# Discover Makkah > Discover Makkah (discovermakkah.sa) is the official smart guide to Makkah's sacred landmarks, cultural heritage, events, and travel services. It helps pilgrims, visitors, and tourists plan a seamless journey to the Holy City of Makkah, Saudi Arabia. The platform is operated by the Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites (RCMC). It provides comprehensive information about religious sites, cultural heritage, dining, shopping, accommodation, experiences, and practical travel planning tools including an interactive map and trip planner. The site is available in Arabic and English. Website: https://www.discovermakkah.sa Arabic: https://www.discovermakkah.sa/ar/ English: https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/ ## About Makkah - [Makkah — The City of Peace](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/about-makkah/makkah-city-of-peace): History of Makkah as the cradle of Islam, birthplace of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), and home to the Sacred Kaaba built by Prophet Abraham. Located in western Saudi Arabia within a valley surrounded by the Sarawat Mountains, about 70 km from the Red Sea coast. - [Culture & Heritage](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/about-makkah/society-and-culture): Makkah's cultural tapestry — the Quraysh dialect, traditional crafts (leatherwork, metalwork, palm weaving), Makkan customs, and the city's role as a center for linguistic and cultural interaction in the Arabian Peninsula. - [Landscapes & Weather](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/about-makkah/nature-and-climate): Makkah's geography and hot desert climate. Temperatures can reach 47°C in summer. Best visiting period is October–February (18–30°C). Flora includes sidr, arak, and ashar trees. Fauna includes the Arabian wolf, sand fox, jerboa, houbara bustard, and partridge. ## Places Worth Visiting - [Top Attractions / Landmarks](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/places-worth-visiting/landmarks): Directory of Makkah's major landmarks including mosques, museums, gardens, and archaeological sites. ### The Grand Mosque & Holy Sites - [Al-Masjid Al-Haram (The Grand Mosque)](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/places-worth-visiting/the-grand-mosque-and-the-holy-sites/al-masjid-al-haram): The holiest site in Islam and the largest mosque in the world. Home to the Sacred Kaaba, the Black Stone, Maqam Ibrahim, Hijr Ismail, the Yamani Corner, and the mountains of Safa and Marwa. The destination for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims worldwide. - [Namira Mosque](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/places-worth-visiting/the-grand-mosque-and-the-holy-sites/namira-mosque): The second largest mosque in Makkah after the Grand Mosque, accommodating over 400,000 worshippers across 110,000 m², located on the plain of Arafat where the Prophet delivered his Farewell Sermon. - [Jamarat Bridge](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/places-worth-visiting/the-grand-mosque-and-the-holy-sites/jamarat-bridge): One of the largest engineering projects in Makkah — over 950 m long and 80 m wide with multiple levels, designed to facilitate the stoning ritual during Hajj. - [Mashear Arafat](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/places-worth-visiting/the-grand-mosque-and-the-holy-sites/mashear-arafat): The sacred plain of Arafat where pilgrims gather on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah, the most important day of Hajj. - [Muzdalifah](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/places-worth-visiting/the-grand-mosque-and-the-holy-sites/muzdalifah): The sacred area between Arafat and Mina where pilgrims spend the night after the Day of Arafah, mentioned in the Holy Quran. ### Stories from the Heart of Makkah - [The First House of Worship](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/places-worth-visiting/stories-from-the-heart-of-mecca/first-house-of-worship): The story of the Sacred Kaaba as the first house of worship established for mankind. - [Jabal Al-Nour & Cave of Hira](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/places-worth-visiting/stories-from-the-heart-of-mecca/mount-al-nour-and-cave-of-hira): The Mountain of Light where Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) received the first revelation of the Quran from the Angel Jibreel in the Cave of Hira. - [Cave & Mount Thawr](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/places-worth-visiting/stories-from-the-heart-of-mecca/mount-and-cave-thawr): The cave where the Prophet and Abu Bakr took refuge during their migration (Hijra) to Madinah. - [Mosque of the Jinn](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/places-worth-visiting/stories-from-the-heart-of-mecca/mosque-of-the-jinn): A historic mosque in the Al-Hajjun area east of Al-Ma'la Cemetery, named after the place where the Prophet met with the jinn. - [Wadi Al-Asilah](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/places-worth-visiting/stories-from-the-heart-of-mecca/al-aseela): A historic valley on the ancient Iraqi pilgrimage route featuring over 60 Islamic inscriptions carved into rock and historical wells. - [Ayn Zubaydah](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/places-worth-visiting/stories-from-the-heart-of-mecca/ain-zubaydah): A historic water project commissioned by Zubaida bint Jaafar in 194 AH (809 CE) to supply water to Makkah's pilgrims. - [Al-Hudaybiyah](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/places-worth-visiting/stories-from-the-heart-of-mecca/al-hudaibiyah): A historic area 22 km west of the Sacred Mosque, site of the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah, with a historic well dating to pre-Islamic times. - [Masjid Al-Ji'ranah](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/places-worth-visiting/stories-from-the-heart-of-mecca/al-jaranah-mosque): A historic mosque connected to significant events in the Prophet's biography. ### Museums & Exhibitions - [The Holy Quran Museum](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/places-worth-visiting/landmarks/the-holy-quran-exhibition): An immersive museum exploring the history of the Quran's revelation, compilation, and dissemination, showcasing the art of Arabic calligraphy. - [Exhibition of the Two Holy Mosques Architecture](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/places-worth-visiting/landmarks/exhibition-of-the-architecture-of-the-two-holy-mosques): Seven halls tracing the architectural evolution of the Sacred Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque from early Islamic eras to modern expansions. Includes a Zamzam Hall with the well's ancient mouth and geological structure. Located 10 km from the Haram. - [Clock Tower Museum](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/places-worth-visiting/landmarks/clock-tower-museum): Located in Abraj Al-Bait (the third tallest building in the world), focusing on the evolution of timekeeping. Includes observation areas with panoramic views of the Holy Mosque. - [Harf Al-Oulain Museum](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/places-worth-visiting/landmarks/harf-al-oulain-museum): Over 3,000 artifacts including everyday tools, ancient weapons, and historical models from the Makkah region. - [Hira Cultural District](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/places-worth-visiting/landmarks/hara-cultural-district): At the foot of Jabal Al-Nour, featuring the Revelation Exhibition — a first-of-its-kind museum narrating the story of the Quran's descent. - [Abu Bakr Al-Amoudi Museum](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/places-worth-visiting/landmarks/abu-bakr-al-amoudi-museum): A heritage museum preserving Makkah's cultural legacy. - [Al Aseel House Museum](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/places-worth-visiting/landmarks/beit-al-asil-museum): A museum showcasing authentic Saudi heritage and traditional Makkan life. - [King Abdullah Zamzam Water Project](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/places-worth-visiting/landmarks/king-abdullah-zamzam-water-project): Located in the Kuday area, one of the Kingdom's most significant modern initiatives for the care and distribution of blessed Zamzam water. ### Mosques - [At-Tan'im Mosque (Sayyida Aisha Mosque)](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/places-worth-visiting/landmarks/al-taneem-mosque-(lady-aisha)): The closest miqat (station for assuming Ihram) for those performing Umrah from within Makkah, historically significant as the location where Sayyida Aisha assumed Ihram. - [Al-Mash'ar Al-Haram Mosque](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/places-worth-visiting/landmarks/al-mash-ar-al-haram-mosque): Located in the sacred Muzdalifah area between Arafat and Mina, where pilgrims pause after sunset on the Day of Arafah. Mentioned in the Holy Quran. - [Masjid Al-Khayf](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/places-worth-visiting/landmarks/al-khaif-mosque): Located in Mina at the foot of Mount Al-Khayf, about 550 m southeast of the First Jamarah. A key mosque for pilgrims during Hajj. ### Parks & Gardens - [Arak Park](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/places-worth-visiting/landmarks/arak-park): Green space near Aisha Al-Rajhi Mosque with expansive grounds and modern facilities for relaxation and outdoor enjoyment. - [King Abdullah Park](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/places-worth-visiting/landmarks/king-abdullah-park): One of Makkah's largest public parks with open areas, walking and jogging tracks, and children's play zones. ## Activities - [Events](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/activities/events): Calendar of religious and cultural events, artistic festivals, folk performances, live shows, and sports competitions. - [Makkah Winter Hills](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/activities/events/makkah-winter-hills): Open-air winter entertainment destination with family activities, restaurants, and cafés overlooking the mountains. - [Winter Hills Season](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/activities/events/winter-hills-season): Theater performances, roaming characters, children's workshops, and live shows. - [Makkah Atarick Exhibition](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/activities/events/atarek-makkah-exhibition): Heritage shops, authentic restaurants, competitions, and artistic performances. - [Atareek Makkah Exhibition](https://discovermakkah.sa/en/activities/events/atareek-makkak-exhibition): Additional heritage exhibition celebrating Makkah's traditions. - [Egyptian Products Exhibition](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/activities/events/egyptian-products-exhibition): International product showcase. - [National and Consumer Industries Exhibition](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/activities/events/national-and-consumer-industries-exhibition): Industry exhibition. - [Umm Al-Qura University Winter Event](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/activities/events/umm-al-qura-winter-festival): Community winter event at the university campus with knowledge exchange, entertainment, and cultural engagement. - [Ain Zubaidah Event](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/activities/events/ain-zubaidah-waist-event): Event highlighting civilizational heritage with historical, cultural, and recreational activities at the historic Ain Zubaydah site. ### Experiences & Trails - [Authentic Saudi Hospitality Experience](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/activities/experiences-and-packages/trails/traditional-saudi-experience): 3-hour heritage experience including traditional coffee and dates, authentic attire for photos, personalized Arabic calligraphy, and a curated meal with Saudi desserts. - [Chefs Street (Taste Avenue)](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/activities/experiences-and-packages/trails/taste-avenue): Culinary trail offering authentic Makkan specialties and international cuisines. - [Al-Hudaybiyah Route](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/activities/experiences-and-packages/suggested-routes/al-hudaibiyah-route): A historical and spiritual route for cultural immersion. ### Dining - [Café & Restaurants](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/activities/taste-mecca/restaurants-and-cafes): Directory of dining options from elegant restaurants overlooking the Holy Mosque to traditional eateries in old quarters, featuring Hijazi cuisine and global flavors. - [Abu Osaid Restaurant](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/activities/taste-mecca/restaurants-and-cafes/abu-asid-restaurant): Authentic Saudi dining with traditional dishes like Areeka, Hanini, Mandi, and Kabsa. - [Sahtein Restaurant](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/activities/taste-mecca/restaurants-and-cafes/sahteen-restaurant): Authentic Lebanese cuisine in a refined ambiance. - [Al-Majlis Restaurant](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/activities/taste-mecca/restaurants-and-cafes/al-majlis-restaurant): Mediterranean and international cuisine at Raffles Makkah Palace with views of the Holy Mosque. - [Al-Shurfa Restaurant](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/activities/taste-mecca/restaurants-and-cafes/alshurfa-restaurant): Arabic and international cuisine on the 11th floor of Abraj Al Bait with panoramic views of the Kaaba. - [Kraweeta Lounge](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/activities/taste-mecca/restaurants-and-cafes/kruite-restaurant): Authentic Hijazi charm with local and international cuisine. - [Andalus Restaurant](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/activities/taste-mecca/restaurants-and-cafes/andalus-restaurant): Dining experience with diverse culinary offerings. - [Al-Qadri Restaurant](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/activities/taste-mecca/restaurants-and-cafes/al-qadri-restaurant): Specialist in masoub dishes with creative and diverse variations, operating since 2009. - [Ramzi Al-Harbi for Mero Kebab](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/activities/taste-mecca/restaurants-and-cafes/ramzi-al-harbi-for-mero-kebab): Popular kebab restaurant. ### Shopping - [Makkah Shopping Hubs](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/activities/shopping-in-mecca/list-of-popular-commercial-markets): From historic souks rich with incense, perfumes, and handcrafted treasures to modern malls with global brands. - [Makkah Originals](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/activities/shopping-in-mecca/authentic-makkah-creations): Authentic Makkah-made products and traditional creations. - [Al-Otaibiyah Market](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/activities/shopping-in-mecca/list-of-popular-commercial-markets/al-otaibiya-market): One of the busiest traditional markets — textiles, abayas, perfumes, and gold jewelry at affordable prices. - [City Center Mall](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/activities/shopping-in-mecca/list-of-popular-commercial-markets/city-center-mall): Modern shopping and entertainment destination. - [Alkhalil Market — Jabal Omar](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/activities/shopping-in-mecca/list-of-popular-commercial-markets/alkhalil-market-jabal-omar): Shopping near the Grand Mosque, offering souvenirs and products for pilgrims. - [Azizia Market](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/activities/shopping-in-mecca/list-of-popular-commercial-markets/azizia-market): One of the largest and most diverse markets in Makkah, known for variety and affordable products. - [Al-Kaakia Wholesale Market](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/activities/shopping-in-mecca/list-of-popular-commercial-markets/alkaekia-wholesale-market): One of Makkah's largest wholesale markets with competitive bulk pricing. ## Plan Your Trip - [Trip Planner](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/trip-planner): Interactive tool to create custom itineraries by entering trip dates, with editable day-by-day planning. - [Interactive Map](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/plan-your-trip/discover-your-destination/interactive-map): Smart map for exploring landmarks, routes, hotels, restaurants, popular markets, and nearby services across the Holy City. - [Tour Guides](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/plan-your-trip/discover-your-destination/tour-guides): Professional certified guide services for different areas and trails in Makkah. - [Services](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/plan-your-trip/discover-your-destination/services): Visitor services including the Mzar digital platform for flexible scheduling, guided tours, and smart technology. Golf cart services in the Holy Mosque. Electronic educational service via QR code for religious information during prayer times. - [Getting Around](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/plan-your-trip/at-a-glance/getting-around-makkah): Transportation options including 12 public bus routes (7 local / 172 km, 5 express / 103 km) with 400 buses and 438 stops; the Haramain High-Speed Railway (Makkah–Madinah, 450 km, ~2 hours); Makkah Taxi smart app; and the Al Mashaaer Al Mugaddassah Metro Line (Mina–Arafat–Muzdalifah during Hajj). - [Language & Religion](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/plan-your-trip/at-a-glance/language-and-religion): Arabic is the official language; English is widely understood at airports, hotels, and shopping centers. - [Visitor Care & Hotlines](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/plan-your-trip/at-a-glance/visitor-call-center-hotlines): Healthcare, emergency contacts, and visitor support information. - [Tourist Code of Conduct](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/plan-your-trip/at-a-glance/tourist-code-of-conduct): Guidelines for visitors including modest attire requirements. - [Health Care](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/plan-your-trip/at-a-glance/health-care): Healthcare facilities and services available to visitors. ## Accommodation - [Accommodation](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/accommodation): Hotel and apartment listings near Al-Masjid Al-Haram, from luxury hotels to comfortable serviced apartments. - [Conrad Jabal Omar Hotel](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/accommodation/conrad-jabal-omar-hotel): Luxurious modern design near Al-Masjid Al-Haram with fine dining and spa services. - [Jumeirah Jabal Omar Hotel](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/accommodation/jumeirah-jabal-omar-hotel): Premium hospitality near the Grand Mosque. - [Address Jabal Omar Hotel](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/accommodation/address-jabal-omar): Upscale hotel with modern amenities near the Haram. - [Anjum Hotel Makkah](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/accommodation/anjum-makkah-hotel): Comfortable hotel near Al-Masjid Al-Haram. - [Al Kiswah Towers Hotel](https://www.discovermakkah.sa/en/accommodation/al-kiswa-towers-hotel): Rooms and suites near Al-Masjid Al-Haram with modern amenities and dining. ## Optional - [Royal Commission for Makkah City (RCMC)](https://www.rcmc.gov.sa/en-us/discover-makkah): The parent organization overseeing Makkah's development and the Discover Makkah initiative. - [Visit Saudi — Makkah](https://www.visitsaudi.com/en/makkah): Saudi Arabia's official tourism portal page for Makkah. - [Nusuk — Makkah & Madinah](https://umrah.nusuk.sa/MakkahAndMadinah): Official Umrah and pilgrimage booking platform.