Find Hotels in Mecca

Overview

Mecca, located in the Makkah Province of Saudi Arabia, is the holiest city in Islam and the birthplace of Prophet Muhammad. It is here that the revelation of the Quran took place, making it a spiritual epicenter for over a billion Muslims worldwide. Each year, millions of pilgrims from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds converge on Mecca, creating a vibrant tapestry of global Muslim culture. The city is a true melting pot, offering a unique blend of traditions and customs.

Currently, the average price of hotels in Mecca is $337, with options ranging from $17 to $12,076. With 260 hotels available, visitors have a wide array of accommodations to choose from. Among the most popular is the Razana Al Rowdah, known for its exceptional service and proximity to key religious sites.

Things to do in Mecca

One of the most significant landmarks in Mecca is the Al-Haram Mosque, also known as Al-Masjid Al-Haram. This mosque is one of the three most sacred in Islam, alongside An-Nabawi in Medina and Al-Aqsa in Jerusalem. It is also the largest mosque in the world. Millions of worshippers visit Al-Haram Mosque annually during the Hajj pilgrimage to perform Salah (acts of worship) and Tawaf, which involves seven circular walks around the Kaaba. The Kaaba, located within the mosque, is the holiest site in Islam. Built by Prophet Abraham and his son, Prophet Ishmael, it houses the Black Stone, which was given to them by the Archangel Gabriel and later placed in the eastern corner by Prophet Muhammad.

Another must-visit site is Jabal Al-Nour, or the Mountain of Light. This is where Prophet Muhammad received his first revelation. Pilgrims often visit the Cave of Hira on this mountain, where the Prophet spent considerable time in meditation and received the initial verses of the Quran.

Mina, also known as Tent City, is another significant location. It is the site where Prophet Abraham stoned the Devil, represented by three pillars symbolizing temptation. During the Hajj, Mina serves as a temporary home for up to 3 million pilgrims, who stay in more than 100,000 air-conditioned tents spread over an area of approximately 20 km².

Lastly, Jabal Arafat, or Mount Arafat, is a small hill outside Mecca where Prophet Muhammad delivered his final sermon. Known as the Mountain of Mercy, it is also the place where God forgave Adam and Eve after their fall from heaven. This site holds immense religious significance and is a focal point during the Hajj pilgrimage.

Where to Eat in Mecca

For those looking to dine with a view, Al Dyafa Restaurant is an excellent choice. Located just steps away from Al-Haram Mosque, it offers an unparalleled vista of the Kaaba. The restaurant serves a variety of Middle Eastern and international dishes, featuring both an extensive a la carte menu and a generous buffet.

The Oasis Restaurant provides a refined dining experience with a blend of local Arabic, Asian, and Western cuisines. Its elegant interior overlooks the holiest of places, making it a popular choice for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Al Shorfa Restaurant offers a unique dining experience on its open-air terrace, which provides a stunning panoramic view of the Kaaba. The restaurant serves both a buffet and an a la carte menu, catering to guests for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

For a more casual dining option, Albaik is a popular fast-food chain specializing in fried chicken and shrimp. With several branches in major cities across Saudi Arabia, it is a favorite among both locals and tourists, often evidenced by the long queues at the entrance.

Whether you are visiting for religious purposes or to experience the rich cultural heritage, Mecca offers a variety of activities and dining options to make your stay memorable.