Best Places to Visit in Makkah During Umrah and Things to Do

When you visit Makkah, especially during Umrah, it’s important to know about the best places to visit. Makkah is a holy city with many sacred sites that every Muslim dreams of seeing.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best places to visit in Makkah, what you can do there, and some helpful tips to make your trip smooth and memorable.

Top Holy Places to Visit in Makkah

One of the most important places to visit in Makkah is the Masjid al-Haram. This is the largest mosque in the world and the place where the Kaaba is located. Muslims from all over the world come here to perform Umrah and Hajj. The feeling of being near the Kaaba is something every Muslim cherishes.

• Distance from Masjid al-Haram to Mina: Approximately 7 km (4.3 miles).

Another important site is Mina. It is a valley located just outside Makkah where pilgrims spend the night during Hajj. It’s also where the symbolic stoning of the devil takes place, a very significant part of the pilgrimage.

• Distance from Mina to Mount Arafat: Approximately 13.5 km (8.4 miles).

Mount Arafat is another must-visit place. This is where Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) gave his last sermon. Pilgrims gather here on the 9th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, known as the Day of Arafah, which is the most important day of Hajj.

• Distance from Mount Arafat to Muzdalifah: Approximately 8 km (5 miles).

Muzdalifah is another place you should visit. After spending time in Mina, pilgrims travel to Muzdalifah to collect pebbles for the stoning ritual and to spend the night under the open sky.

• Distance from Muzdalifah to Masjid al-Haram: Approximately 9 km (5.6 miles).

Best Hotels in Makkah with Haram View

Choosing a good hotel in Makkah is important, especially if you want to stay close to the Haram and have a beautiful view of it. Here are some of the best hotels:

• Fairmont Makkah Clock Royal Tower: This hotel is very close to the Haram and offers amazing views of the Kaaba. It’s a luxurious hotel with everything you need for a comfortable stay.
• Distance from Fairmont Makkah Clock Royal Tower to Masjid al-Haram: Approximately 300 meters (0.2 miles).
• Raffles Makkah Palace: This is another luxury hotel with large, comfortable rooms and excellent service. The view of the Haram from here is breathtaking.
• Distance from Raffles Makkah Palace to Masjid al-Haram: Approximately 200 meters (0.12 miles).
• Hilton Suites Makkah: A great hotel with easy access to the Haram. It’s perfect for those who want both comfort and convenience.
• Distance from Hilton Suites Makkah to Masjid al-Haram: Approximately 450 meters (0.28 miles).

If you’re looking for something more budget-friendly, consider:

• Swissôtel Makkah: A modern hotel with good services and beautiful views, but at a more affordable price.
• Distance from Swissôtel Makkah to Masjid al-Haram: Approximately 500 meters (0.31 miles).
• Al Marwa Rayhaan by Rotana: This hotel is clean, comfortable, and offers partial views of the Haram. It’s great for those on a budget.
• Distance from Al Marwa Rayhaan by Rotana to Masjid al-Haram: Approximately 450 meters (0.28 miles).
• Pullman ZamZam Makkah: This hotel offers both suites and rooms with direct views of the Kaaba, making it a budget-friendly option with a fantastic location.
• Distance from Pullman ZamZam Makkah to Masjid al-Haram: Approximately 100 meters (0.06 miles).

Safety Tips for Tourists Visiting Makkah

Makkah is a very safe city, but it’s still important to be careful and follow some basic safety tips:

• Stay Hydrated: Makkah can get very hot, so drink plenty of water and stay out of the sun as much as possible.
• Respect Local Customs: Makkah is a very holy city, so make sure you dress modestly and follow the local customs.
• Keep Your Belongings Safe: Even though Makkah is safe, it’s a good idea to keep your valuables close and be careful in crowded places.
• Use Reliable Transportation: Make sure you use trusted taxi services or public transportation to get around the city.

Planning Your Makkah Trip: Cost and Logistics

Planning your trip to Makkah includes understanding the costs and logistics:

• Accommodation: Hotels in Makkah can range from $50 to $500 per night, depending on where you stay.
• Flights: Airfare can vary, so it’s good to book early. Prices usually range from $600 to $1,200 for a round-trip.
• Food: Depending on where you eat, you can expect to spend around $10 to $50 per day on food.
• Transportation: You might spend $20 to $50 per day getting around the city.

When packing, don’t forget your passport, visa, and any necessary medications. It’s also wise to carry light, comfortable clothing and anything you might need for the heat.

Ziyarat Places in Makkah and Madinah

Ziyarat means visiting holy places, and Makkah and Madinah have many such sites.

Ziyarat in Makkah

In Makkah, you can visit:

• Ghar Hira (Hira Cave): This is where Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) received the first revelation of the Quran.
• Distance from Ghar Hira to Masjid al-Haram: Approximately 5 km (3.1 miles).
• Jabal Thawr (Thawr Mountain): This is where the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his companion Abu Bakr hid during their migration to Madinah.
• Distance from Jabal Thawr to Masjid al-Haram: Approximately 7 km (4.3 miles).
• Jannat al-Mu’alla: An ancient cemetery where many of the Prophet’s relatives and companions are buried.
• Distance from Jannat al-Mu’alla to Masjid al-Haram: Approximately 1.5 km (0.93 miles).

Ziyarat in Madinah

In Madinah, make sure to visit:

• Al-Masjid an-Nabawi (The Prophet’s Mosque): The second holiest site in Islam where Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is buried.
• Distance from Al-Masjid an-Nabawi to Quba Mosque: Approximately 6 km (3.7 miles).
• Quba Mosque: The first mosque ever built in Islam.
• Distance from Quba Mosque to Uhud Mountain: Approximately 10 km (6.2 miles).
• Uhud Mountain: The site of the Battle of Uhud, an important event in Islamic history.
• Distance from Uhud Mountain to Qiblatain Mosque: Approximately 3.5 km (2.2 miles).
• Qiblatain Mosque: This is where the Qiblah (direction of prayer) was changed from Jerusalem to Makkah.
• Distance from Qiblatain Mosque to Al-Masjid an-Nabawi: Approximately 5 km (3.1 miles).

Final Thoughts: Making the Most of Your Makkah Visit

Visiting Makkah is a unique and special experience. To make the most of your trip, remember to:

• Focus on the Spiritual Journey: Makkah is the heart of Islam, so use this time to deepen your connection with Allah.
• Respect the City’s Sanctity: Makkah is a very holy place, so make sure you act respectfully.
• Take Care of Your Health: Stay hydrated, rest well, and avoid the sun.
• Plan Ahead: Proper planning will make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.
• Cherish the Memories: Your visit to Makkah will be something you remember for the rest of your life, so take photos and keep a journal to remember it all.

By following these tips and visiting the best places in Makkah, you’ll have a fulfilling and memorable trip.