Places to visit in Makkah
The city of Makkah is the holiest city in Islam and the capital of the Makkah Province of Saudi Arabia. Visiting Makkah for the Hajj is an obligation upon all able Muslims. The Great Mosque of Makkah, known as the Masjid al-Haram is home to the Kaaba, believed by Muslims to have been built by Abraham and Ishmael, is one of Islam's holiest sites and the direction of prayer for all Muslims (qibla), cementing Makkah's significance in Islam.
Here is a list of must-see places in Makkah:
Jabal Al Nour
Jabal Al Nour is famous for Hiraa cave, where the Prophet Mohamed (PBUH) received the first of his many revelations. This rocky peak is visible for many kilometers around. Its significance in Islamic history, along with soaring views of Makkah and the Holy Mosque from its summit, make Jabal Al Nour a popular spot for pilgrims.
Masjid Aisha
Aisha Mosque, also known as Masjid e Taneem, is a popular destination for pilgrims, especially locals who are beginning their Hajj or Umrah journeys. This is where Aisha (SAW), the beloved wife of Mohamed (PBUH), prepared to enter Ihram. This mosque serves as a place for adorning Ihram clothing. As such, Masjid e Taneem is equipped with a large number of washrooms and bathing facilities.
Jannat Al Mu’alla
Jannat Al Mu’allais the second most famous cemetery in the Islamic world. It is where many of the Prophet (PBUH)’s ancestors are buried, notably his mother (Aminah), grandfather (Abdul Muttalib), and first wife (Khadijah). This ancient burial place was respected even before Mohamed (PBUH) was born, and remains so to this day.
Jabal Thawr
Jabal Thawr was within a cave in Makkah that The Prophet (PBUH) and his companion Abu Bakr (RA) hid for three days from the Quraish tribe. To protect the two men, Allah (SWT) had a spider spin a web at the cave’s entrance, preventing their enemies from seeing within and finding them. Thawr Cave has since come to symbolize faith and hope.
Factory of Kaaba Kiswa Manufacturing
Over the centuries, the Kaaba’s coverings have been made in a variety of fabrics and colors. Today, this sacred duty falls to a special government-owned factory in Makkah. Multitudes of artisans design, dye, weave, print, and embroider the Kiswa. Great care is taken in crafting both its outer black silk curtain and inner green silk lining.
Exhibition of the Two Holy Mosques
The exhibition is dedicated to treasures from two of Islam’s holiest mosques. Discover how Al Masjid Al Haram in Makkah and Al-Masjid An Nabawi in Madinah have been transformed over the centuries.
