The Kaaba, also spelled Ka'bah, is a small, cube-shaped building in the center of Islam's most sacred mosque, Al-Masjid Al-Haram, in Mecca (Makkah), Saudi Arabia. It is the most sacred site in Islam, and Muslims around the world face the Kaaba during their daily prayers.
No, non-Muslims are not allowed to enter the holy city of Mecca (Makkah) and thus cannot visit the Kaaba. The city is strictly off-limits to non-Muslims as per Islamic tradition and Saudi Arabian law.
The Kaaba is considered the 'House of Allah' and is the point toward which Muslims turn during prayer. It is also the focal point of the Hajj pilgrimage, which is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and a religious duty that every Muslim must undertake at least once in their lifetime if they are able.
The best time for Muslims to visit the Kaaba for religious tourism is during the Hajj, which takes place annually in the Islamic calendar's last month, Dhu al-Hijjah. Outside of Hajj, Muslims might prefer to perform Umrah, the lesser pilgrimage, which can be done at any time of the year and is typically less crowded.
Other significant sites near the Kaaba within Al-Masjid Al-Haram include the Black Stone, Maqam Ibrahim (Station of Abraham), the Safa and Marwa hills associated with the ritual of Sa’i, and the Zamzam Well whose water is believed to have blessed properties.
Visitors should observe Islamic dress codes when visiting the Kaaba. Men should wear clothes that cover them from the navel to the knees at least, while women should wear a loose-fitting dress covering all but the hands and face. However, during Hajj or Umrah, specific attire (Ihram) is required for both men and women.
Tourists are allowed to take photographs of the Kaaba, however, they should be respectful and avoid capturing pictures of people in prayer or taking photographs during prayer times. It is always recommended to ask for permission if photographing nearby individuals.
Guided tours are generally not needed for visiting the Kaaba itself, as it is situated in an open courtyard and the religious practices performed there are quite personal. However, there may be group packages for Umrah or Hajj that include guidance for those unfamiliar with the rites and rituals.
While Arabic is the primary language in Saudi Arabia, many of those who work in the services sector, especially in Mecca, can speak English. Signage in and around the sacred mosque is typically bilingual in Arabic and English, and information brochures are available in various languages as well.
Mecca (Makkah) offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury hotels with views of the Kaaba to more affordable options a little further away. It is advisable to book well in advance, especially during the Hajj season, as the city becomes very crowded with pilgrims.
Religious Places (9)
Historical Places (8)
Museums (5)
National Parks (1)
Zoos (1)
Mountains (2)
