Makkah – The Sacred Heart of Islam and the Pilgrimage of a Lifetime
Islam’s holiest city is Makkah, which is located in a desert valley in western Saudi Arabia and is where the Prophet Muhammad and the religion itself were born. The Kaaba, the cube-shaped edifice covered in fabric and serving as Islam’s holiest site, is surrounded by the central Masjid al-Haram (Sacred Mosque), which dates to the 7th century.
Millions of Muslims visit the city every year for the Hajj, and it is only open to Muslims (pilgrimage). It serves as a reminder of the Hajj trip, which is an annual event that gathers millions of people and is a religious obligation that every capable Muslim must do at least once in their lives.
The surrounding mountains are home to the Cave of Thawr, where the Prophet sought safety from the Quraysh clan, and the venerated Jabal Rahmah, where he spoke his last sermon.
Destinations
Jannat Al-Mu'alla Cemetry
The enormous, walled cemetery known as Jannat al-Mu’alla is located about one kilometre to the north of Al Masjid Al Haram.
The name Jannat al-Mu’alla, also referred to as the Cemetery of Mu’alla or Al Hajun, translates to “The Most Exalted Paradise.”
This site holds deep historical and spiritual significance for Muslims, as it is the burial place of several of the Prophet Muhammad’s ancestors and close relatives.
Masjid al-Haram
At the heart of Makkah stands the Great Mosque (Masjid al-Haram), one of the largest mosques in the world, capable of holding up to 4 million worshipers.
At its center lies the Kaaba—a cube-shaped structure draped in black silk embroidered with gold calligraphy. It is the most sacred site in Islam and the focal point of Muslim prayer.
Pilgrims visiting this holy site for the lesser pilgrimage (Umrah) follow specific rites. These include:
- Tawaf: Walking seven times around the Kaaba in a counterclockwise direction.
- Sa’i: Walking seven times between Mount Safa and Mount Marwa, reenacting the journey of Hajar (Hagar) in search of water.
Pilgrims wear special garments and observe prescribed rituals as a sign of spiritual purity and unity.
Flavours & Heritage
Food
On one of Makkah’s most beautiful avenues, visit the Gurkan Sef Steakhouse for delectable steaks and Turkish cuisine. You may fill up on a scrumptious breakfast buffet at the Oasis Restaurant at the Jabal Omar Hyatt Regency Makkah to prepare you for a day of exploration. Chinese, Asian, and Arabian cuisine is served in the kid- and family-friendly Al Atbaq Restaurant.
Culture
Makkah has a substantial density of people. While densities in the city’s contemporary residential sections are the lowest, the majority of inhabitants are concentrated in the ancient city. One to two million pilgrims from various regions of Saudi Arabia and other Muslim nations swarm the city during the month-long pilgrimage.
Only Muslims who adhere to their religion are allowed entry into Makkah. However, Makkah is one of the most multicultural cities in the world, with residents from many different nations. In some areas of the city, neighbours who share the same nationality are more likely to live together.
