Makkah, Saudi Arabia is one of the holiest cities in the world and is home to the Grand Mosque, the Kaaba, and the birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad. It is a place of great spiritual significance for Muslims and is visited by millions of pilgrims each year. But Makkah is much more than just a holy city – it is a vibrant and modern metropolis with an array of attractions and activities to explore.
Here is a list of the top 20 places to see in Makkah, Saudi Arabia.
1. The Grand Mosque:
The Grand Mosque, also known as the Masjid al-Haram, is the largest mosque in the world and is the holiest site in Islam. It is located in the center of Makkah and covers an area of about 356,800 square meters. The Grand Mosque houses the Kaaba, the holiest site in Islam, and the Black Stone. The mosque is open to visitors of all faiths and the interior is adorned with intricate Islamic art and architecture.
2. The Kaaba:
The Kaaba is a cube-shaped structure located in the center of the Grand Mosque. It is the holiest site in Islam and is believed to have been built by the Prophet Ibrahim and his son Ismail. Muslims from all over the world face the Kaaba when they pray and millions of pilgrims visit it during the annual Hajj pilgrimage.
3. The Black Stone:
The Black Stone is a sacred object located at the eastern corner of the Kaaba. It is believed to have been given to the Prophet Ibrahim by the angel Gabriel and is revered by Muslims from around the world. The Black Stone is kissed by pilgrims during the Hajj and is a symbol of unity and faith.
4. Jabal al-Nur (Mountain of Light):
Jabal al-Nur is a mountain located on the outskirts of Makkah. It is believed to be the site where the Prophet Muhammad received his first revelation from Allah. The mountain is a popular destination for pilgrims and is home to the Hira Cave, where the Prophet Muhammad spent many nights in prayer and meditation.
5. Al-Masjid al-Nabawi (The Prophet’s Mosque):
Al-Masjid al-Nabawi is located in the city of Madinah, about 200 miles north of Makkah. It is the second holiest site in Islam and is the final resting place of the Prophet Muhammad. The mosque is open to visitors of all faiths and is a popular destination for pilgrims.
6. Al-Baqi (The Garden of Paradise):
Al-Baqi is a cemetery located in the city of Madinah. It is the final resting place of many of the Prophet Muhammad’s family members and companions. The cemetery is a popular destination for pilgrims and is home to many shrines and monuments.
7. The Well of Zamzam:
The Well of Zamzam is located near the Kaaba in the Grand Mosque. It is believed to have been created by the angel Gabriel to provide water for the Prophet Ibrahim and his son Ismail. The water from the well is believed to have healing powers and is a popular destination for pilgrims.
8. The Abraj Al Bait Towers:
The Abraj Al Bait Towers are a complex of seven skyscrapers located in Makkah. The towers are the tallest buildings in Saudi Arabia and are home to the world’s largest clock face. The complex also includes a shopping mall, a mosque, and a hotel.
9. The Makkah Museum:
The Makkah Museum is located in the Abraj Al Bait Towers and is the first museum dedicated to the history of Makkah. The museum houses a collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of the city and its people.
10. Jabal al-Khandama (The Mountain of Mercy):
Jabal al-Khandama is a mountain located in the hills outside of Makkah. It is believed to be the place where the Prophet Muhammad delivered his final sermon. The mountain is a popular destination for pilgrims and is home to a number of shrines and monuments.
11. The Makkah Royal Clock Tower:
The Makkah Royal Clock Tower is a complex of four skyscrapers located in Makkah. The towers are the tallest in the world and are home to the world’s largest clock face. The complex also includes a shopping mall, a hotel, and a mosque.
12. The Makkah Mall:
The Makkah Mall is the largest shopping center in Saudi Arabia and is located in the Abraj Al Bait Towers. The mall is home to more than 500 stores and restaurants and is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
13. The Makkah Museum of Islamic Art:
The Makkah Museum of Islamic Art is located in the Abraj Al Bait Towers and is the first museum dedicated to Islamic art in Saudi Arabia. The museum houses a collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of Islamic art and culture.
14. The Makkah Royal Palace:
The Makkah Royal Palace is the official residence of the King of Saudi Arabia. The palace is located in the heart of the city and is open to visitors on certain days of the year.
15. The Makkah Zoo:
The Makkah Zoo is located in the heart of the city and is home to more than 400 animals, including lions, tigers, and elephants. The zoo is a popular destination for families and is open to visitors of all ages.
16. The Makkah Water Park:
The Makkah Water Park is located on the outskirts of the city and is the largest water park in Saudi Arabia. The park is home to more than 30 rides and attractions and is a popular destination for families.
17. The Makkah Cable Car:
The Makkah Cable Car is a gondola lift that runs between the Grand Mosque and the Abraj Al Bait Towers. The cable car offers spectacular views of the city and is a popular tourist attraction.
18. The Makkah Corniche:
The Makkah Corniche is a waterfront promenade located on the banks of the Red Sea. The promenade is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike and is home to a number of restaurants, cafes, and shops.
19. The Makkah Science Museum:
The Makkah Science Museum is located in the Abraj Al Bait Towers and is the first science museum in Saudi Arabia. The museum is home to a collection of interactive exhibits and is a popular destination for families.
20. The Makkah National Park:
The Makkah National Park is located on the outskirts of the city and is home to a variety of wildlife, including gazelles, ibex, and hyenas