Things to Do in Makkah – A Guide by Adila Hajj and Umrah Services
Things to Do in Makkah – A Guide by Adila Hajj and Umrah Services
Makkah is the birthplace of Prophet Muhammad and the place where the Quran was revealed, which makes it a pivotal city in Islam that holds deep significance for all Muslims. It is also home to the Kaaba, to which we perform our daily prayers and do tawaf during Umrah and Hajj. Makkah provides several religious and leisure activities for both pilgrims and tourists. Whether you are visiting Makkah during Umrah or just want to explore the rich culture, this holy city has lots to offer. In this guide, let’s explore the places to visit in Makkah during umrah, understand more about ziyarats in Makkah, and 3-star hotels in Makkah near haram that offer you a comfortable, relaxing and convenient stay.
Places to Visit in Makkah During Umrah
While you are in Makkah during Umrah, you should take some time out to explore the various religious and historical landmarks that the holy city has to offer. Here’s a list of all the places you should visit in Makkah during Umrah:
- Masjid Al-Haram: Your spiritual journey in Makkah begins with Masjid al-Haram also known as the Grand Mosque, it is one of the most sacred and iconic mosques in Islam. It is home to the Kaaba which is a cube-shaped structure around which we perform tawaf, an integral part of our pilgrimage rituals. The masjid is an architectural marvel with its vast size and awe-inspiring design.
- Abraj Al-Bait: Abraj al-bait is a giant skyscraper that is also famously known as the Makkah Clock Tower. With a tremendous height of 601 meters, it is recognized as the world’s third tallest building after Burj Khalifa and Shanghai Tower. Feel awe-struck as you take a look at this iconic clock tower, which is located adjacent to the Grand Mosque. It houses several hotels, shopping complexes and residential apartments in its majestic seven towers. You can also visit the Clock Tower Museum, which features a wide collection of artifacts.
- Mount Arafat: Mount Arafat also known as Jabal-al-Arafat is a monumental site that is located 230 ft above sea level. It is the place where millions of pilgrims stand together to seek forgiveness on Arafat day during Hajj rituals. It is on this hill where Prophet Muhammad delivered his farewell sermon during his final Hajj. You can visit Mount Arafat while in Makkah during Umrah and experience the monumental site to feel closer to Allah.
- Makkah Museum: The Makkah Museum is a cultural and historical center that houses rare artifacts, fascinating collections and displays that showcase the culture and heritage of the holy city. It is a must-visit spot for people who are keen to know more about Makkah’s past and present. You can explore the museum’s various aspects, from pre-Islamic to present-day. One of the museum’s highlights is the section that is dedicated to Hajj. The museum also houses rare manuscripts and copies of the Quran, along with historical maps and documents that shed light on Makkah’s development.
- Makkah Mall: The Makkah mall is located at a walking distance from Masjid al-Haram below the clock tower. It is an ideal spot for people who want to shop for gifts and souvenirs or want to have lunch or dinner in one of the mall’s many fast-food and fine-dining restaurants. You can find endless options for shopping, luxury, entertainment, leisure and food at the mall, giving you the perfect opportunity to relax and enjoy after prayers at Masjid al-Haram.
Understanding Ziyarat in Makkah
Ziyarat refers to the act of paying homage to the holy sites that are an integral part of Islam. During Umrah, ziyarat of the key places in Makkah are crucial to completing all your Umrah rituals. The practice of ziyarat goes beyond the rituals of Umrah and allows the pilgrims to reflect on the religious and historical significance of the landmarks. Both pilgrims and tourists can do ziyarat in Makkah to connect with Allah and understand more about the holy city.
Important Makkah Ziyarat Places
- Jabal Al-Noor: The Jabal al-Noor is also known as the ‘Mountain of Light’, it is an important site where the Cave of Hira is located. This sacred cave is located at the top of the mountain which is 634 meters high and is just 4 kilometers away from the holy Kaaba. The cave is famous as it was the place where Prophet Muhammad received the first revelation of the holy Quran. The prophet often visited this cave for solitude and deep reflection.
- Jannatul Mu’alla: One of the important Makkah ziyarat places is Jannatul-Mualla which is also known as Al-Hajun. It is a well-known cemetery that is deeply significant as it is the resting place of Prophet Muhammad’s wife, his grandfather and many other family members. It is located to the north of the Masjid-al-Haram and is near the Mosque of the Jinn which makes it one of the most revered and important ziyarat places in Makkah.
- Masjid Al-Jinn: Located near the Jannat al-Mu’alla, this mosque is one of the city’s oldest and most important mosques. It is known as the spot where Jinn unseen beings gathered to hear Prophet Muhammad recite the holy Quran. When visiting Ziyarat in Makkah, Masjid al-Jinn is one of the key ziyarat places in Makkah to include in your spiritual journey.
- Safaa and Marwaa: Safaa and Marwaa are two small hills that are located within the Masjid al-Haram. These hills are an integral part of the rituals of Hajj and Umrah. It involves carrying out the Sai, which is walking/running between the hills of Safaa and Marwa seven times. After you are done with the Sai, you should do Halq or Taqsi, which involves men shaving their heads while women trim a small portion of their hair.
3-Star Hotels in Makkah Near Haram
Comfort and convenience are important factors for anyone travelling to Makkah for Umrah. Finding a good hotel that is conveniently located near Masjid al-Haram can greatly enhance your journey. There are several 3-star hotels in Makkah near Haram that are comfortable, convenient, and affordable and have all the essential amenities. A few hotels that are near haram include Elaf Almaqam Hotel, Emaar Andalusia Hotel, Hotel Barakah, Oasis Aldeafah Hotel, Anwar Al Diyafah Hotel, Nada Al Deefah Hotel, Hotel Barakkah Mawaddah and many more. These hotels cater to all your needs, offer easy access to Masjid al-Haram and make your stay comfortable and relaxing.
Conclusion
Taking the spiritual journey of Umrah is an experience that brings immense rewards and peace of mind. Whether you are planning Umrah for the first time or returning from another pilgrimage, making a note of the ziyarat places in Makkah, other must-visit places to visit in Makkah and 3-star hotels in Makkah near haram will help you have a fulfilling and relaxing journey. If you are looking for Umrah packages, visit Adila Hajj and Umrah Services for tailored packages that suit all your needs for a comfortable and memorable pilgrimage.
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