visit the mecca

• 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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Must-see attractions in Mecca

Al Masjid Al Haram

The focal point for every Muslim and the biggest mosque in the world, Al Masjid Al Haram is able to host a million worshippers and covers an area of 356…

Exhibition of the Two Holy Mosques

This little museum is brimming with relics from the two holy mosques, Al Masjid Al Haram in Mecca and the Prophet's Mosque in Medina. These include…

Cave of Thor

This small mountain (761m) is where the Prophet hid for three days with his companion Abu Bakr from the Quraysh tribe. According to Islamic custom, an…

Jabal Al Nour

The 640m-tall Jabal Al Nour is the location of the tiny Hira cave and one of the most important Islamic pilgrimage sites. According to Islamic tradition,…

Jabal Rahmah

Also known as the Mountain of Mercy, this granite hill is an important part of performing the hajj as pilgrims leave Mina for Arafat on the ninth day to…

Makkah Museum

Formerly Al Zahir Palace, the 3435-sq-metre Makkah Museum has a collection ranging from images of Saudi Arabia’s important archaeological discoveries to…

Jannat Al Muallaa Cemetery

Many of the Prophet’s family are buried here, including his first wife, Khadija, his sons Qasim and Abdullah, his uncle, Abu Talib, and his grandfather,…

Masjid Al Bay'ah

These remnants of Masjid Al Bay'ah mark the spot where tribal leaders pledged their allegiance to Muhammad in AD 621. Simple in design, an arched entrance…

Birthplace of Muhammad

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Al Hukair Funland

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Masjid Al Khayf

According to a hadith (Prophetic tradition) of Bin Abbas – a cousin of the Prophet and an early Islamic scholar – numerous prophets prayed here. It's…

Mecca ( Makkah in Arabic) is the center of the Islamic world and the birthplace of both the Prophet Muhammad and the religion he founded. Located in the Sarat Mountains of central Saudi Arabia and 45 miles inland from the Red Sea port of Jidda (Jeddah), ancient Mecca was an oasis on the old caravan trade route that linked the Mediterranean world with South Arabia, East Africa, and South Asia. By Roman and Byzantine times it had developed into an important trade and religious center, and was known as Macoraba. The sacred land in which Mecca and Medina are located, known as the Hijaz, is the western region of the Arabian peninsula, a narrow tract of land about 875 miles long east of the Red Sea with the Tropic of Cancer running through its center. The land is called Hijaz, meaning barrier, because its backbone, the Sarat Mountains consist of volcanic peaks and natural depressions creating a stark and rugged environment dominated by intense sunlight and little rain fall.

According to ancient Arabian traditions, when Adam and Eve were cast from Paradise they fell to different parts of the earth; Adam on a mountain on the island of Serendip, or Sri Lanka, and Eve in Arabia, on the border of the Red Sea near the port of Jeddah. For two hundred years Adam and Eve wandered separate and lonely about the earth. Finally, in consideration of their penitence and wretchedness, God permitted them to come together again on Mt. Arafat, near the present city of Mecca (previously called Becca or Bakkah, meaning narrow valley). Adam then prayed to God that a shrine might be granted to him similar to that at which he had worshipped in Paradise. Adam's prayers were answered and a shrine was built. (This is a pre-Islamic legend and the Koran, the Islamic Holy Scripture, says nothing whatsoever of Adam's connection with Mecca or of a shrine he prayed at). Adam is said to have died and been buried in Mecca and Eve in Jeddah by the sea which still bears her name, jiddah, meaning maternal ancestor in Arabic.

This shrine passed away during the era of the flood, at which time the body of Adam began to float on the water while the Ark of Noah circumambulated around it and the Ka'ba seven times before journeying north where it landed after the flood. A thousand years later, according to one Islamic tradition in 1892 BC, the great patriarch of monotheism, Abraham, or Ibrahim, came to Mecca with his Egyptian wife Hagar and their child Ishmael. Here Hagar lived with her son in a small house, at the site of the earlier shrine, and Abraham came to visit her occasionally.

Nearly all scholars trace the sanctity of Mecca to the Ka'ba edifice later rebuilt at God's express command by Abraham and Ishmael. Mention must be made, however, of the Zamzan spring and the nearby holy hills of Safa and Marwa (these hills have since disappeared under the leveling topography of modern Mecca). These geographical formations certainly predated the mythical construction of the Ka'ba and could therefore have given birth to the original sanctity of the place. According to Islamic legend, Abraham had left Mecca on God's command, leaving Hagar and Ishmael with only some water and dates. Hagar nursed her son and they drank the remaining water. Soon thereafter, faced with great thirst, Ishmael started to cry and Hagar began to run between the hills of Safa and Marwa looking for water. She repeated the journey seven times until an angel appeared to her, striking the ground with his wing, with the result that the Zamzam spring, which Muslims consider as a tributary of the waters of Paradise, sprang forth. Henceforth Mecca was graced with a source of water which has continued flowing to this day.

After the departure and return of Abraham to Mecca, and his discovery that Hagar had died, Abraham was then ordered by God to make Hagar's house into a temple where people could pray. Therefore, he demolished the house and began construction of the Ka'ba. God gave Abraham precise instructions concerning how to rebuild the shrine and Gabriel showed him the location. It is said that by the grace of God the Divine Peace (al-sakinah) descended in the form of a wind which brought a cloud in the shape of a dragon that revealed to Abraham and Ishmael the site of the old temple. They were told to construct the shrine directly upon the shadow of the cloud, neither exceeding nor diminishing its dimensions. Legends say the shrine was built from the stones of five sacred mountains: Mt. Sinai, the Mount of Olives, Mt. Lebanon, Al-Judi, and nearby Mt. Hira. Upon the completion of the shrine, Gabriel brought a magic stone for the sanctuary. Different sources speculate that this stone was a meteorite or a great white sapphire from the Garden of Eden, that it had been concealed on the nearby sacred mountain of Abu Qubays during the period of the flood, and that it was later restored to Abraham for inclusion in his version of the Ka'ba. Whatever its ultimate origin, the stone was most probably a sacred object of the pre-Islamic Arabian nomads who had settled around the Zamzam spring that flows at the center of old Mecca. Upon completion of the Ka'ba, Abraham and Ishmael, accompanied by the archangel Gabriel, then performed all the elements which constitute the Hajj ritual of today. The Ka'ba they had constructed was destined to become the most important sacred site of the nomadic tribes that inhabited the great Arabian deserts. (Abraham was later to leave Mecca to die in Palestine in al-Khalil).

With the passage of centuries, the original Abrahamic observances at the Ka'ba were progressively diluted by the addition of various pagan elements (these arriving via the caravan routes that led to Mecca). The pilgrims of pre-Islamic times visited not only the house of Abraham and the sacred stone of Gabriel but also the collection of stone idols (representing different deities) housed in and around the Ka'ba. There were said to be 360 different deities including Awf, the great bird, Hubal the Nabatean god, the three celestial goddesses Allat, Aluzza and Manat, and statues of Mary and Jesus. The most important of all these deities, and chief of the Meccan pantheon, was known as Allah (meaning "the god"). Worshipped throughout southern Syria and northern Arabia, and the only deity not represented by an idol in the Ka'ba, Allah would later become the sole god of the Muslims.

The city of Mecca achieved its major religious significance following the birth and life of the Prophet Muhammad (570-632AD). In 630 Muhammad took control of Mecca and destroyed the 360 pagan idols, with the notable exception of the statues of Mary and Jesus. The idol of Hubal, the largest in Mecca, was a giant stone situated atop the Ka'ba. Following the command of the Prophet, Ali (the cousin of Muhammad) stood on Muhammad's shoulders, climbed to the top of the Ka'ba and toppled that idol.

Following his destruction of the pagan idols, Muhammad joined certain of the ancient Meccan rituals with the Hajj pilgrimage to Mt. Arafat (another pre-Islamic tradition), declared the city a center of Muslim pilgrimage and dedicated it to the worship of Allah alone. Muhammad did not, however, destroy the Ka'ba and the sacred stone it housed. Rather, he made them the centerpiece of the Muslim religion based on his belief that he was a prophetic reformer who had been sent by god to restore the rites first established by Abraham that had been corrupted over the centuries by the pagan influences. Thus, by gaining both religious and political control over Mecca, Muhammad was able to redefine the sacred territory and restore Abraham's original order to it.

According to the original words of Muhammad, the Hajj pilgrimage is the fifth of the fundamental Muslim practices known as the 'Five Pillars of Islam'. The Hajj is an obligation to be performed at least once by all male and female adults whose health and finances permit it. The pilgrimage takes place each year between the 8th and 13th days of Dhu al-Hijjah, the 12th month of the Islamic lunar calendar. Before setting out, a pilgrim should redress all wrongs, pay all debts, and plan to have enough money for their journey and the support of their family while away.

As pilgrims undertake the journey they follow in the footsteps of many millions before them. When the pilgrim is about 10 kilometers from Mecca he enters the state of holiness and purity known as Ihram, and dons special garments consisting of two white seamless sheets that are wrapped around the body. Entering the great Mosque in Mecca, the pilgrim first walks seven times around the Ka'ba shrine in a counterclockwise direction; this ritual is called turning, or tawaf. Next, entering into the shrine, the pilgrim kisses the sacred stone. The stone is mounted in a silver frame in the wall, four feet above the ground, in the southeast corner of the shrine. It is of an oval shape about twelve inches in diameter, composed of seven small stones (possibly basalt) of different sizes and shapes joined together with cement. Legend tells that the stone (al-Hajaru al-Aswad, the 'Black Stone') was originally white but became gradually darkened by the kisses of sinful mortals (some traditions say by the sins of 'offsprings of Adam').

During the next few days the pilgrim walks a ritualized route to other sacred places in the Mecca vicinity (Mina, Muzdalifah, Arafat, the Mount of Mercy and Mt. Namira) and returns to the Ka'ba on the final day (the word Hajj probably derives from an old Semitic root meaning 'to go around, to go in a circle'). The plain of Arafat where millions of pilgrims assemble in a vast congregation symbolizes the plain of Mahshar or Resurrection where everyone will stand before God on the Day of Judgement. In the middle of Arafat stands Jabal al-Rahmah or the Mount of Mercy where the last verses of the Koran were revealed and where one of the famous farewell addresses of the Prophet was delivered. It is here that the alchemy of union between various aspects of human nature takes place and where men and women regain their primordial spiritual wholeness, for it was here that Adam and Eve found each other again after their fall to earth from Paradise. At Mina, where the Prophet delivered his last words during his final pilgrimage, pilgrims cast stones against three large stone pillars representing Satan (al-Shaytan) as a symbol of the eternal battle that must be waged against the demons within. Finally there is the sacrifice of an animal, a sheep or a camel, in emulation of Abraham's preparation to sacrifice his son Ishmael.

Once a believer has made the pilgrimage to Mecca men may add the title al-Hajji to their name, hajjiyah for females. In different Islamic countries returning pilgrims will use a variety of signs to indicate they have made the Hajj; these include painting pictures of the Ka'ba (and the pilgrim's means of transportation to the shrine) upon the walls of their homes, painting the entrance doorway of the house bright green, and wearing hats or scarves of green color. A so-called Minor Pilgrimage, known as the Umra, contains some but not all of the rites of the Hajj and may be performed at any time of the year.

The area around the Ka'ba was enclosed by a wall in 638 to create a defined space for the tawaf ritual of circumambulation. In 684 the mosque was further enlarged and ornamented with numerous mosaic and marble decorations. In 709 the Umayyad caliph Al-Walid placed a wooden roof upon marble columns to protect the arcades of the mosque, and between 754 and 757 the Abbasid Caliph Al-Mansur carried out further enlargements, including the first minaret. During the next 700 years numerous modifications were carried out although no major alterations to the form of the building occurred until the Ottoman period in the 16th century (in the 10th century the Black Stone was actually stolen for a period of twenty-one years by the Carmathians). Large-scale renovations and remodeling was undertaken in 1564 during the reign of the Ottoman Sultan Sulayman the Magnificent, who rebuilt the minarets and replaced the wooden roofs of the arcades with stone domes. The next major rebuilding of the mosque occurred in the 20th century under the direction of the Saudi royal family and resulted in the Mecca mosque becoming the largest in the world.

The Ka'ba today stands in the midst of an open courtyard known as the al-masjid al-haram, the 'sanctuary'. The cubical (the word Ka'ba means "cube"), flat-roofed building rises fifty feet from a narrow marble base on mortared bases of a local blue-gray stone. Its dimensions are not exactly cubical: the northeastern and southwestern walls are forty feet long, while the other two walls are five feet shorter (12 meters long, 10 meters broad, 16 meters high). The structure's corners, rather than the walls, are oriented toward the compass points. The east and west walls are aligned to the sunrise at the summer solstice and sunset at the winter solstice. The south wall is directed to the rising of the bright star Canopus. The northeastern wall has the only door of the building, about seven feet above the ground level. Inside is an empty room with a marble floor and three wooden pillars supporting the roof. There are some inscriptions on the walls, hanging votive lamps, and a ladder leading up to the roof. The entire Ka'ba structure is draped with a black silk covering, called a kiswa, upon which passages from the Koran are embroidered in gold. The kiswa is renewed every year and the old kiswah is cut up and distributed so as to allow the barakah of the ka'ba to emanate among those to whom the pieces of the cloth are given. During the early centuries of Islamic history the kiswah was made in Egypt and carried with great ceremony to Mecca but now it is fashioned near the holy city itself.

Opposite the northwestern wall of the Ka'ba is an area of special sanctity called the Hijr, which Muslim tradition identifies as the burial place of Hagar and Ishmael (and here, too, Ishmael had been promised by God that a gate into heaven would be opened for him). In Muhammad's time, the Hijr was a place used for discussion, prayer and, significantly, for sleep. The sleepers in the Hijr appear to have gone there specifically to have dreams of divine content: Muhammad's grandfather, Abd al-Muttalib, was inspired to discover the Zamzam well while sleeping there; the mother of the Prophet had a vision of her son's greatness; and at the Hijr Muhammed himself was visited by Gabriel before beginning his miraculous Night Journey to Jerusalem.

The Ka'ba, the Zamzan well, the Hijr and the hills of Safa and Marwa are now all enclosed in a vast structure called the Haram al-Sharif, 'The Noble Sanctuary'. Ringed by seven towering minarets and sixty-four gates, this truly monumental building has 160,000 yards of floor space, is capable of holding more than 1.2 million pilgrims at the same time, and is the largest mosque in the Islamic world. The sa'y, or ritual walk between the hills of Safa and Marwa, celebrating the rapid movement of Hagar and her son Ishmael in search of water and being an integral part of the Hajj rituals, is understood to represent man's quest in this world for the life-bestowing bounties of God.

It is interesting to note that prior to the age of the European world explorations, the pilgrimage to Mecca was the single largest expression of human mobility. As the religion of Islam rapidly spread across the world from Indonesia and China in the Far East to Spain, Morocco and West Africa in the west, ever increasing numbers of pilgrims made the long, and often dangerous, journey to Mecca. Some came by boat, braving the Red Sea, the Black Sea, the Mediterranean Sea, the Arabian Sea and the Persian Gulf. Others spent months in camel caravans slowly crossing great tracts of land. The most important pilgrimage caravans were the Egyptian, the Syrian, the Maghribi (the trans-Saharan route), the Sudanese (the sub-Saharan, savanna route), and those from Iraq and Persia.

Forbidden to persons not of the Muslim faith, Mecca came to symbolize for Europeans the secrets and mysteries of the orient, and as such became a magnet for explorers and adventurers. A few of these daring travelers, such as John Lewis Burckhardt from Switzerland (who, in 1812, was also the first European to visit the ruins of Petra) and Sir Richard Burton from Great Britain were able to convincingly impersonate Muslim pilgrims, gain entrance to Mecca, and write wonderfully of the holy city upon their return to Europe. Other explorers were neither so lucky nor divinely guided; many of them disappeared or were caught and sold into slavery. To this day, Mecca remains strictly closed for persons not of the Muslim faith.

Nowadays approximately 2,000,000 people perform the Hajj each year, and this pilgrimage serves as a unifying force in Islam by bringing together followers from diverse countries and language groups. In a certain sense, however, Mecca is said to be visited by all devout and practicing Muslims every day. This is because five times each day (three times in the Shi'a sect) millions upon millions of believers perform their prayers (bowing and prostrating in a specific sequence of movements) in the direction of Mecca. Wherever the place of prayer - in a mosque, a remote place in the wilderness or the interior of a home - Muslims face towards Mecca and are united to the Ka'ba by an invisible line of direction called the qibla.

Readers interested in more detailed information about Mecca and the great Muslim pilgrimage will enjoy the excellent writings of Michael Wolfe and F.E. Peters, listed in the bibliography. The two other most important sacred sites for Muslims are the  Prophets Mosque in Medina  and the  Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem .

Additional notes on Mecca

On the walls of ordinary houses all over Egypt, one can still see colorful two-dimensional mementos of the sacred journey to Mecca. A lively tradition of domestic mural painting has preserved a formulaic combination of inscriptions and images of the Ka'ba and of the Prophet's mosque. Images usually show the various modes of travel to the holy places, typically including planes, trains, ships, camels, and often depict the pilgrim on a prayer carpet. These murals serve a protective purpose in addition to certifying publicly and proudly that the house's inhabitants are due the special status and prestige accorded to those who have accomplished the hajj and received the honorific title of hajji . It is especially significant that family and friends of the pilgrim execute the paintings while the travelers are away, so that the dwelling undergoes its ritual transformation even as its inhabitants do.

Seven Doors to Islam: Spirituality and the Religious Life of Muslims , by John Renard

Folklore notes on Adam

Adam was formed by god out of a handful of dust taken, according to tradition, from the Holy Rock of Sakhrah in Beyt el Maddas. When god formed Adam He left the figure lying lifeless for forty days, some say forty years, while notice was given to the Angels and the Jinn to be ready to worship him as soon as god put breath into his nostrils. At first Adam was male and female in one body, man on one side and female on the other. In due time the female part separated from the male and became a complete woman. Adam and the woman mated but they were not happy as the female refused to submit to Adam, saying that as they were made from the same dust, he had no right to order her about. So she was turned out of Paradise and, consorting with Iblis (Satan), became the mother of devils. She is called El-Karineh by the Arabs, both Christian and Muslim, and Lilith by the Jews (La Brusha by the Sephardim Jews). She is the deadly enemy of all women, especially those who have recently become mothers. When El-Karineh was driven out of Paradise, god created Eve out of one of Adam's ribs, which had been extracted while he slept. Adam and Eve were happy together until Satan succeeded in getting back into Paradise concealed in a serpent's fangs. Once there, Satan persuaded Eve to eat of the forbidden fruit. Adam, having been persuaded by his wife to share her offense, was, as a punishment, cast out of Paradise together with Eve, Satan and the Serpent. All four of them fell to the earth, each coming to a different place: Adam at Serendib or Ceylon; Eve at Jiddah; Satan at Akabah; and the Serpent at Isfahan in Persia. Two hundred years passed before Adam and Eve met once more at Jebel Arafat, the mountain of Recognition, near Mecca. During these two hundred years, Eve had borne offspring of the seeds of devils and Adam had many children by female Jinns.

Additional notes on Pilgrimage and Sacred sites in Islam

The worship of saints or even of the Prophet Muhammad himself is blasphemy according to Islamic orthodoxy. When Muhammad died, he was buried in the house of his wife Aisha and it was forbidden to visit his corpse. In accordance with his teachings, no special treatment was given to the burial places of the four rightly guided Caliphs or the Umayyads or early Abbasids, and no special buildings of any importance were erected over any of their graves.

After the ninth century the veneration of tombs of pious men became popular, especially in eastern Iran, and the memorial tomb with religious or secular connotations assumed a leading place among the types of monumental buildings in Islamic architecture. Clearly the urge to build tombs owed nothing to Islamic dogma but rested on deep-seated popular belief.

The grave of a saint (awliya) is a point of psychic contact with the saint for the tomb is conceived as the dwelling place of the saint. These shrines, in different parts of the Islamic world may be called mashhad, maqam, ziyarat (Morocco), imamzada (Iran), mazar (Central Asia) and qabiristan (India) and they may be compared in function to the Christian martyrium.

Apart from the altruism involved in building a mosque, anyone who plans to include his tomb within the area of the mosque expects that this action will ensure the maintenance of his tomb, as it is integral to the architecture of the mosque, and also that his burial remains will benefit supernaturally from the prayers of the users of the mosque and also by the baraka that is generated every time the Koran is recited.

The concept of the living saint is extremely important in Islam. Pilgrims visit the shrine of a saint to receive his baraka and seek his intercession, shafa'a. .. On leaving a shrine, a pilgrim is careful not to turn his or her back on the cenotaph of the saint.

A coffin is optional, but a vault, no matter how simple, is indespensible, for the fact that the body must be able to sit up and reply to the Angels of the Grave, known as Munkir and Nakir, who question it on the first night after burial. ..Bodies are buried in the recumbent posture at right angles to the qibla (the direction of prayer towards Mecca) in such a way that they would face Mecca if turned on their side. This way the believer has the same physical relationship with Mecca in both life and death.

Also consult:

Non-Hajj Pilgrimage in Islam: A Neglected Dimension of Religious Circulation ; Bhardwaj, Surinder M.; Journal of Cultural Geography, vol. 17:2, Spring/Summer 1998

Sufism: Its Saints and Shrines: An Introduction to the Study of Sufism with Special Reference to India ; Subhan, John A.; Samuel Weiser Publisher; New York; 1970

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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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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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Why Are Only Muslims Allowed to Visit the Holy City of Mecca?

Mecca and Non-Muslim Visitors

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• Hajj and Eid Al Adha
• Important Principles
• Prayer Salat
• Prophets of Islam
• Ramadan and Eid Al Fitr
• M.Ed., Loyola University–Maryland
• B.S., Child Development, Oregon State University

Mecca is a city of terrific importance in Islamic tradition. It is a center of pilgrimage and prayer  -- a sacred place where Muslims are free from the distractions of daily life. Only Muslims are allowed to visit the holy city of Mecca and enter its inner sanctum, the birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad and Islam. As the holiest city in the Islamic faith, every Muslim who is of sound health and financially able is required to make the pilgrimage -- or Hajj (one of the Pillars of Islam) -- to Mecca at least once in their lifetime in order to show honor, obedience, and respect to Allah.

Where Is Mecca?

Mecca -- home to the Kaaba, Islam's holiest site, otherwise known as the House of God (Allah) -- is located in a narrow valley in the Hijaz region (so-called because of the geography of its "hijaz," or "backbone," the Sarat Mountains, which consists of volcanic peaks and deep depressions) of Saudi Arabia, about 40 miles inland from the Red Sea coast. Once an oasis and caravan trade route, ancient Mecca linked the Mediterranean with South Asia, East Africa, and South Arabia.

Mecca and the Quran

Non-Muslim visitors are banned in the Quran: "Oh you who believe! Truly the idolaters are unclean; so let them not, after this year, approach the Sacred Mosque. ..." (9:28). This verse specifically refers to the Grand Mosque in Mecca. There are some Islamic scholars who would permit exceptions to this general rule, for trade purposes or for people who are under treaty permission.

Restrictions to Mecca

There is some debate about the exact area and borders of the restricted areas -- several miles around the holy sites are considered haram (restricted) to non-Muslims. Nevertheless, the government of Saudi Arabia -- which controls access to the holy sites -- has decided upon a strict ban to Mecca in its entirety. Restricting access to Mecca is intended to provide a place of peace and refuge for Muslim believers and preserve the sanctity of the holy city. At this time, millions of Muslims visit Mecca each year, and additional tourist traffic would simply add to the congestion and detract from the spirituality of the pilgrimage visit.

• The Stages of Hajj, the Islamic Pilgrimage to Mecca (Makkah)
• The Architecture and History of the Kaaba
• What happens after one performs Hajj?
• Why Is the City of Jerusalem Important in Islam?
• Madinah City Guide
• Biography of the Prophet Muhammad's Later Life
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• Are Muslims Allowed to Get Tattoos?
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• Is Smoking Allowed in Islam?
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• Authorized U.S. Travel Agents for Hajj and Umrah Trips
• Islamic Festival Eid al-Adha
• Lesson Plans for Eid al Adha, an Islamic Celebration
• Ihram Clothing for Hajj--the Muslim Pilgrimage to Makkah (Mecca)

The Meaning of Mecca, Islam’s Holiest City

• Read Later  

Mecca (also spelled as Makkah) is regarded as the holiest city in Islam. Apart from the fact that Mecca was the birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad, it is also the city where Islam’s holiest place of worship, the Great Mosque (more commonly known as al-Masjid al-Haram) is located. In addition, it is in the direction of Mecca that Muslims face when they perform their daily prayers. Furthermore, one of the Five Pillars of Islam, the Hajj, or Pilgrimage, involves an extended visit to the city.

Where is Mecca?

Mecca is located in the western part of the Arabian Peninsula, in what is today the Makkah region of Saudi Arabia. The sacred city is historically part of the Hejaz, which stretches along the Arabian Peninsula’s Red Sea coast from Jordan in the north to the Asir region in the south. Mecca is situated 73 km (45 mi.) inland from Jeddah, the commercial hub of Saudi Arabia.

The city sits in the Wadi Ibrahim (Valley of Abraham), and is surrounded by the Sirat Mountains. There are four passes through the mountains that grant access to the holy city.

Panoramic View of Mecca, Mecca, Saudi Arabia, 1845. From the Nasser D. Khalili Collection of Hajj and the Arts of Pilgrimage. (Khalili Foundation/ CC BY SA 4.0 )

Mecca is most closely associated with the Islamic faith. Nevertheless, the city was already a significant religious center and key spot for trading even before the founding of Islam. This is due to the fact that Mecca was an oasis on the trade route that linked the Mediterranean world with Southern Arabia, East Africa, and the Indian subcontinent.

Due to Mecca’s strategic geographical location, it was developed during the Roman and Byzantine periods. It is possible that Mecca was also known to the peoples of the Hellenistic period. In Ptolemy’s Geography , a city in the interior of the Arabian Peninsula called Macoraba is mentioned. Macoraba has been traditionally identified with Mecca, though some modern scholars have cast doubts on this identification.

The Earliest History of Mecca

Still, ancient writings referring to Mecca seems to be scarce. Instead, the main source of information for this part of the city’s history comes from later Islamic and Arabic sources. Islamic tradition, for example, traces the history of Mecca all the way back to the beginning of time .

It is believed that when Adam and Eve were thrown out of Paradise, they were separated. Adam landed on the island of Sri Lanka, while Eve found herself in the area that is now Jeddah. After wandering the earth on their own for a period of time, Adam and Eve were reunited by God on Mount Arafat, to the east of Mecca. Arabic sources also state that Adam was buried in Mecca. Eve, on the other hand, was buried in nearby Jeddah.

The next appearance of Mecca in Islamic tradition is in the story of the Great Flood. It is said that during the flood, Noah’s ark came to Mecca, and passed around the disinterred body of Adam seven times. According to the Quran , Abraham and Ishmael (Abraham’s son by Hagar) were responsible for building (or rebuilding) the Kaaba in Mecca (more about the Ka’aba later in this article). The city is also associated with Abraham by the belief that it was there that Hagar nursed Ishmael back to health with the waters of the Well of Zamzam.

The Arabian Peninsula Before Islam

Muslims refer to the period on the Arabian Peninsula before the arrival of Islam as Jahiliyya , which may be translated to mean ‘Age of Ignorance’. The term Jahiliyya is normally used pejoratively to refer to the pre-Islamic period in the Arabian Peninsula. The Jahiliyya period is important for Muslims, as it is serves to highlight the change brought about by Islam to the Arab way of life.

Some features of the Jahiliyya period include: the worship of idols, tribalism, and the practice of female infanticide. In short, the Jahiliyya period was thought to have been a dark age. Interestingly, the term Jahiliyya is considered to be positive with regards to Arabic literature, as pre-Islamic Arabic poetry is esteemed by Muslims.

"Bayad plays the oud to the lady", Arabic manuscript for ‘Qissat Bayad wa Reyad’ tale (late 12th century). ( Public Domain )

Mecca and the Birth of Islam

The birth of Islam is normally portrayed as a radical break from the Jahiliyya period. The story of Islam began in Mecca in 570 AD. According to tradition, this was the year that the Prophet Muhammad was born.

For the first 40 years of his life, Muhammad lived as an ordinary man. Muhammad’s father is said to have died before he was born, while his mother died when he was six years old. The future prophet was raised by his paternal grandfather until the latter’s death two years later.

Finally, he came into the care of his uncle, Abu Talib, who had become the new head of the Hashim clan. According to one story, while accompanying his uncle on a trading journey to Syria, Muhammad was recognized as a future prophet by a Christian monk. At the age of 25, Muhammad married a wealthy woman named Khadijah, who was 40 years old. Khadijah had employed Muhammad to oversee the transportation of her goods to Syria, and was so impressed by him, that she offered to marry him.

Every once in a while, Muhammad would seclude himself in a cave on one of the mountains near Mecca. One night in his fortieth year, as Muhammad was meditating in the cave, the angel Jibril (Gabriel) appeared to him, and gave him his first revelation. The angel taught him the opening verses of Surah 96 of the Quran : “Recite in the name of your Lord who creates, / creates man from a clot! / Recite for your Lord is most generous…”

The encounter with the angel left Muhammad feeling disturbed, but he was reassured by Khadijah and her cousin, Waraqah ibn Nawfal (a Christian who confirmed Muhammad’s prophethood). Muhammad continued receiving revelations from Jibril, but for the next three years, limited himself to speaking about them in private.

The angel Jibrîl stands before Muhammad and instructs him on the call to prayer. ( Public Domain )

The Prophet Muhammad at Mecca

Eventually, Muhammad was commanded by God to preach publicly. Initially, the Meccans did not oppose Muhammad. When the prophet began proclaiming that there is no god but Allah , however, he began to face opposition from the Quraysh of Mecca.

This is due to the fact that the monotheism preached by Muhammad was perceived as an attack on the religious beliefs and practices of the Quraysh. Moreover, the Quraysh feared that the economy of the city would be affected if they accepted Muhammad’s message and became monotheists because pagan pilgrims would stop coming to the city.

Although Muhammad faced opposition from the majority of the Meccans, he received protection from his clan, and was therefore able to stay in the city. In 619 AD, however, his uncle, Abu Talib, died, and leadership of the clan passed to another of the prophet’s uncles, Abu Lahab.

Abu Lahab opposed Muhammad, so he withdrew the clan’s protection of the prophet. This meant that Muhammad was no longer safe in Mecca. In 622 AD, Muhammad and his followers left Mecca for Medina, a journey which is referred to as the Hijrah . 622 AD is also the year in which the Islamic calendar begins. In 630 AD, the Muslims were strong enough to march an army on Mecca. The Meccans submitted, and an amnesty was declared by the prophet.

The Holy City of Mecca

Interestingly, despite being the holiest city in Islam, Mecca never became the capital of any Islamic state. The immediate successors of Muhammad, the Rashidun caliphs, for instance, ruled from Medina (with the exception of the fourth caliph, Ali, who moved the capital to Kufa). The Umayyads who followed ruled from Damascus, while their successors, the Abbasids, were based in Baghdad. The latter moved to Cairo after the Mongols invaded.

Lastly, the Ottoman caliphs ruled from Constantinople. Nevertheless, Islamic rulers continued to contribute to the upkeep of the holy city, and served as its defenders. The title ‘Protector of the Two Holy Cities’ (referring to Mecca and Medina), for instance, has been used by various Muslim rulers in history.

As a holy city, Mecca retained its significance in the Muslim faith. The most obvious sign of this is the fact that when Muslims perform their daily prayers, they do so in the direction of Mecca. Another clear sign of Mecca’s religious significance is the role it plays in the Hajj . This is the last of Islam’s Five Pillars, which states that every Muslim who is physically and financially able to do so should make the pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in their lifetime.

The Hajj is an annual pilgrimage that takes place during the during the Dhu al-Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic year. More precisely, it begins on the 7th day of that month, and ends on the 12th day. One of the most important rituals of the Hajj is the tawaf , which is the circumambulation of the pilgrims around the Ka’aba seven times in an anti-clockwise direction. The Ka’aba is a small shrine located near the center of the al-Masjid al-Haram, and is considered by Muslims to be the most sacred spot on earth.

The Ka’aba, Mecca. ( ETC )

Miracles at Mecca

According to Islamic belief, Abraham was instructed by God to bring Hagar and their son, Ishmael, to Arabia from Palestine to protect them from the jealousy of Sarah. Abraham brought the two of them to the site of Mecca, and left them there, as instructed by God. Although he gave them some supplies of food and water before leaving, it ran out.

Soon, Hagar and Ishmael were suffering from hunger and thirst. In desperation, the mother ran up and down two hills, Safa and Marwa, to see if she could spot any help in the distance. Finally, Hagar collapsed beside her son out of exhaustion, and prayed to God for help. At that moment, Ishmael struck his foot on the ground, and water gushed out, and thus the two were saved. This is said to be the origin of the Well of Zamzam. The Spring of Zamzam, from which the well draws its waters, is believed to be a tributary of the Waters of Paradise.

Historic Zamzam well mouthpiece. The description reads: (line 1) The mouthpiece of the well of Zamzam. (line 2) The pulley for lifting Zamzam water dating back to the end of the fourteenth century of Hijrah. (line 3) The brass bucket which was used to be in the well of Zamzam dating back to 1299 Hijrah. (Mohammad Bahareth/ CC BY SA 2.0 )

The miracle not only saved Hagar and Ishmael, but also allowed them to make a living, as they were able to trade their water with passing nomads for food and supplies. Sometime later, Abraham returned to check on Hagar and Ishmael, and was commanded by God to build the Ka’aba. According to one interpretation of the verse, Abraham was told to rebuild the shrine.

This may mean that there was an older shrine, one said to have been erected by Adam, the foundations of which were left by the time of Abraham. As time went by, the people of Mecca became polytheists, and idols were placed in the Ka’aba. When the Meccans surrendered to Muhammad in 630 AD, the Ka’aba was cleansed of its idols.

• The Life of the Prophet Muhammad: Spreading Islam from Mecca to Medina
• The Kaaba Black Stone: A Holy Stone from Outer Space?
• One of the Oldest Islamic Holy Sites in the World Discovered in Israel

The Meaning of the Ka’aba Black Stone at Mecca

In the eastern corner of the Ka’aba is the Black Stone. As part of the tawaf, pilgrims touch and kiss this sacred object. The Black Stone is believed to date to the time of Adam and Eve. According to Islamic belief, the stone was given to Adam when he was cast out of Paradise so that he could obtain forgiveness for his sins.

The Black Stone is said to have been concealed during the Great Flood, but was restored to Abraham when he was building / re-building the Ka’aba. Legend has it that the stone was originally white in color, but turned black as a result of absorbing the sins of the countless pilgrims who have touched and kissed it.

Mecca’s status as the holiest city in Islam has been maintained from the faith’s beginning till this day. In the almost 1400 years since Islam was established, Mecca has seen its fair share of ups and downs. Ownership of the sacred city, for instance, has switched hands many times in its long history.

Wide panoramic view on entire Masjid Al Haram mosque from Clock Tower Abraj Al Bait, Mecca, Saudi Arabia. ( Andrey Markelov /Adobe Stock)

In 1269, for example, Mecca came under the control of the Mamluks , while in 1517, the city fell into the hands of the Ottomans. In 1925, Mecca was captured by the Saudis, and it has remained a part of their kingdom since then. For the faithful, however, such political changes are of secondary importance, as the Hajj has been performed over the centuries, regardless of who is in charge of the city.

Top Image: Mecca, Saudi Arabia. Source: Haris Gunawan / Adobe Stock

By Wu Mingren

Glubb, J. B. & Abdo, A. S., 2019. Mecca. [Online] Available at: https://www.britannica.com/place/Mecca

New World Encyclopedia, 2020. Mecca. [Online] Available at: https://www.newworldencyclopedia.org/entry/Mecca

Razwy, S. A. A., 2020. Arabia before Islam. [Online] Available at: https://www.al-islam.org/restatement-history-islam-and-muslims-sayyid-ali-ashgar-razwy/arabia-islam

Sacred Land Film Project, 2020. Mecca. [Online] Available at: https://sacredland.org/mecca-saudi-arabia/#:~:text=Mecca%E2%80%94officially%20%E2%80%9CMakkah%E2%80%9D%E2%80%94,of%20Dhu'l%2DHijja .

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The BBC, 2011. Prophet Muhammad (570-632). [Online] Available at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/religions/islam/history/muhammad_1.shtml

The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica, 2017. Hejaz. [Online] Available at: https://www.britannica.com/place/Hejaz

The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica, 2019. Kaaba. [Online] Available at: https://www.britannica.com/topic/Kaaba-shrine-Mecca-Saudi-Arabia

The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica, 2020. Hajj. [Online] Available at: https://www.britannica.com/topic/hajj

The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica, 2020. Jāhiliyyah. [Online] Available at: https://www.britannica.com/topic/jahiliyah

www.oxfordislamicstudies.com , 2020. Jahiliyyah. [Online] Available at: http://www.oxfordislamicstudies.com/article/opr/t125/e1157

And now social media plays a role, allowing people to watch the clerics online as if they were really there and there is even an IT office nearby related to the mosque that offers religious guidance in all aspects of life that people ask. Only Muslims are allowed into the city.

Wu Mingren (‘Dhwty’) has a Bachelor of Arts in Ancient History and Archaeology. Although his primary interest is in the ancient civilizations of the Near East, he is also interested in other geographical regions, as well as other time periods.... Read More

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How to visit Mecca?

How to visit mecca why travel to mecca.

For Islam, Mecca is the main place of all its religious thought. According to their traditions, in this city was born prophet Muhammad, so every year is is visited by millions of Islamists coming from different parts of the world. In this city, there is a good amount of important religious monuments for this religion. One of the most important is mosque Masjid al-Haram, in this place, according to Islamists, es el punto en el cual el cielo se toca con la tierra. This temple as a cube-shape construction. In this article, apart from making reference to some important sport regarding the meaning and importance of Mecca, we will also talk about  how to visit Mecca in case of not being a believer .

For the followers of this religion, Mecca is a place of great importance, so every Islamist has to visit it at least once in his lifetime and the majority does it during the Hajj. Owing to the fact that this religion is extremely hermetic, it is very difficult for the non followers of it to enter these pilgrimage places. One of the best ways of how visiting Mecca if you are not a believer , is to apply for a special visit visa. This application has to be done with a representative or believer, who will be in charge of you during your stay. This representative has to be Saudi Arabian or an expatriate and the application for this document will be done from inside the city. In case of the visa being approved, the required documents will be sent to the Saudi Arabia Embassy in your country.

As you may have seen, visiting this holy city is not easy at all and much worse if you are a woman since this religion is extremely strict regarding women’s the dress code and behaviour. In case of going, they will have to remin in company of their representative in front of the community. However, in order not to leave you in suspense about the different monuments there, we will talk about them.

As we saw before, in Mecca we can find Masjid al-Haram mosque. This is the biggest mosque in the world, and it was built in 1570 and in its center it is Kaaba. Also known as ‘The House of God’, the Kaaba is a cube-shape building in which a meteorite piece wrapped in black fabric and embroidered with gold threads is kept. This is the central point of their religion since it is said it was built by Abraham and his son Ishmael and it is the place towards which all muslims turn and look at to pray five times a day. As a curious fact about Kaaba, when muslims to to this mosque they have to walk towards the left and complete seven turns around it and try to touch a corner of this black stone. This ritual is known as the Tawaf and it is done to show unity in front of the unique God.

So now you know  how to visit Mecca and the most important places for the believers of this religion. In case of not being a believer and having the unique chance of visiting this emblematic city, you have to show great respect towards the customs and traditions of these people when visiting this pilgrimate places since, as you may have seen, everything you do is going to be supervised by your representative in front of that community and it is important to show yourself eager to learn everything they can teach you.

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Can you visit Mecca in Saudi Arabia as a tourist?

Mecca, also known as Makkah, located in western Saudi Arabia, is the holiest city in Islam​.

More than three million Muslims visit this city during the month of Dhul-Hijjah every year for the Hajj pilgrimage, and many others also make smaller pilgrimages or perform Umrah during other times of the year.

While Mecca is open to tourists, it's important to know that it's limited to Muslim travelers only , and there are other rules and restrictions you must know about before you go. Let's dive in.

Can I travel to Mecca as a tourist?

The simple answer is no, unless you're Muslim .

Non-Muslims are strictly prohibited from entering the holy city of Mecca and certain parts of Medina. Signs indicating these boundaries are clearly signposted, and it's crucial to respect these restrictions.

Rules and restrictions for visiting Mecca as a Muslim tourist

Embarking on a pilgrimage to Mecca, the heart of the Islamic world, is a profoundly spiritual journey that every Muslim aspires to undertake at least once in their lifetime.

Here are the essential rules and restrictions for visiting Mecca as a Muslim tourist , ensuring your spiritual journey is both fulfilling and in complete harmony with the sacred regulations of this holy city:

Pilgrimage eligibility: The pilgrimage to Mecca, known as Hajj, is obligatory for all adult Muslims who are physically and financially capable of undertaking the journey. Additionally, the Umrah, a smaller pilgrimage, can be performed at any time of the year but is not obligatory.

Visa requirements: Pilgrims must obtain a specific visa for Hajj or Umrah from Saudi Arabian embassies or consulates. These visas are issued by Islamic lunar months, with Hajj visas available only during particular periods. Our platform simplifies this process, offering updated information and assistance with your visa application.

Respect for local customs and dress code: Visitors to Mecca are expected to adhere to Islamic principles of conduct and dress modestly. For men, this includes wearing the Ihram during the Hajj, while women should wear clothes that cover the body appropriately and avoid perfume and makeup during the rituals.

Health requirements: Pilgrims must meet certain health criteria to protect themselves and others during their journey. This includes vaccinations, particularly for meningitis, and the Saudi government may require COVID-19 vaccinations. Check the latest info on the government website .

Environmental awareness: The Saudi authorities encourage pilgrims to maintain cleanliness and environmental awareness throughout their journey. Littering or damaging the natural and urban environment of the sacred sites is strictly prohibited.

Safety and security: Given the large crowds, especially during Hajj, it's essential to follow all safety guidelines provided by the authorities. This includes staying with your group, following the designated ritual routes, and securing personal belongings.

Women: Women can register for Hajj without a male guardian if they go in a group with other women.

Photographs: You are not allowed to take photos (still or video, even with your phone) at the Holy Mosque in Mecca or the Prophet's Mosque in Medina. If you break this rule, your device may be taken away.

There may be other rules that you must adhere to, so make sure to stay updated and informed throughout the process of traveling to Mecca.

How does the Saudi government check if you're Muslim to visit Mecca?

Saudi Arabia's government restricts entry to Mecca to Muslims only . Proof of your religious beliefs will be checked upon entry, and anyone not showing proof of being Muslim will be denied access.

This check can include:

• You may be asked to present documentation from an imam (Muslim religious leader)
• You may be asked to submit your documentation from your imam upon booking your trip (especially important if you're a converted Muslim traveler)
• You may be asked to say the Shahada and be asked about your knowledge of Islam
• Some countries offer ID cards that include the holder's religion, which is accepted as proof

What happens when non-Muslims try to enter Mecca?

While it's not only incredibly disrespectful, it's also not a good idea as you're trespassing and breaking Saudi Arabian laws.

The penalty for non-Muslims attempting to enter is deportation from the country and a possible fine​​. This rule applies whether you're trying to enter the city by plane, car, bus, or train​​.

Do you need a visa to visit Mecca in Saudi Arabia?

The visa requirements depend on your nationality , even if you can proof you're Muslim. The various visas include:

Saudi Arabia Tourist eVisa : This electronic visa allows Muslim travelers from certain nationalities to visit the country for their Umrah pilgrimage. However, some restrictions apply, such as being unable to take holy water home.

Saudi Arabia Tourist Visa (paper visa): If you're not eligible for the eVisa, you must apply for a traditional Tourist Visa from the nearest Saudi Embassy or Consulate .

Saudi Arabia Umrah Visa : This is a special visa for Umrah pilgrims. While it involves more required documents, you have more freedom within the Umrah privileges.

Saudi Arabia Hajj Visa: This is a special visa for Hajj pilgrims. A trip and accompanying visa must be booked through a government-approved travel agency .

Hajj visas are assigned to countries on a quota basis according to the number of Muslims that live there. In recent years, additional restrictions have been placed on those who have previously been to Mecca to avoid overcrowding.

• [Saudi Arabia Electronic Visa Waiver]: At the time of writing, this visa waiver was only available to travelers from the United Kingdom, and allows Muslims to perform Umrah.

More questions about traveling to Mecca in Saudi Arabia?

If you want to learn more about the Saudi Arabia visas or have questions about the application process, we’re here to help. Our dedicated online team of customer service agents is available via online chat to assist with any questions, or you can contact us on WhatsApp .

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Saudi Arabia Visa status: Track your application

How to get the Saudi Arabia eVisa or visa waiver as a UK citizen

Saudi Arabia Tourist Visa for Pakistani Citizens: Apply for your visa now

• iVisa is NOT affiliated with any government agency. This site does not provide legal advice and we are not a law firm. None of our customer service representatives are lawyers and they also do not provide legal advice. We are a private, internet-based travel and immigration consultancy provider dedicated to helping individuals travel around the world. You may apply by yourself directly on the various government websites. The source of information: https://www.saudiembassy.net/visa-types

The Ohio River’s journey from transportation superhighway to recreation mecca in West Virginia

WEST VIRGINIA (WTRF) – The Ohio River plays a vital role in West Virginia’s economy, tourism and its borders.

Most of the western boundary of West Virginia is formed by the Ohio River, and this includes the Mountain State’s border with Ohio.

The Ohio River begins in Pittsburgh at the confluence of the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers.

The Ohio River was a transportation superhighway in past centuries and was filled with barges hauling coal and materials from mines and factories.

Although mining and manufacturing have significantly slowed since the turn of the 21st century, the river stays active with some barges and even recreational boats. Many communities host regattas, and sternwheelers filled with tourists can be seen docking at Heritage Port in the Friendly City of Wheeling.

The Ohio River has evolved over time from an industrial pathway to a recreational hub enjoyed by millions of residents and visitors.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTRF.