Mecca (Makkah)
Islam's holiest city, for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims.
Saudi Arabia · Middle East ·
18.7M international visitors (2025)
Mecca is home to the Masjid al-Haram and the Kaaba. Entry to the city is for Muslims only; most visitors come for Umrah or the annual Hajj.
Top attractions in Mecca (Makkah)
- Masjid al-HaramThe Grand Mosque and the Kaaba, the center of Umrah and Hajj rites.
- Umrah ritesTawaf around the Kaaba and Sa'i between Safa and Marwah.
- Jabal al-NourThe mountain of the Hira cave.
- Mina, Muzdalifah and ArafatHajj sites outside the city.
- Makkah MuseumHistory of the Two Holy Mosques.
- MadinahThe Prophet's Mosque, about 2.5 hours by high-speed train.
Where to stay
Hotels near the Haram (Clock Tower area) save long walks; farther areas use shuttle buses.
Getting there and around
From the airport. Fly into Jeddah (JED); the Haramain high-speed train reaches Mecca in about an hour. Madinah (MED) is the other gateway.
In the city. Haramain train between Jeddah, Mecca and Madinah; hotel shuttles and taxis locally.
Train and bus tips
- Haramain high-speed train connects Jeddah, Mecca and Madinah.
- Hotel shuttles and public buses run to the Haram.
- During Hajj, transport between holy sites is organized by your operator.
- Book train seats early for Ramadan and Hajj.
Events, nightlife and sports
Nightlife and parties. Not applicable: Mecca is a religious city. Evenings center on prayers at the Haram.
Sports. None in Mecca itself. Nearby Jeddah hosts the Saudi Arabian Formula 1 Grand Prix (usually spring).
Dates change every year; check official sites before booking. The concierge can get tickets.
What to eat
R Travel tours
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Flights, visa support and hotels near the Haram with a licensed Umrah operator.
- Hotel near the Haram
- Haramain train tickets
- Group guidance
Umrah in Mecca and nights in Madinah near the Prophet's Mosque.
- Both holy cities
- Train transfers
- Ziyarat visits
Last ten nights of Ramadan in Mecca.
- Early booking
- Iftar arrangements
- Hotel near the Haram
Practical info
When to go
Umrah is year-round; Ramadan is the busiest period. Hajj dates follow the Islamic calendar.
Money
Saudi riyal (SAR)
Language
Arabic
R Travel tip
Book Umrah through a licensed provider and register on the official Nusuk platform.
Good to know
- Non-Muslims may not enter Mecca.
- Hajj requires a Hajj visa through an approved operator.
- Summer temperatures often exceed 110°F.
Opening hours, prices, event dates and entry rules change. Check official sites before you go. Written by the R Travel team.