Things To Do
in Mecca
Mecca, located in the western part of Saudi Arabia, is Islam's holiest city and the birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad. It hosts the Masjid al-Haram, the largest mosque in the world, which surrounds the Kaaba, a cube-shaped structure towards which Muslims worldwide pray.
Every year, millions of Muslims undertake the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, a mandatory religious duty that must be carried out at least once in their lifetime by all adult Muslims who are physically and financially capable.
- "Marhaban" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Afwan" - You're welcome
- "Inshallah" - God willing
- "Ma'a as-salama" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Mecca and check into your hotel. Take some time to rest and acclimate to the local environment.
Visit the iconic Masjid al-Haram and perform Umrah if applicable. Explore the surrounding area and its markets.
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and reflect on your first day in this spiritual city. Consider an early night to prepare for the following days.
Begin with a guided tour of historical Islamic sites in Mecca. Learn about their significance and history.
Visit the Quba Mosque, the first mosque in Islam, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Continue to the nearby Uhud Mountain for some fresh air.
Experience the tranquility of Masjid al-Haram during evening prayers. Join a local family for traditional Saudi cuisine.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Mecca is the holiest city in Islam, attracting millions of Muslim pilgrims each year for Hajj and Umrah.
- The city offers a rich cultural and historical experience with significant Islamic landmarks, such as the Kaaba and Masjid al-Haram.
- Mecca has a thriving economy due to religious tourism, providing economic opportunities for local businesses and services.
- The city has been modernized with improved infrastructure, hotels, and transportation to accommodate the influx of visitors.
- The population can swell dramatically during Hajj, leading to overcrowding, stress on infrastructure, and potential safety concerns.
- Non-Muslims are not allowed to enter the city, which can limit cultural exchange and diversity.
- The rapid development and commercialization may detract from the city's historical and spiritual essence.
- Environmental concerns arise with the large number of visitors, including waste management and pollution issues.
Best Activities in Mecca
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful mountains and enjoy the scenic views while hiking in the Mecca region.
Take a spiritual journey by visiting the Hira Cave, a significant historical and religious site.
Relax and have a picnic in the serene surroundings of Wadi Ibrahim, a popular outdoor spot for locals and tourists.
Tours
Uncover the best of Mecca with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Mecca
Visit one of these nice places.
The towers offer stunning views of the city and the Grand Mosque.
Offers a panoramic view of the plains below and is a significant site for pilgrims.
It is known for its panoramic view of the Holy Mosque and the Kaaba.
This mosque offers a spectacular view of the Kaaba and the Holy Mosque.
The mosque's minaret provides an excellent vantage point for capturing the cityscape and the Grand Mosque.
Food in Mecca
Mecca Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant rice dish mixed with various spices and either chicken, lamb, or camel meat, often garnished with nuts and raisins. Found in local restaurants and street food stalls.
Must-Try!
Deep-fried pastry triangles filled with spiced meat, vegetables, or cheese. Available in local eateries and markets.
A savory porridge made from cracked wheat and slow-cooked with either chicken or lamb, seasoned with ghee and aromatic spices. Commonly found in traditional restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a treasure trove of culinary delights, offering an array of street food such as kebabs, falafel, shawarma, and fresh fruit juices.
A must-visit for an authentic local food market experience, teeming with vendors selling spices, dried fruits, nuts, and freshly baked breads and pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Mecca, it is important to dress modestly, covering the shoulders and knees, and women should cover their heads with a scarf or hijab.
It is customary to greet people with the Islamic greeting 'As-salamu alaykum' and respond with 'Wa alaykumu s-salam', showing respect and courtesy.
Visitors should show reverence and respect when visiting religious sites in Mecca, such as the Kaaba, and adhere to the customs and traditions associated with these places.
Safety
Tipping in Mecca
Ensure a smooth experience
In Mecca, tipping is generally expected for good service, especially in hotels, restaurants, and other service-oriented businesses. The customary tip is around 10-15% of the total bill, although this can vary depending on the level of service received.
In Mecca, Saudi Riyal (SAR) is the official currency, and cash is widely used for transactions. However, many establishments also accept major credit cards and some may even accept international currencies. It's important for visitors to carry enough cash for smaller purchases and to be mindful of local customs when using credit cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Mecca as temperatures are comfortable and the city is less crowded. It's also the season of the pilgrimage of Umrah.
Another great time to visit Mecca as the weather is pleasant and the city is less crowded compared to the peak summer months.
Mecca experiences extremely high temperatures during the summer months, so it's best to avoid visiting during this time.
Winter in Mecca is mild, making it a popular time for visitors, but it can be crowded due to the pilgrimage of Umrah.
Mecca at Night
Hiking in Mecca
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A mountain located north of Mecca, known for its historical significance and the Cave of Hira. The hike offers beautiful views of the city.
Located to the east of Mecca, this mountain is less frequented and provides a more tranquil hiking experience with stunning natural scenery.
Famous for its historical importance and the cave where the Prophet Muhammad sought refuge. The hike is moderately challenging and offers panoramic views.
A picturesque valley located near Mecca, ideal for a day hike with opportunities for wildlife observation and enjoying the natural landscape.
A range of mountains located near Mecca that offers various trails and attractive landscapes for outdoor enthusiasts.
Aiports
How to reach Mecca by plane.
The primary airport serving Jeddah and the Mecca region, King Abdulaziz International Airport is one of the busiest airports in Saudi Arabia.
Located in Medina, this airport serves as a gateway for pilgrims heading to the holy sites and is approximately 350 kilometers from Mecca.
The largest airport in Saudi Arabia by area, located in Dammam, it’s around 1,200 kilometers from Mecca but is a major international hub.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Saudi citizens predominantly of Arab descent, making up the majority of the Mecca population.
A significant number of expatriates from countries like Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, and Indonesia who work in various sectors, especially labor and services.
Individuals from other Arab countries such as Egypt, Jordan, and Sudan, contributing to the cultural and economic landscape of Mecca.
A smaller demographic of individuals from various African countries, often involved in trade and seasonal employment.
Limited numbers of expatriates from Western countries, often working in specialized or managerial roles.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Mecca, with a large following and numerous local clubs participating in regional and national leagues.
Basketball has gained popularity, particularly among the youth, with many playing in schools and local courts.
Volleyball is widely played, especially in schools and community centers, and has a significant number of recreational leagues.
Cricket enjoys a dedicated fanbase, particularly among expatriate communities from cricket-loving nations.
Athletics events, including running and track competitions, are popular in schools and community sports events.
Various forms of martial arts, including Taekwondo and Karate, are practiced widely and have become popular among young adults.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mecca.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional cuisine heavily features meat, many restaurants and markets in Mecca offer vegetarian and vegan dishes such as falafel, hummus, stuffed grape leaves, and fresh salads.
Those with gluten sensitivities can enjoy dishes like grilled meats, rice-based dishes, and fresh fruits without worry. It's advisable to communicate dietary needs clearly when ordering.