Mecca Saudi Arabia 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Itinerary for Travelling in Mecca, Saudi Arabia

Important Note: This itinerary is designed for Muslim pilgrims performing Umrah. Non-Muslims are not permitted to enter Mecca.

Things to Know:

  • Visa Requirements: All non-Saudi citizens require a visa to enter Saudi Arabia.
  • Dress Code: Modest dress is required at all times, especially for women who must wear an abaya (loose-fitting robe) and headscarf covering their hair.
  • Ramadan: If you are traveling during Ramadan, be aware of fasting hours and restrictions on eating and drinking in public.

Transportation:

  • Taxis: Readily available and relatively inexpensive.
  • Buses: Operate within Mecca and to surrounding areas.
  • Walking: The Masjid al-Haram (Grand Mosque) and its surrounding areas are best explored on foot.

Accommodation:

Mecca offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious resorts. Book in advance, especially during peak season. Popular areas include:

  • Ajyad: Close proximity to the Grand Mosque.
  • Al-Shishah: Known for its traditional architecture and bustling markets.

Day 1 - Arrival & Exploration

  • Arrive at King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) in Jeddah and take a taxi or bus to Mecca.
  • Check into your hotel and freshen up.
  • Visit the Masjid al-Haram (Grand Mosque), marvel at its grandeur, and perform Tawaf (circumambulation).
  • Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant near your hotel.

Day 2 - The Sacred Mosque & Zamzam Well

  • Start your day with Fajr prayer at the Grand Mosque.
  • Perform Sa’i (walking between Safa and Marwa hills) seven times.
  • Visit the Zamzam Well, drink its holy water, and reflect on its significance.
  • Have lunch at a restaurant in Abraj Al-Bait Clock Tower complex for panoramic views of the mosque.

Day 3 - Mount Arafat & Mina

  • Join a guided tour to Mount Arafat, where Prophet Muhammad delivered his final sermon.
  • Reflect and pray at the site.
  • Visit Mina, where pilgrims traditionally spend the night of Jamarat.
  • Return to Mecca in the evening.

Day 4 - Jabal al-Nour & Hira Cave

  • Take a taxi to Jabal al-Nour (Mountain of Light), the mountain where Prophet Muhammad received his first revelation.
  • Visit the Hira Cave, where the revelation took place.
  • Hike down the mountain and enjoy the scenic views.
  • Have lunch at a restaurant in the Al-Shishah district.

Day 5 - Shopping & Cultural Immersion

  • Explore the bustling markets of Mecca, such as Souq al-Aziziyah or Souq Abdullah Pasha.
  • Purchase souvenirs, traditional clothing, or dates.
  • Visit the Makkah Museum to learn about the history and culture of Mecca.

Day 6 - Relaxation & Reflection

  • Enjoy a relaxing day at your hotel, reflecting on your spiritual journey.
  • Take a dip in the pool or indulge in a spa treatment.
  • Have dinner at a rooftop restaurant with views of the Grand Mosque.

Day 7 - Departure

  • Perform Fajr prayer at the Grand Mosque.
  • Check out of your hotel and head to King Abdulaziz International Airport for your departure.

Tips:

  • Book flights and accommodation in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Learn basic Arabic phrases for easier communication.
  • Carry a small backpack with essentials like water, snacks, and prayer mat.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Be prepared for large crowds, especially during prayer times.

Other Things of Interest:

  • Masjid Taneem: The starting point for Ihram (ritual state of purity).
  • Museum of the Two Holy Mosques: Exhibits artifacts and historical documents related to Mecca and Medina.
  • Al-Jinn Mosque: A mosque known for its unique architectural style.

This itinerary is just a suggestion, and you can customize it according to your preferences and time constraints. Remember that the most important aspect of visiting Mecca is performing Umrah with sincerity and devotion.