Mecca, located in western Saudi Arabia, is the holiest city in Islam. It is one of the most important travel destinations in the Islamic world, receiving millions of visitors annually to perform Hajj and Umrah, or to explore its rich history and prominent landmarks that embody the ancient Islamic heritage. In this article, we will discuss the top places to see in Mecca to make your trip full of diverse experiences and beautiful memories.
Places to See in Mecca
Mecca attracts millions of Muslims annually for Hajj and Umrah, and is also a major cultural and commercial center, home to numerous universities and research centers. Here are the top places to see in Mecca:
Masjid Al-Haram
No visit to Mecca is complete without the greatest places to see in Mecca, Masjid Al-Haram. Located in the heart of Mecca, it houses the Holy Kaaba. It is the first house of worship and annually witnesses massive gatherings of millions of Muslims from around the world.
It is famous for its magnificent architecture and spacious courtyards that can accommodate hundreds of thousands of worshippers. Circumambulating the Kaaba is one of the most important rituals performed there. It is also surrounded by many places to visit in Mecca, such as the Well of Zamzam, Maqaam-e-Ibrahim, and the Mas’a (path between Safa and Marwa).
Maqaam-e-Ibrahim
A site inside Masjid Al-Haram where the Prophet Ibrahim, peace be upon him, stood during the construction of the Kaaba. His footprints are preserved inside a glass dome.
Safa and Marwa
Safa and Marwa are two small hills within the Grand Mosque associated with the story of Hajar and her search for water for her son, Ismail. Walking between them is one of the pillars of Hajj and Umrah.
Read More: Best Time to Visit Mecca
Mount Arafat
Mount Arafat is located 20 km from Mecca . It was here that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) delivered his Farewell Sermon, a fundamental pillar of the Hajj.
Jabal Al-Nour
Jabal Al-Nour is among the most important places to visit in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. Located on the outskirts of Mecca, it is known as “Jabal Al-Nour” because it contains Ghar Hira, where the revelation of the Holy Quran was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him). Pilgrims visit it for meditation, as it is one of the holiest places to see in Mecca.
Ghar Thowr
Ghar Thowris one of the places to visit in Makkah during Umrah, as visiting it narrates the details of the Prophet’s migration, which deepens your understanding of the biography of the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace.
Clock Tower
Clock Tower is a complex of skyscrapers that includes the tallest building in Mecca and the Makkah Royal Clock, the largest in the world. The tower also houses a clock museum that showcases the history of clockmaking and the Islamic calendar.
Read More: Best Saudi Arabia Group Tours
Masjid Ayesha
Masjid Ayesha is one of the important miqat points for ihram, located 10 km from Mecca. Pilgrims from within Mecca head there to begin their rituals.
Al-Muallaa Cemetery
Al-Muallaa Cemetery is located to the northeast of the Grand Mosque. It is one of the holiest cemeteries in Islam after Al-Baqi’ Cemetery in Medina. This cemetery houses the remains of several relatives of the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him), including Khadija bint Khuwaylid (may Allah be pleased with her), the Prophet’s wife and the first woman to believe in him. Abd al-Muttalib, the Prophet’s grandfather, and Abu Talib, his uncle, are also buried here.
Factory of Kaaba
Factory of Kaaba is one of the most prominent landmarks that illustrates the meticulous care taken to preserve the Holy Kaaba. The factory was established specifically to produce the Kiswa, which is replaced annually on the Day of Arafah. It is made of pure silk woven with gold threads.
Assalaamu Aleyka Ayyuhan Nabiyyu Museum
Assalaamu Aleyka Ayyuhan Nabiyyu Museum is one of Mecca’s most important tourist attractions for culture lovers. The museum showcases the life of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) from his birth to his death, based on reliable Islamic sources. It houses models, manuscripts, and modern display devices that narrate the details of his life, from his living environment and personal belongings to his miracles and conquests. A visit to the museum offers an opportunity to reflect on various aspects of the Prophet’s biography in an engaging and educational manner.
Read More: Best Museums to Visit in Saudi Arabia
Exhibition of the Two Holy Mosques Architecture
The Two Holy Mosques Exhibition is one of the most prominent places to visit in Makkah for free. The exhibition documents the history of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque. It contains rare examples of Islamic architecture and artifacts such as pulpits, clocks, and ancient Qurans. It also features models illustrating the expansion of the Two Holy Mosques over the ages.
Masjid Al Jinn
Masjid Al Jinn is located near the Al-Ma’la Cemetery. It is associated with the story of the jinn who came to hear the Holy Quran from the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) and their faith in him, as mentioned in Surat Al-Jinn. It is one of the historic mosques visited by visitors to learn about this unique event, which demonstrates the comprehensiveness of Islam.
Read More: Saudi Arabia Adventure Group Tours
Aqaba Mosque
Aqaba Mosque is located on the site where the Pledge of Aqaba was made between the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) and a number of Yathrib’s leaders, paving the way for the Prophet’s migration and the establishment of the Islamic state.
Masjid Al-Jiranah
Masjid Al-Jiranah is located on the road between Mecca and Taif. It is one of the important sites where the Prophet Muhammad entered ihram upon his return from the Battle of Hunayn.
Masjid Al-Khaif
A historic mosque built by Prophet Ibrahim, peace be upon him, and visited by pilgrims during the days of Tashreeq in Mina.
King Fahd Gate
King Fahd Gate is the main gate to the Grand Mosque. It boasts architectural grandeur and beautiful design.
Souk Al-Khalil
Souk Al-Khalil is one of Mecca’s most prominent shopping destinations, a favorite for visitors looking for traditional products.
Read More: Saudi Arabia Family Tours
Ajyad
Ajyad district is located near the Haram and is a favorite destination for shopping and fine dining enthusiasts.
Al Aziziyah
Al Aziziyah is an area that combines mountainous nature with modern cafes, making it an ideal destination for families.
Jabal Omar
Jabal Omar is one of the most popular new neighborhoods. It houses hotels, shopping centers, and entertainment venues such as the Sahaba Exhibition Center.
In conclusion, Makkah remains an unparalleled religious and cultural hub. Whether you’re visiting for Umrah or for a spiritual and cultural retreat, the city offers an unforgettable experience.
In conclusion, the top places to see in Mecca offer a unique spiritual and cultural experience, from religious tours to cultural and historical activities. Whether you’re on a quick visit or planning a longer stay, Mecca offers a complete spiritual and lifestyle experience.
Visit Islamic Tours Saudi Arabia to book your trip to Mecca and enjoy an unforgettable experience that will take you on a spiritual journey through time and space.
People Also Ask
What is the most visited place in Mecca?
The Grand Mosque is the most visited site in Mecca, and indeed in the entire Islamic world.
How many places to visit in Mecca?
Mecca has dozens of places to visit, including religious, historical, and cultural landmarks.
What is special about Mecca?
Mecca is home to Islam’s holiest sites, such as the Grand Mosque, Jabal Al-Nour, and sites related to the Prophet’s biography, making it a spiritually and historically unique city.
What to do in Mecca?
You can perform Umrah, visit Mount Arafat or Al-Taneem Mosque, and discover Mecca’s cultural and heritage tourist attractions.
