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Pilgrim’s guide to

Makkah Al-Mukarramah

Introduction

In the past, Makkah was called Bakkah, Umm Al-Qura, and Al-Balad Al-Amin, and its mountains witnessed the first revelation.  Its visitors stand in amazement in front of the honorable Kaaba, the qiblah of Muslims from all over the world, in the middle of Masjid Al-Haram with its majestic view, surrounded by thousands of worshipers all the time. Makkah welcomes millions of Muslims who go to Hajj or Umrah.  It is the purest spot on Earth, and the holiest Islamic destination in the world, and it includes historical destinations that reveal immortal stories that left their mark in Islamic history.  It was also an important commercial station for mobile trade caravans between the north and south, and an area rich in literary forums, and seasonal markets that highlighted its cultural and commercial status. Makkah receives guests from all over the world but entry to the Haram area is for Muslims only.

History of Makkah

A brief introduction to the rich history of Makkah to demonstrate its role in Umrah and Hajj

History of Makkah

Makkah is the Sacred City as well as the holiest and the absolute most honorable place on earth. The most truthful sources from which one can take news about its history are the Noble Quran and the authentic prophetic narrations in this regard, and from these we can ascertain its ancient history as well as how it was prior the message and prophet hood of Muhammad صلى الله عليه وعلى آله وسلم. After the advent of Islam, Muslim scholars and historians have endeavoured to record chronicles of Makkah in general history books as well as books concerned with the biographies of the Muslim scholars who lived in it.

Makkah: The Haram

What is the meaning of ‘Haram’ (Sanctuary)?
‘Haram’ or Sanctuary refers to a unique area where certain activities, usually permitted elsewhere, are disallowed out of profound respect and reverence for God, who set these rules. God said that those who respect these sanctified sites would be rewarded. God selected this land as sacred, with specific rules differing from other locations. It possesses exclusive merits not found anywhere else, and its sanctity dates back to the dawn of the universe.

God declared this land a Sanctuary on the day the universe was created, a status that will endure till the end of time. As the Prophet said: “From the day He created the heavens and the earth, God declared this town a sanctuary. It remains a sanctuary by God’s decree till the end of time.”

What does the Sanctuary mean to you?
You are now in a place that was distinguished and sanctified by God before the creation of humans. It’s the location where God instructed Ibrahim to lay the foundations of the House (Kabah), even before a single soul lived in Makkah. It was chosen to be the Qiblah and guidance for all. In this place, rewards for good deeds are amplified, and sins hold more significance than elsewhere.

God entrusted His noblest humans, Ibrahim and Ismail, and then Muhammad, with the responsibility of purifying, building, and taking care of the Kabah.

Hotels

Abraj Al-Bait

Abraj Al-Bait is a luxury hotel destination that receives more than 4 million pilgrims annually. The majestic skyscrapers stand steps away from the first qiblah for Muslims in Al Masjed Al Haram in Makkah, including the tallest clock tower in the world. The towers consist of 76 floors, including 7 luxury five-star hotels, offering a distinctive hospitality experience, with vibrant spiritual views. They include a group of restaurants that serve the best local and international flavors, in addition to a large shopping center that meets all your needs.

Swissotel Makkah

The Swissotel Makkah Hotel is the only property in the Abraj Al Bait Endowment, the famous government-owned complex with seven skyscraper hotels, with a direct entrance through Ajyad Street. This five-star hotel also holds the distinction of being the first Swissotel to be opened in Saudi Arabia and the entire Middle East. When making your Swissotel Makkah booking, you can choose among the hotel’s 1,487 elegant rooms and suites with a modern contemporary design that combines the rich and fascinating Arab and Alpine culture and style. The guest rooms are equipped with flat-screen TVs, ergonomic seats and desks, Wi-Fi access, bathrooms, and prayer mats.

ZamZam Pullman Makkah Hotel

Ideally located in the prime touristic area of Ajyad, ZamZam Pullman Makkah Hotel promises a relaxing and wonderful visit. Featuring a complete list of amenities, guests will find their stay at the property a comfortable one. 24-hour room service, free Wi-Fi in all rooms, daily housekeeping, gift/souvenir shop, 24-hour front desk are on the list of things guests can enjoy. Comfortable guestrooms ensure a good night’s sleep with some rooms featuring facilities such as television LCD/plasma screen, carpeting, linens, mirror, slippers. The hotel offers various recreational opportunities. Discover all Mecca has to offer by making ZamZam Pullman Makkah Hotel your base.

Makkah Clock Royal Tower, A Fairmont Hotel

Mecca’s Fairmont Hotel is in one of the tallest buildings in the world, Makkah Clock Royal Tower. It is near the Masjid Al Haram and the closest hotel to Kaaba, making it a strategic place to stay during Umrah and Hajj. The Fairmont Makkah Clock Royal Tower Hotel features 1618 guest rooms and suites, all thoughtfully and stylishly designed with elegant amenities and come with first-rate services that let you experience relaxation and engage in reflection any time of the day. The guest rooms and suites are designed in tasteful Art Deco style. Each unit is furnished with an LCD TV and a spacious bathroom with a bathtub.

Movenpick Hotel & Residence Hajar Tower Makkah

This five-star luxury hotel is only a few steps away from the holy Kaaba. Covering over 31 floors, the hotel boasts more than a thousand rooms and suites. Your accommodation options include classic rooms, deluxe suites and royal suites. Each room features a contemporary interior design and modern furnishings. It is also furnished with an LCD TV with 80 channels, complimentary Wi-Fi Internet access, coffee- and tea-making facilities and a private bathroom. A Movenpick Hotel & Residence Hajar Tower Makkah booking lets you enjoy 24-hour room service and daily housekeeping.

Elaf Kinda Hotel

This beautiful 5-star hotel is within very close proximity to the Haram and has excellent reported levels of service and hospitality. Their restaurants including Al Diwaniya Restaurant and Al Diyafa Restaurant overlook the Holy Haram and room service is available throughout the day. Services offered by the reception staff at the Elaf Kinda Hotel include a currency exchange and car rental service. There are over 1,000 shops adjacent to the hotel inside and outside the King Abdulaziz stand. The ZamZam well is only 500 yards from the hotel and the Makkah Museum is 2.2 miles.

Al Marwa Rayhaan Hotel by Rotana

Located in Makkah’s Clock Tower, this luxurious hotel offers stunning views of the Kaaba and Masjid Al Haram. The rooms are comfortable and modernly decorated, offering TV with satellite channels, wifi and room service that is that is noted as exemplary by previous occupants. The Al Marwa Rayhaan by Rotana is also adacent to a new commercial complex, which includes a large shopping mall and an air-conditioned mosque. The experience here has driven many loyal customers with the hotel having more repeat guests than most other properties.

Hilton Makkah Convention Hotel

Highly rated for its location, food and comfortable beds, the Hilton Makkah Convention Hotel is only few steps from Al Shubaikah Umrah entrance Gate as well. Other amenities include a prayer room overlooking the Haram, 24-hour room service, and a fitness center. The hotel also offers car hire. Masjid Al Haram is 600 metres from Hilton Makkah Convention Hotel, while Abraj Al Bait is 800 metres away.

Jabal Omar Hyatt Regency Makkah

Jabal Omar Hyatt Regency Makkah is located in the heart of Makkah and spans over 19 floors, featuring 656 generously sized guestrooms, including 25 suites which range in size from 38 to 190 square metres. The hotel combines rich room designs, diverse dining experiences and services such as room service, a separate men’s and women’s state-of-the-art fitness centre and facilities for disabled guests. The closest airport, 75km away is King Abdulaziz Airport and Masjid Al-Haram is positively within walking distance.

Restaurants

Makkah has many traditional food restaurants with various delicious dishes and recipes of mothers and grandmothers inherited throughout the generations.

Step

1


Al Faiha Restaurant - Al Safwah Hotel

Step

2


Mazaq Cafe - Fairmont Clock Royal Tower


Al Faiha Restaurant - Al Safwah Hotel

Al Faiha Restaurant is one of the best buffet restaurants in Makkah overlooking Al Masjid Al Haram. The restaurant is clean and tidy. The dishes are inspired by internatinal as well as Asian cusine. They have rice, fried chicken, salads and many items to eat. They have desserts like cake, jelly, pudding, and many more. The buffet is incredible and the staff are very helpful. The seating area is nice and comfy. Al Faiha is located in Al Safwah Hotel – Tower One overlookingn the King Abdul Aziz Gate of the Grand Mosque in Makkah.

Open Hours:

BREAKFAST: 06:00 AM to 10:00 AM

LUNCH: 12:30 PM to 03:00 PM

DINNER: 07:00 PM to 10:00PM

Al Faiha Restaurant is one of the best buffet restaurants in Makkah overlooking Al Masjid Al Haram. The restaurant is clean and tidy. The dishes are inspired by internatinal as well as Asian cusine. They have rice, fried chicken, salads and many items to eat. They have desserts like cake, jelly, pudding, and many more. The buffet is incredible and the staff are very helpful. The seating area is nice and comfy. Al Faiha is located in Al Safwah Hotel – Tower One overlookingn the King Abdul Aziz Gate of the Grand Mosque in Makkah.

Open Hours:

BREAKFAST: 06:00 AM to 10:00 AM

LUNCH: 12:30 PM to 03:00 PM

DINNER: 07:00 PM to 10:00PM

Mazaq Cafe is a beautiful restaurant which is a part of Makkah’s Royal Clock Tower. Their operating hours are available from 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM and the proce ranges from $12 – $27. Mazaq Express offers conveniently fresh and wholesomepre-packaged meals for those on-the-go.

Landmarks

Mina

A stage of Hajj journey. It is characterized by white tents. It has recently won the Guinness World Records Award for the largest tent city in the world. It provides many services, including the Mashaer Train, housing camps, catering, transportation system, integrated electricity system, and interconnected road network. Pilgrims usually spend the Day of Tarwiyah (the eighth day of Dhu al-Hijjah) there and return to Mina again to spend Day of Nahr (the tenth day of Dhu al-Hijjah) and the three days of Tashreeq (the eleventh, the twelfth, and thirteenth days of Dhul-Hijjah). Mina is the first stage of Hajj. It has a historical and religious status. It is famous for archaeological landmarks and historical events, as it is located within the boundaries of the Haram between Makkah and Muzdalifah, 7 km to the northeast of the Holy Mosque. Mina also includes the extension of “Ain Zubaida,” in addition to some old wells, including the well of Kadana. Mina is famous for the historical seasonal markets, including the Arab Market, which was given this name because most Arab pilgrims used to display their goods at this market from the tenth day to the thirteenth day of Dhu al-Hijjah.

Arafah

One of the stages of the pilgrim’s journey. It occurs on the ninth day of Dhu al-Hijjah, where pilgrims stand at Arafah. The Prophet, may peace and prayers be upon him, said: (Hajj is Arafah). That is why it is called the Greatest Day of Hajj. Standing at Arafah and supplication anywhere within the boundaries of Arafah or the Mountain of Mercy are allowed on the day of Arafah. On the day of Arafah, pilgrims join and shorten zuhr prayer and asr prayer. The prayer has a sermon as the Prophet, may peace and prayers be upon him, did as he performed Hajj, delivered a sermon, and led Muslims in his last farewell Hajj. Pilgrims start to depart Arafat to head to Muzdalifah after the sunset. The day of Arafah has great virtues, as the Prophet, may peace and prayers be upon him, said that the day of Arafah is the best day for Allah.

Muzdalifah

Allah called it al- Mash’ar al-Haram in the Holy Qur’an: (But when you depart from ‘Arafat, remember Allah at al- Mash’ar al-Haram). It is a stage of the Hajj journey. It is located between Mina and Arafah. The pilgrims stay overnight there after they depart Arafah. They join and shorten Maghrib and Isha prayers and collect pebbles for Jamarat, in Mina. Pilgrims stay there for part of the night or until the dawn of the next day, the day of Eid, to move to Mina.

Namirah Mosque

A mosque that was built in Arafah where the Prophet, may peace and prayers be upon him, delivered a sermon for the last farewell Hajj. In Namirah Mosque, thousands of pilgrims pray zuhr and asr prayers on the day of Arafah. It is located to the west of Arafah. The western part of the Mosque is located in Wadi ‘Arnah, which is a valley of Makkah Al-Mukarramah where the Prophet prohibited pilgrims from standing there because it is not a part of Arafat, but it is very close thereto. Namirah Mosque is known in many books by several other names, such as the Mosque of the Prophet Ibrahim, Arafah Mosque, and Arnah Mosque. The name Arafah Mosque was originated from a village outside Arafah Area where the Prophet, may peace and prayers be upon him, resided and then moved to the valley, where he prayed zuhr and asr prayers and delivered a sermon in the Mosque. During the era of the Saudi State, the Mosque witnessed the largest expansions in history, where it became the second largest mosque in Makkah in terms of area after the Holy Mosque. The length of the Mosque from east to west is 340 meters, and the width from north to south is 240 meters. Its area is more than 110,000 square meters. Behind the Mosque, there is a shaded area of 8 thousand square meters. The Mosque accommodates about 350 thousand worshippers. It has six minarets and an equipped outside broadcasting room for broadcasting the sermon and zuhr and asr prayers on the day of Arafat, directly by satellite.

Jamarat

One of the most prominent landmarks of Mina is the Jamarat or the Jamrah Pillars that are thrown at the Jamarat Bridge. The three Jamarat are located in Mina Valley. Currently, they are within the Jamarat Bridge, which is one of the great achievements of the Kingdom’s Government, in order to organize crowds and provide safety when they go to throw Jamarat. At the beginning of the Day of Nahr, only the seven pebbles of the biggest Jamrah are thrown. During the days of Tashreeq, each Jamrah is thrown at with seven pebbles, from the Smallest Jamrah, the Middle Jamrah, and finally the Biggest Jamrah. A pilgrim can throw Jamarat from any floor of the Jamarat Bridge. It is very important for pilgrims to abide by the schedule of Tafweej (Group Dispatching) set by the organizers for throwing Jamarat and the directions of movement, in order to maintain the safety and security of others. The Jamarat Bridge is one of the pioneering projects that has made a civilizational and engineering leap in the service of pilgrims. The Jamarat Facility consists of four floors, in addition to the ground floor. It is 80 meters wide and has 12 entrances for Jamarat and 12 exits in the four directions, which reduces overcrowding. The Bridge is linked to the pilgrim camps.

Mount Noor (Jabal An-Noor) and the cave of Hira

Mount Noor is the place where Allah honored His Prophet Muhammad (blessings and peace be upon him) with prophethood. This is where he used to spend his time in worship of his Lord and in contemplation of Allah’s creation. In this cave the history of mankind changed when Gabriel conveyed the revelation from Allah to Muhammad (blessings and peace be upon him). The first thing that was revealed was: {Read! In the name of your Lord Who creates. [He] creates man from a clot. Read! And your Lord is the Most Bounteous. It is He Who teaches by the pen. [He] teaches man that which he does not know.} The location of the Cave of Hira’: North of the Grand Mosque, at the top of Jabal An-Noor. The cave is about 4.8 km (3 miles) from Makkah. Elevation: approximately 634 m (2080 ft.) The cave is a natural void with its entrance towards the north, which can accommodate up to 9 sitting people. It is about 1.6 m. Please note: It is neither obligatory nor recommended to visit the cave as it has nothing to do with the Hajj rituals. It should be noted that it is difficult for the elderly and sick to reach the cave.

Introduction

In the past, Makkah was called Bakkah, Umm Al-Qura, and Al-Balad Al-Amin, and its mountains witnessed the first revelation.  Its visitors stand in amazement in front of the honorable Kaaba, the qiblah of Muslims from all over the world, in the middle of Masjid Al-Haram with its majestic view, surrounded by thousands of worshipers all the time. Makkah welcomes millions of Muslims who go to Hajj or Umrah.  It is the purest spot on Earth, and the holiest Islamic destination in the world, and it includes historical destinations that reveal immortal stories that left their mark in Islamic history.  It was also an important commercial station for mobile trade caravans between the north and south, and an area rich in literary forums, and seasonal markets that highlighted its cultural and commercial status. Makkah receives guests from all over the world but entry to the Haram area is for Muslims only.

Getting There

To travel to Makkah, you have the option of either going by road or by air, depending on your location. Many people choose to fly to Jeddah, which is the closest city to Makkah. The distance between Jeddah and Makkah is approximately 89 km via the 40/route road. From Jeddah, you can then make your way to Makkah.

If you’re coming from another country, it is recommended to obtain a tourist visa to visit the other cities in Saudi Arabia during your Umrah trip. In the past, pilgrims were only allowed to visit Makkah, Madinah, and Jeddah, but now you can explore other cities as well with a tourist visa.

To obtain a Hajj visa, you need to follow a specific process. First, you should start the application well in advance to allow for any potential delays. After submitting your application, you will need to wait for the visa approval. The processing time can vary, so it’s best to stay in touch with the authorities or your travel agency for updates on your visa status.

Landmarks

Mina

A stage of Hajj journey. It is characterized by white tents. It has recently won the Guinness World Records Award for the largest tent city in the world. It provides many services, including the Mashaer Train, housing camps, catering, transportation system, integrated electricity system, and interconnected road network. Pilgrims usually spend the Day of Tarwiyah (the eighth day of Dhu al-Hijjah) there and return to Mina again to spend Day of Nahr (the tenth day of Dhu al-Hijjah) and the three days of Tashreeq (the eleventh, the twelfth, and thirteenth days of Dhul-Hijjah). Mina is the first stage of Hajj. It has a historical and religious status. It is famous for archaeological landmarks and historical events, as it is located within the boundaries of the Haram between Makkah and Muzdalifah, 7 km to the northeast of the Holy Mosque. Mina also includes the extension of “Ain Zubaida,” in addition to some old wells, including the well of Kadana. Mina is famous for the historical seasonal markets, including the Arab Market, which was given this name because most Arab pilgrims used to display their goods at this market from the tenth day to the thirteenth day of Dhu al-Hijjah.

Arafah

One of the stages of the pilgrim’s journey. It occurs on the ninth day of Dhu al-Hijjah, where pilgrims stand at Arafah. The Prophet, may peace and prayers be upon him, said: (Hajj is Arafah). That is why it is called the Greatest Day of Hajj. Standing at Arafah and supplication anywhere within the boundaries of Arafah or the Mountain of Mercy are allowed on the day of Arafah. On the day of Arafah, pilgrims join and shorten zuhr prayer and asr prayer. The prayer has a sermon as the Prophet, may peace and prayers be upon him, did as he performed Hajj, delivered a sermon, and led Muslims in his last farewell Hajj. Pilgrims start to depart Arafat to head to Muzdalifah after the sunset. The day of Arafah has great virtues, as the Prophet, may peace and prayers be upon him, said that the day of Arafah is the best day for Allah.

Muzdalifah

Allah called it al- Mash’ar al-Haram in the Holy Qur’an: (But when you depart from ‘Arafat, remember Allah at al- Mash’ar al-Haram). It is a stage of the Hajj journey. It is located between Mina and Arafah. The pilgrims stay overnight there after they depart Arafah. They join and shorten Maghrib and Isha prayers and collect pebbles for Jamarat, in Mina. Pilgrims stay there for part of the night or until the dawn of the next day, the day of Eid, to move to Mina.

Namirah Mosque

A mosque that was built in Arafah where the Prophet, may peace and prayers be upon him, delivered a sermon for the last farewell Hajj. In Namirah Mosque, thousands of pilgrims pray zuhr and asr prayers on the day of Arafah. It is located to the west of Arafah. The western part of the Mosque is located in Wadi ‘Arnah, which is a valley of Makkah Al-Mukarramah where the Prophet prohibited pilgrims from standing there because it is not a part of Arafat, but it is very close thereto. Namirah Mosque is known in many books by several other names, such as the Mosque of the Prophet Ibrahim, Arafah Mosque, and Arnah Mosque. The name Arafah Mosque was originated from a village outside Arafah Area where the Prophet, may peace and prayers be upon him, resided and then moved to the valley, where he prayed zuhr and asr prayers and delivered a sermon in the Mosque. During the era of the Saudi State, the Mosque witnessed the largest expansions in history, where it became the second largest mosque in Makkah in terms of area after the Holy Mosque. The length of the Mosque from east to west is 340 meters, and the width from north to south is 240 meters. Its area is more than 110,000 square meters. Behind the Mosque, there is a shaded area of 8 thousand square meters. The Mosque accommodates about 350 thousand worshippers. It has six minarets and an equipped outside broadcasting room for broadcasting the sermon and zuhr and asr prayers on the day of Arafat, directly by satellite.

Jamarat

One of the most prominent landmarks of Mina is the Jamarat or the Jamrah Pillars that are thrown at the Jamarat Bridge. The three Jamarat are located in Mina Valley. Currently, they are within the Jamarat Bridge, which is one of the great achievements of the Kingdom’s Government, in order to organize crowds and provide safety when they go to throw Jamarat. At the beginning of the Day of Nahr, only the seven pebbles of the biggest Jamrah are thrown. During the days of Tashreeq, each Jamrah is thrown at with seven pebbles, from the Smallest Jamrah, the Middle Jamrah, and finally the Biggest Jamrah. A pilgrim can throw Jamarat from any floor of the Jamarat Bridge. It is very important for pilgrims to abide by the schedule of Tafweej (Group Dispatching) set by the organizers for throwing Jamarat and the directions of movement, in order to maintain the safety and security of others. The Jamarat Bridge is one of the pioneering projects that has made a civilizational and engineering leap in the service of pilgrims. The Jamarat Facility consists of four floors, in addition to the ground floor. It is 80 meters wide and has 12 entrances for Jamarat and 12 exits in the four directions, which reduces overcrowding. The Bridge is linked to the pilgrim camps.

Mount Noor (Jabal An-Noor) and the cave of Hira

Mount Noor is the place where Allah honored His Prophet Muhammad (blessings and peace be upon him) with prophethood. This is where he used to spend his time in worship of his Lord and in contemplation of Allah’s creation. In this cave the history of mankind changed when Gabriel conveyed the revelation from Allah to Muhammad (blessings and peace be upon him). The first thing that was revealed was: {Read! In the name of your Lord Who creates. [He] creates man from a clot. Read! And your Lord is the Most Bounteous. It is He Who teaches by the pen. [He] teaches man that which he does not know.} The location of the Cave of Hira’: North of the Grand Mosque, at the top of Jabal An-Noor. The cave is about 4.8 km (3 miles) from Makkah. Elevation: approximately 634 m (2080 ft.) The cave is a natural void with its entrance towards the north, which can accommodate up to 9 sitting people. It is about 1.6 m. Please note: It is neither obligatory nor recommended to visit the cave as it has nothing to do with the Hajj rituals. It should be noted that it is difficult for the elderly and sick to reach the cave.

Services at The Prophets Mosque: Masjid An Nabawi

Zam Zam

Zamzam water is one of Allah’s blessings on Makkah and its visitors. Allah bestowed it on Isma’il, peace be upon him, and his mother Hagar, when Abrahim, peace be upon him, left them. The Zamzam well is located 20 metres east of the Holy Kaaba within the boundaries of the Great Mosque (Makkah Masjid Al-Haram) in Saudi Arabia. The water from the Zamzam well comes from two springs; one located near Mount Abu Qubais and the other from the direction of the Holy Kaaba. Zamzam water is said to have calcium in abundance. Because of this, it affects the human body in a positive way by promoting the growth of bones and providing sufficient vitamins and minerals to cells.

Guide Signs

Wheelchairs for the ill and the elderly

The  Haram recently introduce new self driving electric wheelchairs. There are many options available to arrange a wheelchair for performing Tawaf and Sa’ee in Makkah such as hiring an official or electric wheelchair from Haram or hiring them from unofficial websites outside the Haram. Some hotels might also provide their own.

Escalators

Reportedly 200,000 pilgrims use escalators and elevators per hour in Masjid Al Haram.

Restaurants

Makkah has many traditional food restaurants with various delicious dishes and recipes of mothers and grandmothers inherited throughout the generations.

Step

1


Al Faiha Restaurant - Al Safwah Hotel

Step

2


Mazaq Cafe - Fairmont Clock Royal Tower


Al Faiha Restaurant - Al Safwah Hotel

Al Faiha Restaurant is one of the best buffet restaurants in Makkah overlooking Al Masjid Al Haram. The restaurant is clean and tidy. The dishes are inspired by internatinal as well as Asian cusine. They have rice, fried chicken, salads and many items to eat. They have desserts like cake, jelly, pudding, and many more. The buffet is incredible and the staff are very helpful. The seating area is nice and comfy. Al Faiha is located in Al Safwah Hotel – Tower One overlookingn the King Abdul Aziz Gate of the Grand Mosque in Makkah.

Open Hours:

BREAKFAST: 06:00 AM to 10:00 AM

LUNCH: 12:30 PM to 03:00 PM

DINNER: 07:00 PM to 10:00PM

Al Faiha Restaurant is one of the best buffet restaurants in Makkah overlooking Al Masjid Al Haram. The restaurant is clean and tidy. The dishes are inspired by internatinal as well as Asian cusine. They have rice, fried chicken, salads and many items to eat. They have desserts like cake, jelly, pudding, and many more. The buffet is incredible and the staff are very helpful. The seating area is nice and comfy. Al Faiha is located in Al Safwah Hotel – Tower One overlookingn the King Abdul Aziz Gate of the Grand Mosque in Makkah.

Open Hours:

BREAKFAST: 06:00 AM to 10:00 AM

LUNCH: 12:30 PM to 03:00 PM

DINNER: 07:00 PM to 10:00PM

Mazaq Cafe is a beautiful restaurant which is a part of Makkah’s Royal Clock Tower. Their operating hours are available from 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM and the proce ranges from $12 – $27. Mazaq Express offers conveniently fresh and wholesomepre-packaged meals for those on-the-go.

Hotels

Abraj Al-Bait

Abraj Al-Bait is a luxury hotel destination that receives more than 4 million pilgrims annually. The majestic skyscrapers stand steps away from the first qiblah for Muslims in Al Masjed Al Haram in Makkah, including the tallest clock tower in the world. The towers consist of 76 floors, including 7 luxury five-star hotels, offering a distinctive hospitality experience, with vibrant spiritual views. They include a group of restaurants that serve the best local and international flavors, in addition to a large shopping center that meets all your needs.

Swissotel Makkah

The Swissotel Makkah Hotel is the only property in the Abraj Al Bait Endowment, the famous government-owned complex with seven skyscraper hotels, with a direct entrance through Ajyad Street. This five-star hotel also holds the distinction of being the first Swissotel to be opened in Saudi Arabia and the entire Middle East. When making your Swissotel Makkah booking, you can choose among the hotel’s 1,487 elegant rooms and suites with a modern contemporary design that combines the rich and fascinating Arab and Alpine culture and style. The guest rooms are equipped with flat-screen TVs, ergonomic seats and desks, Wi-Fi access, bathrooms, and prayer mats.

ZamZam Pullman Makkah Hotel

Ideally located in the prime touristic area of Ajyad, ZamZam Pullman Makkah Hotel promises a relaxing and wonderful visit. Featuring a complete list of amenities, guests will find their stay at the property a comfortable one. 24-hour room service, free Wi-Fi in all rooms, daily housekeeping, gift/souvenir shop, 24-hour front desk are on the list of things guests can enjoy. Comfortable guestrooms ensure a good night’s sleep with some rooms featuring facilities such as television LCD/plasma screen, carpeting, linens, mirror, slippers. The hotel offers various recreational opportunities. Discover all Mecca has to offer by making ZamZam Pullman Makkah Hotel your base.

Makkah Clock Royal Tower, A Fairmont Hotel

Mecca’s Fairmont Hotel is in one of the tallest buildings in the world, Makkah Clock Royal Tower. It is near the Masjid Al Haram and the closest hotel to Kaaba, making it a strategic place to stay during Umrah and Hajj. The Fairmont Makkah Clock Royal Tower Hotel features 1618 guest rooms and suites, all thoughtfully and stylishly designed with elegant amenities and come with first-rate services that let you experience relaxation and engage in reflection any time of the day. The guest rooms and suites are designed in tasteful Art Deco style. Each unit is furnished with an LCD TV and a spacious bathroom with a bathtub.

Movenpick Hotel & Residence Hajar Tower Makkah

This five-star luxury hotel is only a few steps away from the holy Kaaba. Covering over 31 floors, the hotel boasts more than a thousand rooms and suites. Your accommodation options include classic rooms, deluxe suites and royal suites. Each room features a contemporary interior design and modern furnishings. It is also furnished with an LCD TV with 80 channels, complimentary Wi-Fi Internet access, coffee- and tea-making facilities and a private bathroom. A Movenpick Hotel & Residence Hajar Tower Makkah booking lets you enjoy 24-hour room service and daily housekeeping.

Elaf Kinda Hotel

This beautiful 5-star hotel is within very close proximity to the Haram and has excellent reported levels of service and hospitality. Their restaurants including Al Diwaniya Restaurant and Al Diyafa Restaurant overlook the Holy Haram and room service is available throughout the day. Services offered by the reception staff at the Elaf Kinda Hotel include a currency exchange and car rental service. There are over 1,000 shops adjacent to the hotel inside and outside the King Abdulaziz stand. The ZamZam well is only 500 yards from the hotel and the Makkah Museum is 2.2 miles.

Al Marwa Rayhaan Hotel by Rotana

Located in Makkah’s Clock Tower, this luxurious hotel offers stunning views of the Kaaba and Masjid Al Haram. The rooms are comfortable and modernly decorated, offering TV with satellite channels, wifi and room service that is that is noted as exemplary by previous occupants. The Al Marwa Rayhaan by Rotana is also adacent to a new commercial complex, which includes a large shopping mall and an air-conditioned mosque. The experience here has driven many loyal customers with the hotel having more repeat guests than most other properties.

Hilton Makkah Convention Hotel

Highly rated for its location, food and comfortable beds, the Hilton Makkah Convention Hotel is only few steps from Al Shubaikah Umrah entrance Gate as well. Other amenities include a prayer room overlooking the Haram, 24-hour room service, and a fitness center. The hotel also offers car hire. Masjid Al Haram is 600 metres from Hilton Makkah Convention Hotel, while Abraj Al Bait is 800 metres away.

Jabal Omar Hyatt Regency Makkah

Jabal Omar Hyatt Regency Makkah is located in the heart of Makkah and spans over 19 floors, featuring 656 generously sized guestrooms, including 25 suites which range in size from 38 to 190 square metres. The hotel combines rich room designs, diverse dining experiences and services such as room service, a separate men’s and women’s state-of-the-art fitness centre and facilities for disabled guests. The closest airport, 75km away is King Abdulaziz Airport and Masjid Al-Haram is positively within walking distance.