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Makkah

Saudi Arabia, Middle East

Makkah, the holiest city in Islam, is renowned for the Kaaba located in the Masjid al-Haram, drawing millions of pilgrims for Hajj and Umrah. Beyond its spiritual significance, Makkah boasts rich history, cultural heritage, and stunning architecture, epitomized by the King's Abdulaziz Historical Center. Visitors can also explore local markets and enjoy traditional cuisine, making it a unique blend of faith, culture, and hospitality.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

King Abdulaziz

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit

10 Best Things to Do in Makkah

1. Perform Umrah pilgrimage

Experience spiritual renewal and devotion at the Kaaba.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

3 hrs

2. Visit the Kaaba

Stand before the sacred black cube, the heart of Islam.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

3. Explore the Abraj Al Bait Towers

See the iconic clock tower and shopping mall complex.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

4. Visit the Cave of Hira

Hike to the sacred cave where Prophet Muhammad received revelations.

Available all year

Adults only

No booking required

2 hrs

5. Shop at Makkah Mall

Enjoy diverse shopping and dining in a modern mall.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

6. Visit Jabal al-Nour

Climb the mountain for stunning views of Makkah.

Available all year

Adults only

No booking required

2 hrs

7. Experience the Zamzam Well

Drink the sacred water believed to have healing properties.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

< 1 hr

8. Attend a Tafseer session

Learn the interpretation of the Quran from experts.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

1 hr

9. Visit Al-Masjid an-Nabawi

Explore the second holiest mosque in Islam in Medina.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

10. Take a guided city tour

Discover Makkah's history and culture with a local guide.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

3 hrs

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10-15%)

Tapwater

Generally safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Medium

LGBTQ+ safety score

-21 (#210 globally)

Cost

Standard

Currency

Saudi Riyal

Majority religion

Muslim

Language

Arabic

(20-50% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Kabsa

Spiced rice with meat and vegetables (National dish)

Mandi

Fragrant rice with marinated meat

Saleeg

Creamy rice dish with chicken or meat

Jareesh

Wheat porridge with meat and spices

Mutabbaq

Stuffed savory pastry, often with meat

Phrases to learn

English

Arabic

Hello

Marhaban

(Mar-ha-ban)

Yes/No

Naam / La

(Nah-am / Lah)

Thank you

Shukran

(Shook-ran)

Excuse me

Afwan

(Ahf-wan)

How much?

Kam?

(Kam)