Schengen is the EU passport-free zone that encompasses the majority of European nations. It is the world’s largest free travel zone. A Schengen Visa is a short-term Visa that allows its bearer to travel freely across the Schengen area. Austria, Germany, France, Greece, Iceland, Hungary, the Czech Republic, Belgium, Estonia, Denmark, Latvia, Finland, Liechtenstein, Italy, Luxembourg, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Malta, Poland, Norway, Slovakia, Portugal, Sweden, Spain, Slovenia, and Switzerland are among the 26 countries that makes the Schengen area. However, Saudi Arabia’s officials have said that holders of a Schengen Visa must first reach the issuing nation before entering Saudi Arabia to be eligible to enter the KSA.

Umrah 2022

In essence, the Umrah means ‘a visit’ to the Holy Kaaba (the Sacred House of God) in Arabic. It can be conducted by any Muslim at any time of year unlike Hajj. Hajj is an annual pilgrimage to Makkah that must be performed between the first ten days of the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah. The primary goal of Umrah is to purify the soul of its previous misdeeds and sins. Annual Umrah restores faith in Allah and help a Muslim to lead on the path of truth. Umrah can be performed more than once in a Muslim’s lifetime.

Schengen visa for Umrah rules

Saudi Arabia also allows holders of valid visas from the United States and the United Kingdom to enter the country. The new rules will benefit pilgrims with an up-to-date Schengen/UK/US visa. However, Schengen, UK, or US Visas holders must obey other rules and regulations before entering Saudi Arabia. Saudi authorities have especially stressed the need to adhere to public health safety procedures, including always wearing a face mask. Further due to increasing queries on Umrah during Ramadan, it becomes more important to follow these safety instructions at all times,

Pilgrims who do not hold Schengen, UK, or US Visas must apply for e-Umrah Visa through Digital Visa App for Hajj and Umrah services. It applies to individuals coming from outside the Kingdom. Pilgrims must submit their biometric details into the App, and that is it, they have an e-visa and are ready to begin their spiritual trip. To undertake Umrah, all Muslims must arrange an appointment using the Eatmarna app, according to the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.

Umrah appointments procedure

For booking Umrah appointments, the Ministry has established a step-by-step guide:

• Obtain a Visa to enter the Kingdom.
• When registering, double-check the validity period of the Visa.
• Make an appointment using the Eatmarna App.

If tourists do not enter the Kingdom within six hours of making their Umrah appointment, their Umrah permit would be automatically get invalid, according to the Ministry.

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Muslims throughout the world were obliged to celebrate Ramadan under lockdown two years ago, due to devastating consequences of COVID-19 pandemic’s early phases. As a result, Muslims were denied the opportunity to spend time with their extended families and participate in the practice of breaking the fast together. Further, pilgrimage to Makkah and Madinah for the pilgrims were also restricted. However, in 2022, many protocols will be removed, including social-distancing rules and travel prohibitions.

Gradually, everybody is returning to normal day life. Consequently, many Muslims throughout the world will be able to spend Ramadan in the manner they want for the first time since 2019. The relaxation of COVID-19 limitations could not have come at a better moment for Saudi Arabia’s residents and citizens as Ramadan approaches. Due to lifting restrictions, Ramadan festival will give residents and tourists in Makkah an enjoyable atmosphere. The Ramadan Nights Festival will run from 10 pm to 2 am each day between April 5th and April 21st. Ramadan Nights Festival in Makkah will offer a golden opportunity for Muslims in Saudi Arabia to socialize after a two-year hiatus.

Sections of Ramadan Nights Festival

Ramadan Nights Festival will feature several sections hosting various events.

1. Theater Corner: It will be a specialized space for fostering diversity in the form of art.

2. Restaurants and Cafés: This corner will serve sumptuous Arabian cuisines.

3. Leisure Area: Leisure area will be in a historic region with holy sites. It will have a high-end historical restaurant that serves breakfast and suhoor.

4. Photographic Exhibition: It will consist of a photo gallery dedicated to paintings done by new painters.

5. The Plaza Area: It features lighting displays, shops, a local market, and an art market for residents. Cooking contests will also be held in Plaza area.

6. The Sidewalk Area: It is dedicated to sports events and bicycle rentals.

Meanwhile, Saudi Arabian officials have opened doors at the Grand Mosque of Makkah to make it easier for visitors and worshipers to enter and depart.

Ramadan month 2022

The first day of Ramadan was observed by the majority of the world’s 2 billion Muslims on April 2nd (Saturday), following the official sighting of the new crescent moon. Astronomers from Majmaah University’s Astronomy Observatory Department spotted the crescent announcing the start of Ramadan on Friday near Hautat Sudair in Riyadh.

Ramadan in 2022 commenced on the evening of Saturday, April 2nd, and will last 30 days, ending at sundown on Sunday, May 1st. The Saudi Government and local authorities are working towards making Ramadan a memorable month for every one this year. The launch of Ramadan Nights Festival will attract a lot of Muslims in Makkah during Ramadan.

Suggested Read: Ramadan 2022: Dates, Traditions, Significance And Guidelines

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Key ideas discussed to revive Umrah, Hajj

An investor, Ahmed Bajaiffer said, with the expansion of cooperation, supervisory tasks can be allocated to various airport reception firms, offence monitoring firms, surveillance firms and more, which were previously appointed to the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (MoHU). Another idea proposed was to make a sovereign fund for Umrah and Hajj Development that the state will monitor.

“The fund will support the private sector’s initiatives in exchange for investment partnerships that manage all the sector’s details,” said Bajaiffer. Further, a central system and various subsidiaries owned publicly and privately will help conduct Umrah services uninterrupted during the pandemic and expansion of Masjid Al-Haram.

“There is more leeway now for ideas and innovation to provide better services, based on a completely nationalized sector,” he added. Further, he said, “the stronger the industries in the Hajj and Umrah system are, the more positive the outcome.”

In the meeting, the authorities and investors reached a consensus that they will have to identify the areas responsible for the breach of confidence to enhance the services. After identifying the worst-affected area, it will be easy to restore the confidence in services offered and revive Umrah and Hajj.

Insights shared by Moshin Tuttla, the Head of World Hajj and Umrah Convention

Moshin Tuttla, the head of World Hajj and Umrah Convention, said, “Before COVID-19, we were witnessing a perpetual compound 10 percent annual growth in pilgrim numbers; with recorded figures estimated around 18 million Umrah pilgrimages in 2019, successfully growing in line with the Vision 2030 outlined forecasted figures. The decimation of pilgrimage numbers imposed by COVID-19 and its variants has crippled the underpinning ecosystem that has been supporting the smooth operation of the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages.”

“Nothing could be further from the truth; the objective is to ensure that the Hajj and Umrah ecosystem is self-sustainable with a reduced dependency on financial subsidy provided by declining oil revenues. It is about creating a model where the experience expectation of the pilgrimage remains in line with the pilgrim expectation and supported by its own performance as a sector,” he added.

Some of the factors barring the expected growth are chain debts, confidence breaches in the ecosystem of Hajj and Umrah, loss of talents from different countries, and uncertain times during the pandemic. “Having identified core challenges restricting a bounce back by the private sector, we can begin to devise practical strategies to help rejuvenate the Hajj and Umrah sectors,” added Moshin.

“As an ecosystem, we need to identify where all the breaches of confidence remain and how to restore confidence, attract new investors into operating core services or provide bailout packages so the worst-affected sectors can restart,” said Tuttla. Moreover, he addressed the need to train and introduce new staff for quality and safe Umrah and Hajj experience.

To increase the entry of more pilgrims, unification of the private and public sector will help develop a successful self-sustaining ecosystem adhering to Vision 2030 and also revive Umrah and Hajj.

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In an exclusive interview with Big Project ME, Yasser Abuateek, the CEO of UAQ, said, “The project began with the issuance of Royal Decree no. 6258/MB stipulating the development of the King Abdulaziz Road in Makkah. After which, Umm Al Qura for Development and Construction (UAQ) began developing the project by surveying the properties of the six neighbourhoods located on the project land, paying compensations, and starting the infrastructure works.”

Umm Alqura for Development and Construction (UAQ) is developing this urban development project, which is a closed joint-stock company with investors like the Public Investment Fund (PIF), the Public Pension Agency, and Ministry of Finance. Yasser Abuateek, addresses the project as ‘Masar’ as it communicates the concept of comprehensive mobility, which is a primary pillar of the project.

Flaunting an array of dynamic features and capabilities, this massive urban development project aims to improve the quality of life of Makkah’s residents. Also it will enhance the Hajj and Umrah journey of the pilgrims. It facilitates the residents’ and pilgrims’ access to the Holy Mosque, in line with the kingdom leadership’s directives to attract 30 million pilgrims by 2030.

“The idea was to create a destination that considers the urban and economic ecosystem, utilising an urban plan and design, and providing services that ensure the smooth movement of visitors for distinctive and diverse attractions experiences that take into account the culture and authenticity of Makkah Al-Mukarramah,” he explained.

Key features of Masar Urban Development Project

The urban destination features several green landscaped areas and numerous cultural, social, and recreational amenities. Keeping in line with the kingdom’s Quality of Life Program, modern transportation methods and facilities are being developed continuously. It will enhance the lifestyle of the individuals in Makkah. The project will provide a number of investment opportunities in several sectors like hospitality, accommodation, food and beverages, and transport.

Justifying its name, this urban destination features several pathways, such as a 3.65-km-long pedestrian boulevard located in the middle of the primary 80 m-wide two-way roads. The two pathways do not intersect at any point, becoming the Holy Mosque plazas’ natural extension. Masar also consists of a plethora of tunnels, commercial centers, hotels, residential units, and car parks. In addition, there are several open public spaces as well as cultural, retail, and government centers.

In the interview with Big Project ME, Abuateek also explained, “The core elements of Masar are the main pathway extending from the western entrance of Makkah, through Prince Mohammed bin Salman Road to the Holy Mosque Plaza, in addition to other pathways, such as the pedestrian boulevard, the metro, and the rapid bus transit network.”

Around 65% of the infrastructure work was completed by May 2021. According to Abuateek, there are a total of 205 development plots spanning across an area of 690,000 sq m. UAQ is aiming to build 13,000 residential units and 38,000 hotel rooms through long-term investment channels. These include 59 residential buildings, 58 hotels, 82 hotel apartments, and numerous commercial centers.

Masar Development Project: Vision & Opportunities

With an array of new innovations and advancements, Masar will meet all the evolving technological and communication needs. Featuring a strategic location in the heart of Makkah and adjacent to the holy Haram, it becomes a hotspot for attractive investment opportunities. The development of the destination is taking place by keeping in mind the potential growth in the demand for accommodation and transport services required by the vast number of visitors for bettering the quality of life in Makkah.

In the interview, Abuateek said, “We are currently in the ideal time to invest in the hospitality, accommodation, and mobility sectors, with an increased opportunity to offer new living concepts that cater to the next generation of pilgrims and visitors. This segment, and according to several studies, look for a higher standard of quality and environmentally friendly concepts and buildings.”

With Masar entering the limelight, the destination has successfully captured the interest of several world-renowned investors. Reputable international hospitality companies like Grand Hyatt, Hilton, Kempinski, Marriott, and Taj have already started planning the implementation of their projects here. As per the initial plans for Masar, the investment opportunities will be effective in 2022. However, owing to the piling interest of those looking to invest in Masar, UAQ has preponed the decided date by signing memorandums of understanding with many investors.

Abuateek further said, “Our focus is on the added value that the investor can provide in these sectors. Therefore, we are keen on accommodating such added value by building more flexible and sustainable investment models that rely on innovation, whether in partnerships, long-term rentals, or other arrangements, in a way that benefits all parties involved.”

Towards the end of his interview with Big Project ME, Abuateek expressed his full confidence that everything will proceed according to the plan to enhance the quality of life in Makkah. He gave assurance that the project is in full compliance with the precautionary and preventive measures issued by the relevant institutions.

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Situated around 70 km southeast of Jeddah, Makkah is the holiest city in Islam. It is well known for the Muslim pilgrimage – Hajj and Umrah. Millions of pilgrims visit Makkah every year to complete Hajj and Umrah. The project aims to assist in managing the large number of pilgrims and travelers reaching the city round the year. 

The Thakher Makkah Megaproject & KSA’s Vision 2030

Thakher Makkah megaproject boasts numerous options for lodgings, homes and shops. With the kickoff of Q4 2022, the new hotels will be one more addition to the current portfolio of the megaproject.

Elie Younes, Executive Vice President & Chief Development Officer EMEA, Radisson Hotel Group, says: “We are delighted to announce this portfolio of three new hotels, as it not only accelerates our growing presence in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, but also reaffirms our commitment towards the country and its future. The Thakher Makkah megaproject is designed to attract millions of pilgrims every year and will positively contribute to the country’s ambitious plan that aims to host 30 million Umrah visitors, as well as, hosting 6 million Hajj pilgrims by the year 2030. We remain committed to the country’s Vision 2030 and their initiatives to significantly increase the contribution of leisure and business tourism to the country’s economy. We would like to thank our business partners for their trust in our brands and teams as we look forward to an exciting and rewarding journey.”

Key Highlights of Radisson’s Three New Hotels in Makkah

The Radisson Hotel Makkah Thakher City will have 440 rooms and 206 ostensible facilities, a visitor bistro, and an all-day open restaurant. In addition, the lodging will have separate women’s and men’s rec centers for relaxation. It will have five gathering rooms and three rooms for special occasions. Highlighting 203 rooms, Radisson Makkah Thakher City Tower West Park Inn will offer its guests with a visitor bistro and an eatery. Finally, the new Park Inn by Radisson Makkah Thakher City Tower East will have 143 rooms, an eating region and a parlor.

The new lodgings by Radisson Hotel Group will be important increments to the already blossomed travel industry of Saudi Arabia. Further, it will help the Hajj and Umrah pilgrims to remain well-rested. The inns will have friendly staff, helping the travelers with zeroing in on their journey. Additionally, this will remove the weight of the consistently increasing pilgrims from hoteliers.

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History of Masjid-e Nabawi – From the beginning

When Sahl and Suhayl came to know that Prophet Muhammed desired to procure their land for erecting a mosque over it, the two orphans volunteered to give it to him as a gift. As they were orphans, Prophet Muhammed desired to pay them; Abu Ayyub al-Ansari became the donor of the land and paid the price, and Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) contributed his efforts during the construction of the mosque. It took seven months and was erected next to his house where he resided after his migration to Madinah, 622 CE.

Initially, it was an open-air building that was utilised as a community center, court of law and spiritual school. A minbar or raised platform was constructed for the people who edify people about Quran, and for the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) to give the sermon on Fridays. The mosque was expanded and decorated by the succeeding Islamic rulers and entitled the walls, doors and minarets after their ancestors.

Under the Prophet & the Rashidun (622-660 CE)

History of Masjid-e Nabawi saw many structural additions over the years. Built in 622 CE, the three gates— the Gate of mercy, the Gate of Gabriel, and the Gate of women—were located at the south, west and east of the mosque, respectively. At that time, the qibla wall faced northwise to Jerusalem and al-Suffah was next to the northern wall. In 628 CE, the mosque was expanded after the battle of Khaybar. Three rows of columns were built alongside the west wall, which became the place of worship.

Although during the reign of the first Rashidun caliph Abu Bakr, the mosque remained unmodified, it was altered by the second Rashidun caliph Umar. To expand the mosque, all the houses except those of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)’s wives were dismantled. To construct the walls, sun-dried mud bricks were used along with steering pebbles for the floor. Further, three more entrance gates were added to the mosque.

In 649 CE, the mosque was demolished by the third Rashidun caliph Uthman and a new rectangular-shaped mosque was built with stones, iron clamps and teakwood, facing Kaaba.

Under subsequent Islamic reigns (660-1517 CE)

In 707 CE, the mosque was refurbished by Umayyad caliph al-Walid and a wall was built to segregate the mosque and houses of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)’s wives. The mosque was erected in a trapezoid shape, connecting its northern part with the sanctuary. Further, the mosque was stretched to the north by Abbasid caliph al-Mahdi and his name was engraved on the panel of Masjid-e Nabawi. The enclosure of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)’s tomb was lined with marbles by Al-Mutawakkil and in the 1470s CE, a dome of stones was built over the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)’s grave.

During The Ottoman Rule

During the time of Suleiman the Magnificent, the east and west walls of Masjid-e Nabawi were rebuilt, a new steel-covered dome was placed on the tomb of the prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and the “Gate of Mercy” was resuscitated. In 1817, the construction of al-Rawdah al-Mutaharah (in Arabic) or purified residence was completed by Mahmud ll. In 1837 CE, as the dome of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was painted green, it was named as “Green Dome”. The next successor rebuilt and expanded the mosque with red stone bricks. The Masjid-e Nabawi was reorganised, except for the tomb of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), the three altars and the pulpit.

Masjid-e Nabawi under The King’s rule

In the 1800s CE, Saud bin Abdul-Aziz and his followers knocked down almost every tomb and dome except the Green dome, in Madinah. The ornaments and gold on the Green dome were stripped off; It is believed that, either they were unable to demolish it because of its hard structure or because yonks ago, Ibn Abd al-Wahhab wrote that he didn’t desire to see the dome demolished. After 400 years, the ottoman rule came to an end and was followed by Saudi rule.

During the Saudi rule, the Masjid-e Nabawi underwent several modifications. In 1951, as per the king’s order, places around the mosque were demolished to expand the prayer hall of Masjid-e Nabawi. Apace northeast and northwest of the mosque, new minarets were fabricated and the previous ones were recast in Mamluk revival style. To lodge religious readings and the Quran, a library was erected along the western wall.

In 1985, the mosque was again expanded and places around the mosque were demolished. In 1992, escalators and 27 courtyards were added to the Masjid-e Nabawi. To modernise and stretch the area of the mosque, a $6 billion project was proclaimed in September 2012. For this project, hotels on the eastern side, houses and utilities were demolished.

Considered as the second most holiest site in Islam, Masjid-e Nabawi is among the top tourist destinations in Madinah. It has a grand structure and is the second largest Mosque in Saudi Arabia. The mosque is third known mosque built in Islam where Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is buried. Thus, it is the prime site for pilgrims coming to Saudi Arabia for the pilgrimage of Hajj and Umrah.

Suggested Read: The 3 Holy Mosques Tour – Masjid Al Haram, Masjid Al-Nabawi, Masjid Al Aqsa

FAQs about History of Masjid-e Nabawi

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What is Ziyarat meaning? How to perform Ziyarat?

Ziyarat is an Arabic word, meaning “visit” and is used in reference to a form of pilgrimage associated with the Holy Prophet Muhammad, his family, companions and descendants, along with respected figures of Islam like Sufi saints, prophets and scholars. Ziyarat is all about visiting and speaking to Allah, through his messenger, for travellers to connect with him and ask for his blessings. You should consider this act to be a virtue and honour, and when you are in the city of the Prophet, practice the following dos and don’ts.

1. Do not engage yourself in any other matter except worship.
2. Have patience and do not be arrogant or seek popularity.
3. Read Salawat (a special Arabic phrase containing salutation upon the Prophet) as many times as you can. The more you read, the more rewarding it will be.
4. Foster the spirit and passion. Until the time you reach Madinah, read books or poetry of the Prophet.
5. After reaching, it is recommended to shower and wear new clothes before going to the Prophet’s Mosque.
6. Give something in charity (no matter how little) before entering the mosque as Allah sees your intentions and not the amount you’re donating.
7. Before entering the mosque, if the obligatory prayers have not begun, then go to the Rawdha (Garden of Paradise) and offer 2 rakahs in greeting (somewhere between the pulpit and the Prophet’s tomb).
8. Approach the tomb and stand at the head side with your back to the Qiblah. Stand in front of it and bow your head with humility and respect for the Prophet.
9. Pay your greetings at the Prophet Muhammad’s tomb by saying, “Assallamu Alaikum Ayyuhan Nabiyyu Rahmatullohi WA Barakatuh” and greet him on the behalf of your absent loved ones. Then, move forward towards the tomb of Abu Bakar and Umar Bin Khattab.
10. While leaving the city of Madinah, it is advised to offer Sunnah prayer for parting and wish to visit the holy city again in the future.

Ziyarat Guide for Makkah and Madinah

Ziyarat Guide Makkah

Makkah has been called by five names in the Quran: Bakkah, Makkah, Ummul-Qura, Al-Balad and Al-Qaryah. It is not only the birthplace of Prophet Muhammad but also it is the place where he was blessed with his first revelation by Allah and commenced his Prophethood. Every year, pilgrims visit Makkah and Madinah to perform Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages. They also tour around the cities to get a deeper knowledge about Islam and the life of the Prophet and his companions. Some important ziyarat places in Makkah are as follows:

1. The Holy Kaaba

Also known as The House of God, Kabba is the first house built for worshipping Allah. This small and cubed building has a big impact on the history of Islam and Muslims. Every year, millions of pilgrims come to Kaaba to perform the rites of Umrah and Hajj and seek spiritual guidance from Allah. It is the most important site to feature in any ziyarat guide for Makkah and Madinah.

2. Cave of Hira

Located about 2 miles from Makkah, cave of Hira stands on top of Jabal al-Nour Mountain. This site is famous for being the place where the Prophet Mohammad was blessed with his first revelation from Allah and where the Quran was first revealed to him. The Prophet used to visit this cave whenever he was in search of solitude and spent quite a time in meditation and deep thinking.

3. Jannatul Mualla

This site has a significant place in the history of Islam as it is the graveyard where Hazrat Khadija, the first wife of Prophet Muhammad, along with some other family members is buried. Pilgrims visit this site during their Hajj and Umrah pilgrimage to pay their respects to the Prophet’s family. It is a 10-minute drive from the Grand Mosque in Makkah.

4. Cave of Thawr

This is the cave where Prophet Muhammad, along with his companions, took refuge after being targeted and chased by the tribe of Quraysh. This site holds a special place in the hearts of Muslims all around the world.

5. Jabal-Ar-Rahmah

This site is hard to overlook when you’re organising your ziyarat trip to the city. It is also known as Mount Arafat or the Mount of Mercy and is the place where the Prophet delivered his last sermon after completing Hajj. An annual Hajj gathering takes place just below this rocky height. Standing here is an essential part of the Hajj pilgrimage, and it is considered invalid if a pilgrim fails to reach here.

6.  Jamarat and Mina Jamarat

This site is where a lot of hajj pilgrims spend the nights in the month of Dhul Hijjah. It is located 4.3 miles east of Masjid-al-Haram. The three Jamarat pillars are situated in the area of Mina in the Jamarat Valley. The pilgrims sacrifice animals and throw pebbles at the three walls during Eid ul-Adah.

7. Masjid Aisha

Masjid e Taneem or Aisha Mosque is a known destination among pilgrims. This is the site where the beloved wife of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), Aisha prepared to enter into the state of Ihram. This mosque is a miqat for preparing oneself for Ihram and is well equipped with facilities like bathing areas and washrooms.

8. Masjid Jinn

Masjid Haras or Masjid Jinn is built on the spot where Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) made a line for Abdullah bin Mas’ood who kept him company after being commanded to recite the Quran to the Jinn. This masjid is also called the Mosque of Guards and Mosque of Allegiance as the guards of the city patrol up to this point. It is situated near Jannat al-Mu’alla.

9. Masjid al-Khaif

Situated at the bottom of a mountain in the south of Mina, this masjid is built at the spot where not only Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) but many other Prophets have performed Salah.

Ziyarat Guide Madinah

‘The Enlightened City’, Madinah (originally known as Yathrib) is the second holiest place after Makkah in Islam. The city gave the Prophet Muhammad and his companion’s refuge while migrating from Makkah. It is also the burial place of the Prophet, and pilgrims travel to the city during/after their Umrah and Hajj pilgrimage to pay their respect and tour around the city. Some popular ziyarat places in Madinah are as follows:

10. Al-Masjid an-Nabawi

Al-Masjid an-Nabawi is the top in the Madina ziyarat places list. It is the second most respected and largest mosque in the world, after Masjid al-Haram in Makkah. It is also the second holiest site in the world and in any ziyarat guide for Makkah and Madinah. It was built by the Prophet when he migrated to the city from Makkah. It is said that offering prayers in this masjid is much more rewarding than any other mosque in the world (except for the Grand Mosque in Makkah). Also, it is the resting place of Prophet Muhammad, with his tomb situated on the southwestern side of the mosque.

11. Quba Mosque

This mosque was founded by the Prophet himself. He came across this site while he was migrating from Makkah to Medina. It is not only a place of worship but also serves as a town hall, a cabinet and a madrassa. This site holds a prominent position in the ziyarat of Madinah and exhibits a marvel of Islamic architecture. It is a 15-minute drive from the Masjid Nabawi.

12. Jabal Uhud

This site served as a battleground for the Battle of Uhud. Off this mountain, the Prophet declared, “This mountain loves us and we love it.” It is advised that while hiking up this mountain, travellers should pace themselves and stay hydrated.

13. Masjid Ahzab – The Seven Mosques

This site is amongst the groups of masjids, known as Masjid Sab’ah (The Seven Mosques). The others are Masjid Salman Farsi, Masjid Ali, Masjid Umar, Masjid Sa’ad, Masjid Abu Bakr and Masjid Qiblatain. This site is where the Prophet made dua (supplication) during the battle of Ahzab. It is also believed that Allah sent him the glad tidings of victory here.

14. Masjid e Ghamama

Situated about 300m southwest of Masjid Nabawi, this site is also known as Masjid Ghamama, with Ghamama meaning clouds. It is built where the Prophet performed the Eid salah during the last years of his life.

15. Jannatul Baqi

Also known as the Garden of Heaven, this was the first cemetery in Madinah. This is the resting place of several of Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) family members, companions and well-known personalities. It is said that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) himself chose this spot to be a cemetery. This site is also called Baqi al-Gharqad. As’as Bin Zararah (an Ansari companion of the Prophet) was the first man to be buried here. Jannatul Baqi is considered righteous to visit this site (ideally on Friday’s) and pray to Allah for forgiveness.

16. Masjid Jummah

Situated on the outskirts of Madinah, this masjid is the place where Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) commanded the first Jummah salah after his migration from Makkah to Madinah. This site is situated about 2.5 km away from the Masjid-e-Nabwi and is also known as Masjid al wadi.

17. Masjid Qiblatain

Also called the Mosque of the Two Qiblas, this is an important historical site for every Muslim as this is the destination where the declaration of Quran came to alter the direction of Qibla to Kaaba in Makkah. This Masjid used to contain two mehrabs (wall directing the direction of Kaaba), with one in the Bait-al-Maqdis direction and the other towards Makkah, but now the old wall has been covered.

18. Saqifah Garden

This garden belonged to Banu Sa’edah and Muslims used to come here for a consultation on who to appoint as the Caliphate after the death of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). This site is located 200 m away from the Masjid-e-Nabawi in the west direction.

If you are planning a tour in Makkah and Madinah, this handy guide to Makkah and  ziyarat places is going to be a great help. In the meanwhile, we will keep adding to our list!

FAQs for Ziyarat Guide for Makkah and Madinah

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Popular places to visit with family in Makkah

Makkah is the holy city in which the holy Kabbah is situated. It is reputed as the birthplace of Prophet Muhammed(PBUH). Hence it is considered the Holiest city in Islam. This city is situated 70 km (43 mi) inland from Jeddah on the Red Sea, in a narrow valley 277 m (909 ft) above sea level. Statistically, it is the third most populated city in Saudi Arabia, and visited by a huge number of pilgrims who come here to perform the pilgrimages of Hajj and Umrah. Family attractions in Makkah are as follows:

1. Al Haram Masjid – The Great Mosque of Makkah

Among the best places to visit in Makkah, Al-Haram comes on the top. Millions of disciples gather here every year to offer their prayers and perform Tawaf. It is a ritual circling of the Kaaba. They come to the masjid wearing special Ihram clothing at all hours of the day. This is why it is known as the world’s largest mosque that never sleeps.

2. Fakieh Aquarium – A fun place to visit for children

If you want to spend some quality time with your kids, go to visit the marine-life exhibition in Fakieh Aquarium. It is an aquarium that introduces you to diverse aquatic dwellers who are mainly the natives of the Red sea. Children love to see the show of seals and dolphins and discover more than 200 species of fish in the spacious tanks. In addition, you also get to see sea turtles, seahorses, stingrays, and seadragons. There are also restaurants and café set up within the campus for refreshment purposes.

3. Makkah Royal Clock Tower – Witness spectacular architecture

Admired by travelers for over several years, it is another attraction of Makkah. It is the icon of Saudi Arabia and one of the recognizable buildings of the world. You will find this clock tower just next to the Grand Mosque. The building houses a mega shopping complex, restaurants, Kingdom’s highest observation deck and large prayer rooms. It is the tallest clock tower and the third tallest building in the world.

4. Makkah Mall – An array of local and global brands

When planning to visit Makkah, make sure you take your family shopping in the famous Makkah Mall. It is the most visited mall in Makkah and a go-to place for all shopping lovers. The mall is located near Masjid Al Haram and contains a wide array of local and international brands to shop for. In addition, it contains retail outlets for luxury brands, kid’s entertainment facilities, supermarkets, dining outlets and others. Thus, it makes it the perfect place to shop, dine and play with your family.

Suggested Read: Best Places To Shop In Makkah And Madinah

Best places to visit with family in Madinah

Madinah or Medina is the second most-holiest city in Islam. It is the fourth most populous city in Saudi Arabia. It is the city to which Prophet Muhammed (PBUH) migrated from Makkah. At first, it was called Yathrib; then it was renamed as Medina, which also means ‘The city of the Prophet(PBUH).’ From then onwards, a Muslim is not allowed to call Medina Yathrib.

5. Masjid-Al-Nabawi – The second holiest mosque

Masjid-Al-Nabawi, or ‘The Prophet’s Mosque,’ is a mosque built by the Holy Prophet Muhammed(PBUH) in the holy city of Madinah. It is considered the second holiest site after Kabbah. It is one of the most revered and largest mosques in the world. Generally, it is open all the time, but due to pandemics, some restrictions regarding time and number of visitors are put on the mosque. The importance of this mosque increased tremendously after Prophet Muhammed (PBUH) was buried in it; his tomb still resides in the mosque. The history of Masjid-e Nabawi is also full of dramatic incidents and reconstructions.

6. Medina Media Museum – A peek into the history

Medina Media Museum is a great place to take your children to. The small museum is located close to Masjid-al Nawabi and tells a lot about the history of Islam. It contains some interesting displays, models, theatre and illustrations seeing which your children will be intrigued. Visitors are also offered schematic clips of the famous battles and layouts. However, make sure to get a guide to truly understand the importance of the museum.

7. Al Noor Mall – Shopping, food, and entertainment

Another magnificent place to explore in Madinah is Al Noor Mall. A large number of tourists flock here to witness the outstanding structure of the mall with a unique blend of modern architecture and Islamic culture. It has tons of furnished outlets for your family to explore. The mall is so remarkable because the best designers have internally designed it, and the walls are decorated with finely crafted furnishings. Plus, it also offers its visitors different places to hang out. So, make sure to visit this mall with your family when you visit Madinah.

8. Quba Mosque – An important ziyarat site

Among the best places to visit with family in Makkah and Madinah, there are more religious sites in Madinah. The Quba Mosque is situated on the outskirts of the city of Madinah. It is important owing to the fact that it was probably the first mosque build during the period of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Also, its first brick was laid by the Prophet(PBUH) himself after he immigrated from Makkah. The Prophet(PBUH) spent 14 days performing Nafil namaz waiting for Imam Ali(PBUH) as he stayed and put his life in danger to save the Prophet(PBUH) ‘s life.

9. Masjid-Al-Qiblatayan – The mosque of two Qiblas

Masjid-Al-Qiblatayan is important because the order from Allah to change the Qibla was bestowed on the Prophet(PBUH) here. At first, the Qibla was Kabbah, but when the people of Makkah became haughty and proud of this fact, Allah ordered Muslims to change of Qibla temporary to Masjid-al-Aqsa this order was bestowed when Prophet(PBUH) was offering namaz in this Masjid; hence he changed the direction he was facing.

10. Al Hokair Luna Park – Most fun of family places

This is a famous theme park in Madinah located on Prince Sultan bin Abdul Aziz Road. It is the perfect place to spend time with your partner and kids. The Park contains tons of recreational and electric games that are open for all ages but especially kids. In addition, there is also an open ice-skating ring along with restaurants, cafés and drinks. So, while your child enjoys the ride, you can spend quality time in the café.

These are some really fun places to visit with family in Makkah and Madinah. Clearly, the twin cities are a great place to visit with family and children. If you are planning to visit these religious cities anytime soon, do take out some time to explore these places with your loved ones.

FAQs Places to visit with family in Makkah and Madinah

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Masjid al-haram is called the grand mosque as it is the largest mosque in the world covering an area of 88.2 acres of land (originally). The house of worship has been built and rebuilt after getting destroyed by natural calamities. Today, the pillars stand tall protecting the Great Black Stone standing in all its glory. Masjid al-haram is the single holiest site in Islam, the holiest place for Muslims to exist on the face of the earth.

The Grand Mosque of Makkah is a Beauty to behold

The Forbidden Mosque or the Masjid al-haram is the most beautiful. It is a sight to behold. You can feel the presence of Allah when you are between the pillars. It is said that the mosque never sleeps. Millions of Muslims go there to repent, ask for forgiveness, and worship the Almighty.

You can see the holy Kaaba in the center of the masjid standing tall and beautiful. Surrounding the Kaaba or the house of Allah, people perform the Tawaf or the circling ritual which is a part of the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages. Muslims wear special Ihram clothing to adhere to the fifth pillar of Islam. When the sun is out, the gleaming marbles reflect the holiness of the people and during the night, millions of lights flood the grand mosque in the most magnificent way to throw light on the minarets who watch over the gate.

Many Muslims are seen to be overwhelmed by their repentance and by being among so many people who have the same holy intention at heart. The aura of the mosque is such that it will make your faith stronger as you witness everything that you learned in the holy book, the Quran.

Masjid al-Haram History

The history of the Al-Haram mosque begins before the beginning of the earth. The book of the Quran says that the mosque was built even before the creation of mankind. It is supposed to mirror the place of Worship for the angels from the heavens. The mosque is a reflection of ‘The Worship Place for Angels’ or al-Baytu l-Ma’mur.

According to the Gregorian calendar, the construction of this mosque began in the 7th century by Caliph Omar Ibn al-Khattab. The number of pilgrims was increasing hence the walls were reconstructed further around the Kaaba. In 777, Abbasid Caliph Al Mahdi demolished the original mosque and came out with a grid plan. He then built a larger mosque around the Kaaba. There are many buildings in that mosque that date back to 1571.

The mosque was renovated to be expanded from 1950 to accommodate more people into its sanctuary. The most recent construction was done in 2018. After this, it became the world’s largest mosque set to be home to 2.5 million worshippers in a land of 187 acres.

Important structures in Masjid Al-Haram

Even though there are so many sites to behold in the grand mosque, here are some important structures that hold significance in the heart of every Muslim.

• The holy Kaaba is a cuboid-shaped structure, located at the center of the mosque. It is in the direction where all Muslims direct their prayers.
• The Black Stone, located on the eastern corner of the holy Kaaba.
• The Station of Ibrahim, a rock situated next to Kaaba, known to have the footprint of Ibrahim (SAW)
• Safa and Marwah, the two hills located inside the mosque. Between this, Ibrahim’s(SAW) wife Hagar, ran in search of water for her infant son. This event is commemorated as a ritual of Hajj.
• The ZamZam well, which has a constant flow of water, spurted up miraculously when Hagar was unable to find any water.

The History of the Kaaba

We understood that the mosque is of great importance and there have been many floods and natural calamities that have destroyed multiple areas of the mosque. However, the spellbound fact is, even after the destruction of many areas of the mosque, nothing happened to the Black Stone of Kaaba.

Kaaba was built by Prophet Ibrahim (SAW) even before Prophet Muhammad (SAW) was born. Before the Prophet influenced most people to take up Islam, there were idols kept inside the Kaaba. As we know, idol worship is forbidden in Islam and thus resulted in a lot of conflicts. After the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, escaped to Madinah, his followers also traced his steps. Subsequently, following a lot of conflicts and battles, our Prophet finally returned to his home (Mecca) and Azaan was sung on the holy Kaaba.

Even though there have been a lot of constructions and a reconstruction of the mosque, Kaaba is the only structure that has maintained originality that was built by Prophet Ibrahim (SAW). Allah ordained the black stone to be the direction of worship.

Must Read: History Of Kaaba, From Origin To Its Last Renovation In 1626

5 Facts about Masjid Al-Haram

1. Masjid Al-Haram is the eighth largest building in the world.
2. It is not the oldest mosque known to mankind. The Mosque of the Companions in the Eritrean city of Massawa and Mosque Quba are the oldest mosques.
3. The mosque was severely damaged in the year 1629 due to heavy rains and floods. It was rebuilt by Sultan Murad IV.
4. In 930 AD, the black stone of the Kabbah was broken to pieces during the Qarmatian raid.
5. The mosque is spread over an area of 356,800 sq metres.

Islam has a very rich history and Masjid Al-Haram is a very important part of it. Ever since Prophet Muhammad (SAW) became enlightened, the world has seen a lot of people overnight turning towards Islam. This is because the idea of Islam is based on having one true God and that is Allah. Although, the beginning of Islam was well before Prophet Muhammad (SAW). History suggests that there have been many prophets who have spread their knowledge and fought their share of battles in order to embed the idea of Islam and protect the Religion in the hearts of the followers. Masjid Al-Haram unites Muslims as they perform prayers in congregation during Hajj and Umrah, and takes forward the tradition and faith of Islam.

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If you are visiting during Ramadan, the joy and the festivities in the shopping hubs is infectious. Everything from malls to shopping complexes to street markets are beautifully decked-up, there’s a vibe of celebration all around. The joy of stepping out to visit these shopping hubs is a great way to become a part of the celebrations of Ramadan in Makkah and Madinah. However, irrespective of the timing of your visit, the plethora of options available in the cities are simply mind-boggling and can leave you confused as to what to pick and from where. Here is quick guide to the best places to shop in Makkah and Madinah that are a mix of fancy malls, decent complexes, and busy street markets.

Popular Places For Shopping In Makkah

1. Bin Dawood Shopping Complex – Housed on the first floor along the grounds of the Hilton Hotel, this complex has everything that open markets offer. It is only a minute walk away from the Haram and makes for a suitable option over markets. Pilgrims can come here to relish Kentucky fried chicken, buy dates, Swiss watches, sportswear and much more. The complex is one of the most popular places to shop in Makkah and Madinah.

2. Abraj Al Bait Complex is a famous five-storey mall that is renowned by the name of Clock Tower. There are complexes and branded outlets around the Al Masjid Al Haram road. The neighbourhood of Aziziyah is well-known for shopping complexes and luxury boutiques. Other places to shop in Makkah are Souq Al Otaibiah and Al Ghazaand Ajiad.

3. Khalid Ibn Al Waleed Street – Pilgrims often pass this famous street on their way to the Grand Mosque as there are many things that they can pick here for the pilgrimage. From eatables like juices and sandwiches, to Makkan specialties such as perfumes, prayer carpets, veils and souvenirs, it offers a wide range to the visitors. Also, you can buy traditional clothing with beautiful prints and patterns.

4. Shopping Malls in Makkah – Besides famous complexes and streets, opulent malls are also among the popular places to shop in Makkah and Madinah. Talking specifically of Makkah, malls here are grandiose structures and adorning interiors that offer a relaxing shopping experience to the visitors. Malls in Makkah have all leading global brands as well as premium gold shops. The most famous malls in Makkah are Makkah Mall, Makkah Auction, Al Diyafa Mall, and Hijaz Mall.

Most of the shops in the sacred city are open between 9.00 A.M. and midnight from Saturday to Thursday. On Fridays, the shops open around 2.00 P.M. or 4.00 P.M. and stay glittered until midnight. The shopping places around the Grand Mosque stay open at all times around every day of the week. Some famous places like Bin Dawood, Carrefour, Noori and Panda open early in the morning and entertain buyers even past midnight.

Book Your Stay at the Top Hotels in Makkah

Best Places For Shopping In Madinah

1. Malls in Madinah – Al Noor Mall is the largest mall in Madinah that even has an indoor playground for kids to enjoy and relax. Rashad Mall is also a popular and lavish place to shop and buy specialties of Saudi Arabia. It is a multilevel retail center that features a beautiful dramatic water fountain where visitors love to relax for a few minutes. Other popular malls in Madinah are Madinah International Mall, Alqarrat Mall, and Taybah Shopping center. With so many upscale shopping centers that house the best of brands in apparels, perfumes, cosmetic, decor, gadgets and more, it is a delight for someone who loves shopping branded items.

2. Open Markets – Madinah has ample open marketplaces that have small shops selling traditional specialties of the region. One of the most famous markets in Madinah is the Old Bazaar, which houses small merchants that have been running shops and selling quality items for generations. Homemade food, perfume and fresh produce are some of the specialties that you can find here. The city is famous for supplying exquisite dry fruits like dates, raisins, almonds, pistachios and apricots. It has a market to buy herbs and spices like oregano and mint. Taiba Commercial Center and Bin Dawood supermarket are some other places where one can roam around and make a good purchase to take home.

Makkah and Madinah are the holiest Islamic cities and attract a lot of pilgrims every year. Most visitors love to take out some time after performing Umrah to explore what these beautiful Saudi cities have. It is always lovely to find something exclusive and amazing, and malls and shopping centers in these centers are the best stops to pick it up. Besides, there are a number of street markets right outside the Haram in both cities. Here, you will find sellers selling everyday trinkets, prayers essentials, and tiny souvenirs that will easily fit in your pocket. With so many options, visitors can choose from a variety of options to buy and take home gifts for their loved one. The range is huge, so one can choose based on their budget.

Suggested Read: Top 10 Things To Buy In Makkah And Madinah

Book Your Stay at the Top Hotels in Madinah

FAQs About The Best Shopping Places In Makkah and Madinah

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