Makkah

The holiest city in Islam and home to the Kaaba, the most sacred site in Muslim worship. Millions of pilgrims visit annually for the Hajj pilgrimage and Umrah year-round.

Things to do

• Circumambulate the Kaaba — Perform Tawaf by walking counterclockwise around the Kaaba seven times, the central ritual of worship in the Grand Mosque.
• Pray at Masjid al-Haram — Worship in the world's largest mosque, which encompasses the Kaaba and can accommodate over 2 million worshippers.
• Visit Mount Arafat — Stand on the plain of Arafat where pilgrims gather for the essential rite of Hajj and spend time in reflection and prayer.
• Walk between Safa and Marwah — Complete the ritual of Sa'i by walking back and forth seven times between the two hills, commemorating Hagar's search for water.
• Explore the Abraj Al-Bait Clock Tower — Visit the iconic clock tower complex overlooking the Kaaba, featuring shops, hotels, and observation decks with panoramic views.
• Visit the Makkah Museum — Learn about the history of Makkah and Islam through exhibits displaying artifacts, manuscripts, and cultural displays.

Food to try

• Kabsa — A fragrant rice dish cooked with spiced meat, typically served with yogurt and a tomato-based sauce, popular throughout Saudi Arabia.
• Shawarma — Seasoned meat (chicken, lamb, or beef) shaved from a rotating spit and served in pita bread with tahini and vegetables.
• Falafel — Deep-fried chickpea patties flavored with spices, commonly enjoyed as a snack or in sandwiches with hummus and fresh vegetables.
• Luqaimat — Small, sweet fried dough balls drizzled with date syrup or honey, a traditional dessert especially popular during Ramadan.
• Harees — A slow-cooked porridge of wheat, meat, and ghee traditional to the Arabian Peninsula, often prepared during Ramadan and special occasions.

Local customs & good to know

• Modest dress required — Both men and women must wear loose, modest clothing; women are required to wear an abaya and headscarf, and men wear the ihram garment during pilgrimage.
• Non-Muslims cannot enter the sacred zone — Only Muslims are permitted to enter the haram (sacred area) around the Kaaba and Masjid al-Haram; clear boundaries mark the restricted zones.
• Prayer times govern daily life — Most businesses close during the five daily prayer times, particularly Jumu'ah (Friday prayer), so plan activities accordingly.
• Respect ritual protocols — Learn basic Islamic etiquette such as removing shoes before entering prayer areas, using only your right hand for eating and greeting, and avoiding pointing at the Kaaba.