam and the largest mosque in the world. Located in the heart of Makkah, Saudi Arabia, it is a pilgrimage destination for millions of Muslims annually.
Masjid Al-Haram holds immense importance because it surrounds the Kaaba, the holiest shrine in Islam, and millions travel to Makkah yearly just to pray there or Perform Hajj.
Location: Al Haram, Makkah 24231, Saudi Arabia.
Explore Abraj Al Bait Towers
If you are in the market for relaxing Makkah activities, then consider exploring Abraj Al Bait the largest hotel complex globally, accommodating over 4 million guests annually.
Abraj Al Bait Towers, also known as the Clock Towers, offer an unparalleled experience for visitors. Catering to pilgrims with seven skyscraper hotels, providing luxurious accommodations, breathtaking views of the Kaaba and high-end services to ensure a comfortable and fulfilling pilgrimage journey.
The crown jewel is the Abraj Al Bait Shopping Center, the largest retail complex in Makkah. Hosting over 600 stores spread across seven floors that cater to every shopping desire, from international brands to hypermarkets. The towers attract over 20 million visitors a year, making them a bustling centre of activity. The Clock Towers themselves are a sight to behold, as it is the third tallest building globally and boasts the highest clock tower in the world
Location: الملاوي, Makkah Saudi Arabia.
Shop at City Centre Mall
One of the best unmissable experiences after Umrah is to just wind down and relax at the City Centre Mall. It is located in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, and is a modern shopping and entertainment centre that offers a unique experience for visitors. Established in 2011, it has quickly become a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
Opening Hours: City Centre Mall opens its doors from Saturday to Thursday from 08:00 AM to 05:00 PM.
Location: Al Mansur, Makkah 24231, Saudi Arabia.
Wander Through the Clock Tower Museum
Now if you were looking for things to do in Makkah during Umrah, then a simple detour to the Clock Tower Museum is exactly what you are looking for. Top the Abraj Al Bait Towers, the world's tallest clock tower complex, the Makkah Clock Tower Museum sits waiting for visitors to embark on an adventure through the cosmos, the solar system, and the fascinating world of timekeeping.
Explore the Cave of Hira
For many Muslims visitng Jabal al-Hira is one of the best cultural experiences to undergo during Umrah, is visiting the Cave of Hira. Situated on Jabal Al-Hira, the cave is roughly 4 kilometres from the Kaaba at a height of 634 meters. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is believed to have received the first verses of the Quran from the Angel Gabriel. This marked the beginning of Islam's holy book the Quran.
Despite the challenges, as reaching the cave requires a climb up Jabal Al-Nour, the Cave of Hira remains a revered site for Muslims worldwide.
Location: جبل النور 4686, Makkah 24238, Saudi Arabia.
Jannat Al-Mu’alla Cemetery
In Makkah, lies the Jannat Al-Mu'alla cemetery, a site steeped in Islamic history. Jannat Al-Mu'alla, meaning "The Most Exalted Paradise," holds immense significance for Muslims as the resting place of many relatives of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Jannat Al-Mu'alla's history stretches back centuries, with many of Prophet Muhammad's relatives buried here before he migrated to Madinah in 622.
Sadly, the original tombs and structures built over the graves were demolished in 1925. Despite the absence of original markers, the cemetery remains a revered site for Muslims worldwide, visitors pay their respects to the entire area, acknowledging the importance of those buried here
Experience the Hira Cultural District
To round up our list of the top things to do in Makkah, we have arguably one of the most fun activities in Makkah, the Hira Cultural District. The Hira Cultural District is a unique tourist landmark located next to the famous landmark of Jabal Al-Nour.
The district provides a culturally, historically, and entertaining journey for visitors. The area of the district is estimated at 67,000 square meters.
Here are some of the things you can see and do at the Hira Cultural District:
The Revelation Gallery: This is the main destination in the district. Through a technical presentation, it presents visitors with the story of the revelations of the Prophet (PUBH).
Museum of the Holy Quran: The first museum about the Holy Quran in Makkah. It shows the greatness of the Quran and the extent of its impact on the lives of Muslims, through modern technologies.
Saudi Coffee Museum: The museum offers visitors the experience of Saudi coffee. Visitors can also learn about the types of coffee and methods of its preparation in Saudi Arabia.
The Cultural Library: The library includes books, scientific references, exhibits, and various technologies that tell rich and cultural information about the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah, the holy sites, and the biography of the Prophet (PBUH).
Hira Garden: This green oasis features a carpet of grass, inviting relaxation with its comfortable seating and private cabins.
Hira Cabins: These mountainside retreats offer premium hotel suites, each with a private balcony boasting panoramic views of Jabal Al-Nour.
Up the cave: Visitors can retrace the steps of history by climbing the paved path that leads to the Cave of Hira. This revered location played a pivotal role in the revelation received by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). The well-maintained walkway offers a comfortable ascent to the cave.
Opening Hours: The Hira Cultural District opens from Sunday To Thursday: 8:30 AM to 9:30 PM, Friday: 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM, and on Saturday: 8:30 AM to 9:30 PM
FAQs
Q. What are the best times to visit the Grand Mosque in Makkah?
A. We would advise you to visit either early in the morning at around 7:00 AM, or late at night at around 11:00 PM to be able to experience the Grand Mosque with fewer crowds around.
Q. Are there specific guidelines or dress codes to follow when visiting Makkah?
A. When entering Makkah for Hajj or Umrah you will need to be wearing specific clothes, which are as follows
Before Entering Ihram:
Men: Wear comfortable clothing you brought from home or choose from readily available options in Mecca.
Women: Opt for conservative, long, and loose-fitting clothing. Ensure your hair is completely covered with a proper hijab, not a loose scarf.
Once in Ihram:
Both Men and Women: Ihram requires special garments. Men wear two seamless white clothes, while women can wear any stitched clothing that meets the criteria of modesty. Remember, comfort is key during your pilgrimage!
Additional Tips for Umrah:
Dress in layers, especially if visiting in April. Mecca's temperatures can fluctuate.
Black and white abayas are popular choices for women during Umrah, symbolizing modesty and offering comfort.
Q. What transportation options are available for getting around Makkah?
A. There are many transportation options available in Makkah such as riding a taxi, taking the bus, or simply driving either your car or renting a car.
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