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Mecca travel guide

Saudi Arabia

Basics

CountrySaudi Arabia

Time zoneAsia/Riyadh

CurrencySAR

Official language(s)Arabic

It is advisable to prepare conservative clothing when visiting Saudi Arabia.

Places to visit

King Abdulaziz Historical Center

A cultural complex presenting Saudi history and heritage. Visitors can enjoy exhibitions along with traditional architectural atmosphere.

HoursHours may vary

AdmissionPaid

Travel tipWith multiple exhibition spaces, it is a good half-day stop.

Jabal Thawr

A mountain known for the Cave of Thawr and its connection to the Hijrah. It is a quieter historic site on the outskirts of Mecca.

LocationSouthern outskirts of Mecca, Jabal Thawr

HoursOpen 24 hours daily

AdmissionFree

Travel tipThis is more of a hike, so consider your fitness and the weather. Sunset views can be rewarding.

Jabal al-Nour

A mountain home to the Cave of Hira, an important site in early Islamic history. The summit also offers views over Mecca.

LocationNortheast Mecca, Jabal al-Nour

HoursOpen 24 hours daily

AdmissionFree

Travel tipThe climb is steep and hot, so go early morning or in the evening. Bring water and good footwear.

The Kaaba

An iconic structure in Islam, it is the qibla (direction of prayer) for all Muslims.

HoursOpen 24 hours

AdmissionFree

Travel tipIt's advisable to avoid peak hours for safety reasons.

Hira Cave

Famous cave known as the place where Muhammad received his first revelation.

HoursFrom sunrise to sunset

AdmissionFree

Travel tipBring hiking gear and stay hydrated.

Al Masjid Al Haram

The holiest site in Islam, where millions of pilgrims visit every year.

HoursOpen 24 hours

AdmissionFree

Travel tipCheck for entry requirements and all Muslims are required to participate in prayers.

Abraj Al Bait Towers

A landmark high-rise building in Mecca, with nearby attractions and shopping malls.

Hours10:00 - 22:00

AdmissionFree

Travel tipMake sure to visit the observation deck for stunning views.

Food to try

Al Baik

A fried chicken fast-food chain that is very popular in Mecca.

Hours10:00 - 02:00

Admission₩ 10,000 - 15,000

Travel tipIt’s best to go early as some menu items may sell out.

Events

Mawlid (Prophet Muhammad's Birthday)

A celebration marking the birth of the Islamic prophet Muhammad.

WhenEvery year around January

Travel tipCheck the event schedule in advance.

Eid al-Adha (Festival of Sacrifice)

An event commemorated on the 10th day of the 12th month of the Islamic calendar.

WhenEvery year around June

Travel tipMake sure to prepare in advance for the celebrations.

Hajj (Pilgrimage)

The Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, held annually.

WhenEvery year around October

Travel tipAdvance booking and planning are essential.

Basic travel phrases (English)

Hello

Hello · Greeting

Thank you

Thank you · Thanks

Nice to meet you

Nice to meet you · Nice to meet you

Have a great day

Have a great day · Wishing a good day

Welcome

Welcome · Welcome

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