Mecca, also spelled Makkah, is a city in Saudi Arabia that is the holiest site in Islam. It is the birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad and home to the Kaaba, a cubic structure within the Masjid al-Haram mosque toward which Muslims around the world face during daily prayers. Mecca is significant because it is the site of the annual Hajj pilgrimage, which is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and a mandatory religious duty for Muslims that must be carried out at least once in their lifetime by all adult Muslims who are physically and financially capable of undertaking the journey.
No, only Muslims are permitted to enter Mecca due to its sacred significance in Islam. Non-Muslims are not allowed to enter the city, and the surrounding areas have checkpoints to enforce this rule. However, the rest of Saudi Arabia is open for tourism, and there have been many reforms to the tourist visa system to encourage more visitors.
While Muslims may visit Mecca at any time for Umrah, which is a pilgrimage that can be undertaken at any time of the year, the best time for tourism in Mecca would be outside of the Hajj season. Hajj takes place during the last month of the Islamic lunar calendar, Dhul-Hijjah, and during this period Mecca is extremely crowded. The climate is also a factor to consider; with a desert climate, Mecca experiences very hot summers, so visiting in the cooler months between November and February might be more comfortable.
Apart from the Masjid al-Haram and the Kaaba, which are the primary religious sites, other attractions include Jabal al-Nour (the Mountain of Light), Jabal Thawr (where the Prophet Muhammad and Abu Bakr took refuge during the migration to Medina), the Well of Zamzam, Makkah Museum, and the various shopping centers and luxury hotels close to the Grand Mosque.
Mecca offers a range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to more modest options. Many hotels are located in close proximity to the Masjid al-Haram, providing easy access for those performing pilgrimages. During Hajj season, prices may significantly rise due to high demand, so it is important to book well in advance.
Visitors to Mecca, and Saudi Arabia in general, must have a valid passport and obtain a visa appropriate for their purpose of visit. Pilgrims typically apply for a specific Hajj or Umrah visa, while those visiting for tourism purposes would need a tourist visa. E-visas have been made available to nationals of many countries, simplifying the process of visiting for tourism.
Visitors to Mecca should observe Islamic customs and Saudi regulations. Modest dress is required, and activities such as drinking alcohol, smoking in non-designated areas, and engaging in public displays of affection are prohibited. Men and women may have separate lines or areas in public spaces, and during prayer times, non-Muslim visitors should show respect by remaining quiet and refraining from walking through groups who are praying.
Transportation in Mecca includes a network of buses, taxis, and private car services. During Hajj, special public transportation services are implemented to manage the large number of pilgrims. For transportation to religious sites, there are also government-operated shuttle services available.
The currency used in Saudi Arabia, including Mecca, is the Saudi Riyal (SAR). Currency can be exchanged at banks, airports, hotels, and licensed exchange offices. ATMs are widely available and credit cards are accepted at most hotels and larger shopping centers.
Mecca is generally considered safe for pilgrims and tourists alike, especially in terms of personal safety. The Saudi government takes extensive measures to ensure the safety and security of pilgrims during Hajj and throughout the year. However, visitors should abide by local laws and customs, and be aware of their health, especially considering the physical demands of pilgrimage and the hot climate.
