Lasting 29-30 days, Ramadan is the time when the Muslim community refrains from drinking or eating anything from dawn to dusk. The meal consumed before dawn is known as Sahur, while the post-sunset meal, with which Muslims break the fast, is called Iftar. Many people prefer celebrating this holy month with their families, while some prefer traveling to beautiful destinations. Makkah or Mecca, which is known to be the holiest city in Islamic culture sees a huge number of pilgrims during this auspicious month. Celebrating Ramadan in Makkah has its own significance as it is the birthplace of Prophet Muhammad.

Historical places to visit in Makkah during Ramadan

The sacred destination of Makkah is decorated beautifully during Ramadan. One can look forward to visiting Ramadan bazaars, and take part in Qiamullail prayers that begin before Sahur. Usually at its busiest during the holy month of fasting, Makkah is home to different sites that are perfect for visiting while observing Ramadan.

1. Al-Masjid al-Haram

Also known as the Great Mosque of Mecca, Al-Masjid al-Haram is one of the most significant historical sites in Islam. It encloses the holy Kaaba and witnesses a large number of pilgrims every year. Perfect for visiting during Ramadan, this mosque is considered to be an ideal place for performing different pilgrimage rituals. It is also the largest mosque in the world.

If you are spending Ramadan in Makkah, Al Haram is one of the most important places to visit. This grand mosque houses the Holy Kaaba and many more holy sites, namely the Safa and Marwa hills, the Maqam Ibrahim and the Zamzam Well.

2. Cave of Hira

Located approximately 10 km from the holy Kaaba, the Cave of Hira was the place where Prophet Muhammad retreated for the entire month of Ramadan. During the last 10 days of this period, he was visited by the angel Gabriel during which the first divine revelations from Allah descended upon Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). A must-visit place in Makkah during Ramadan, this cave attracts millions of pilgrims every year.

Know more about the cave of Hira here.

3. Mount Arafat

Jabal-Ar-Rahmah or Mount Arafat is amongst the holy places to visit in Makkah during Ramadan. As per the Islamic tradition, Mount Arafat is the place from where Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) delivered the ‘Khutbat al-Wada’, also known as the Farwell Sermon, to his companions. As per some beliefs, this is the place where Adam and Eve were forgiven following which they reunited. This is why this mountain is also known as Jabal ar-Rahmah, implying ‘Mountain of Mercy’. Pilgrims can also see a pillar on the top of Mount Arafat where this event is said to have occurred.

4. Hijr al-Aswad

Located in the eastern corner of the Kaaba, Hijr al-Aswad or the Black Stone of Mecca is of great significance. As per the Islamic tradition, the stone was set into the wall of Kaaba by Prophet Muhammad himself. Those visiting the Great Mosque of Mecca during holy pilgrimages perform the ritual of Istilam, i.e. the act of kissing this stone while circumambulating the Kaaba. Holding an important place in Islamic culture, Hijr al-Aswad is an ideal place for visiting in Makkah during Ramadan.

5. Masjid e Taneem

Located in close proximity to the holy Kaaba, Masjid e Taneem is one of the most sacred places to visit in Makkah if visiting during Ramadan. It is also known as Masjid-e-Ayesha, as this is the place where Prophet Mohammed’s wife Ayesha had put on Ihram. This mosque is popular among pilgrims who are planning to commence holy pilgrimages of Umrah or Hajj; and thus witnesses huge gatherings for prayers during Ramadan.

Performing Umrah from Masjid-e-Ayesha

6. Maktaba Makkah-al-Mukarramah

Known to be the birthplace of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), this place is a must-visit in Makkah during Ramadan. Converted into a national library, Maktaba Makkah-al-Mukarramah receives a large number of visitors annually. It is a part of most-sightseeing tours as it is one of the key historical places to visit in Makkah.

7. Jabal al-Thawr

According to the Islamic tradition, Jabal al-Thawr is the place where Prophet Muhammad and his companion took refuge from a mercantile Arab tribe (Quraysh) on the way to Medina. For Muslims, this place holds great significance, owing to which it is visited by both tourists and pilgrims in large numbers.

8. Safa and Marwa

Two small hills located in Makkah, Safa and Marwa are religiously significant as per the Islamic culture, thus making them a must-visit during the holy month of Ramadan. Among the important sites for Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages, these hills are situated adjacent to the holy Kaaba.

9. The Station of Ibrahim

The Maqam Ibrahim or the Station of Ibrahim is a small square-shaped stone that is known to have the imprint of Prophet Abraham’s feet. As per the Islamic tradition, the imprint appeared when Ibrahim stood atop the stone at the time of building the holy Kaaba.

5 Things to do in Makkah during Ramadan

The holy city of Makkah looks beautiful during the holy month of Ramadan. It is known to be the holiest city in Islam and therefore has a lot to offer to the pilgrims. From paying respects at important sites to exploring the malls, here’s a quick list of the best things to do in Makkah in Ramadan.

1. Offer prayers at the Grand Mosque

The Great Mosque of Mecca, also known as Al-Masjid al-Haram, is one of the most holy sites in the city. Offering prayers to Allah here is considered to be one of the most important things to do in Makkah during Ramadan.

2. Visit the Abraj Al-Bait Towers

Situated in the heart of Makkah, Abraj Al-Bait is a government-owned complex that comprises seven hotels. It is one of the top tourist attractions in Makkah, that stands in close proximity to the Great Mosque of Mecca. Abraj Al-Bait Towers consist of two prayer rooms in order to accommodate pilgrims visiting the Kaaba. This landmark complex also has two viewing platforms that provide a sweeping glance over Makkah. Furthermore, it comprises an observation centre for the moon sighting and a museum of Islamic Art. Home to different hotels, supermarkets, food courts, pharmacies and shopping malls, this complex is truly a one-stop shop. During Ramadan, you can look forward to offering prayers or buy souvenirs for your loved ones from the Abraj Al Bait Mall, or even enjoy picturesque views of the Grand Mosque.

3. Explore Al-Zaher Palace Museum

Featuring significant archaeological discoveries of Saudi Arabia and pre-Islamic history exhibits, revisiting Islamic history at this museum in Makkah is also one of the top things to do during Ramadan. It is a popular Mecca tourist attraction for those who are fond of Islamic history.

4. Shop at the beautiful Makkah Mall

One of the most visited malls in the city, Makkah Mall is a large shopping centre featuring a large number of entertainment areas and shopping brands. Ramadan is one of the ideal times to visit this shopping mall as attractive marketing schemes and lucrative discounts are introduced to gain customers’ attention.

5. Enjoy iftar in Makkah

Makkah is home to some of the most amazing eating joints, which offer delicious special meals for Iftar during Ramadan. During Ramadan, Iftar in Makkah is nothing less than a celebration. People can be seen out on the street, enjoying traditional Saudi dishes at street stalls, shops, as well as at standard and premium restaurants. Tourists can also offer prayers in the holy city of Makkah and eat iftar served in the mosques in Makkah.

Visiting Makkah during Ramadan is an ultimate blessing. It is the birthplace of Prophet Muhammad and home to diverse sacred sites. All the beautiful and blissful sacred sites just add to the holy vibe of celebrating Ramadan in Makkah. Most Makkah tourist places are crowded with locals who celebrate the month of prayers and devotions with joy and gaity.

Ramadan In Makkah FAQs

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Ramadan is considered the holiest month in the Islamic calendar where Allah (SWT) revealed the first surah’s of the Holy Quran to Prophet Mohammed (P.B.U.H.). In this month Muslims fast from dawn to dusk thus practising the Islamic beliefs of disciplining their selves, exercising self-control, sacrifice and empathy. By offering prayers they seek refuge in Allah, do good deeds seeking rewards and blessings from the god. Performing Umrah in Ramadan has enormous religious value and significance and here will take you through the rituals that a pilgrim needs to perform.

Performing Umrah: Important Rituals for all Pilgrims

• Umrah starts by assuming Ihram, which includes cleaning oneself thoroughly, taking a complete bath, and changing into two white sheets of unstitched cloth. For women, a plain regular stitched dress is allowed.
• Tawaf, the next ritual requires pilgrims to enter the Masjid-al-Haram with their right foot and go around the Kaaba seven times counter-clock.
• It is followed by Sa’i, where pilgrims climb up the hill of ‘Safa’ and walk towards ‘Marwa’ reciting supplications.
• The last step of Umrah includes the shaving off the head. Women need to cut their hair short instead of shaving them.

Benefits of Performing Umrah in Ramadan

According to Islamic belief, those who leave home intending to perform Umrah is a pilgrim until they return; and if they die during this pilgrimage, will be rewarded with the entry to the paradise. Every year, millions of Muslims visit Makkah to seek refuge in Allah, seek forgiveness, cleanse their sins, and pray for happiness and prosperity. And as they perform the prayers together at Umrah, the congregation is truly a sight to behold.

During this spiritual journey, pilgrims leave all negativity behind and devote themselves to the service and worship of Allah. They dedicate themselves to cleanse their mind, body and soul, and become better human beings. It is believed that whoever performs Umrah with pure intentions and a heart full of gratitude, earns the highest pleasure of Allah.

Things to do before Going for Umrah in Ramadan

Every Muslim desires and deserves to visit Makkah and perform all the rituals of Umrah. There are several things to know and do before going for Umrah during Ramadan, or any other month.

• Visa Validity: For travelling to Makkah for Umrah, Saudi Arabia issues a special Visa to the pilgrims. On the basis of this Visa, they can explore this holy city within 30 days from the date of issue.
• Hotel & Flight: Fares may vary depending upon the season. It is advised to make the bookings well in time to avoid last minute hassle.
• Umrah Rituals: If going to Umrah for the first time, it is important to connect with scholars who can provide guidance on how to perform Umrah. Pilgrims should be aware of the key Umrah rituals, and have clarity on dos and don’ts.
• Physical & Spiritual Readiness: Umrah during Ramadan is not just another journey. It is a pilgrimage that demands physical and spiritual readiness. Pilgrims often walk long miles in hot and humid conditions. It is important to be fit, eat right, and be devoted to the Almighty. Duas made with pure intentions are accepted; it is advised to make a list of duas for your loved ones.
• Places to Visit: While in Makkah, pilgrims must not miss visiting other places of religious significance in Makkah. With precise planning, a few sites can definitely be covered depending upon the duration of visit.

Umrah during Ramadan is as good as performing Hajj. It is the best way to multiply your rewards and blessings.

Umrah In Ramadan FAQs

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Ramadan is a period of devotion and worship for Muslims, irrespective of which part of the world they are in. The auspicious month of Ramadan is marked by day-long fasting throughout the month. During Ramadan, Muslims dedicate themselves to introspection, praying, charity, and self-restraint. They greet each other by saying Ramadan Kareem or Ramadan Mubarak and pray for the good health and happiness of their loved ones. With honest intentions, good deeds, reciting of Quran, and regular praying, Muslims seek and receive countless blessings and rewards from the Almighty.

This blog tries to outline the history, traditions, and significance of Ramadan in Islamic culture.

Disclaimer: This purpose of this blog is to educate the readers about Ramadan, its importance and practices. It is based on the facts and information curated from multiple primary and secondary resources.

About Ramadan Traditions & Significance

Ramadan is the time when Muslims observe month-long fasting, and go without food and water during the day, that is from sunrise to sunset. However, Ramadan is much more than just fasting–it is a time to be with family, look inwards, and connect with Allah; it is about reciting the Holy Quran, offering prayers, engaging in charity, participating in community feasts, and more.

The month of Ramadan holds a lot of significance for the Muslim community. It is a remembrance of the time when the teachings of the Holy Quran were first revealed to Prophet Muhammed. Ramadan ends with Eid-ul-Fitr – a festival of breaking the fast. On this day, Muslims have to perform a special prayer, essentially in congregation, in an open field or the prayer hall of a mosque.

The prayer is followed by dressing up in new clothes, visiting loved ones, exchange of gifts, and partaking in festive feasts.

When Does Ramadan Start in 2022?

Ramadan 2022 begins on 2nd April. The month-long fasting will end with Eid al-Fitr celebrations on 2nd May 2022.

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Hijri calendar, which is a lunar calendar. It is sometimes also referred to as the Islamic or the Muslim calendar. The exact beginning and end of Ramadan varies as it depends on the first observance of the new moon over Makkah in Saudi Arabia.

Ramadan 2022 Guidelines – Dos & Don’ts

The intention behind Ramadan fasting is to seek rewards from Allah. For this Muslims are advised to:

1. Fast from Sunrise to Sunset

“Oh you who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you, that you may learn piety and righteousness.”

(Surah Al-Baqarah: 2:183)

Fasting is an important part of Ramadan. All adult Muslims must fast from sunrise to sunset and follow specified rituals and guidelines as well. However, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:185), Allah has exempted sick people and travelers from fasting during Ramadan. In the opinion of many scholars, elderly, children, pregnant, breastfeeding, and menstruating women are also exempted.

What not to do during Ramadan fasting?

A few actions that lead to invalidation of the fast are:

1. Taking medication through nose or ears
2. Vomiting intentionally
3. Smoking
4. Eating after Suhoor – the morning meal before dawn
5. Eating after Iftar – the evening meal eaten after the sunset

2. Offer Prayers to the Almighty Allah

During Ramadan, Muslims pray 5 times a day on specified time, ideally in congregation. The prayers should be performed in an open area or a prayer hall of a mosque with the intention of seeking Allah’s blessings. There are specific prayers for different seekings and rewards, such as for forgiveness, for breaking of fast, and prayers recited  in the remembrance of God.

3. Perform Night Prayers, or Tarawih

Some Muslims also perform extra prayers at night during Ramadan. During Tarawih, a Hafiz: one who has memorized Holy Quran recites parts of the Quran every night, while attendees listen to the recitation. The recitation of the Quran is completed before the last day of Ramadan.

4. Recite the Holy Quran

Muslims must recite the Holy Quran during the entire month of Ramadan. However, there is no obligation to complete reciting the whole Quran. One might just recite at least one Juz: one of 30 parts into which the Quran is divided each day.

5. Observe Itikaf

Worship or ibadat is an important part of Ramadan rituals. Itikaf is the practice of staying in the mosque for a specific period and devoting time to worship. It involves not indulging in any worldly matters and focussing on religious rituals. Usually, Itikaf starts after the dawn of the 20th day of Ramadan and ends with the sighting of the Eid moon.

6. Pay Zakat

Zakat is a religious obligation and an important pillar of Islam. All Muslims are obligated to donate a portion of their earning/wealth for charity. It is believed that paying Zakat purifies the earnings made beyond providing for the essential. During Ramadan, Muslims do charity in various forms – monetary donations, helping the needy, feeding the hungry and so on.

7. Perform Umrah during Ramadan

Umrah – the minor pilgrimage carries immense religious value and holds a special significance during the sacred month of Ramadan. In fact, according to Tirmidhi: 939, performing Umrah in Ramadan is considered equivalent to Hajj in reward (not in duty; Hajj is still compulsory).

Ramadan Kareem 2022 Wishes

1. May Allah forgive you in this holy month of Ramadan.
2. I hope that this Ramadan, your prayers get answered soon, and all of your wishes come true.
3. Ramadan Mubarak. I wish you all happiness and prosperity. May all your prayers be answered
4. Ramadan Kareem to you and your family. I hope this Ramadan brings a lot of happiness to life.
5. May this holy month fill your life with joy, happiness, and togetherness. Ramadan Mubarak.
6. Ramadan Kareem. May Allah give us the strength to keep all of our Sawm and perform our Salah.
7. “Whoever fasts in the month of Ramadan out of sincere faith, and hoping for a reward from Allah, then all his previous sins will be forgiven.” – Sahih Bukhari

Make Ramadan 2022 all the more special by observing it with your loved ones. Follow the rules and guidelines to gain not just rewards and blessing, but also purify your mind, heart and soul.

Ramadan 2022 FAQs

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