The soul-fulfilling journey of Umrah attracts millions of Muslims to Makkah each year. Here, the pilgrims strive to attain the blessings of the benevolent Allah and seek redemption for mortal sins. Once the spiritual experience comes to an end, one can explore a few things to do in Makkah during Umrah that will add to their spiritual quest.
Makkah is the holiest and oldest city according to Islam. More than seven million people go to Makkah for Umrah. The city is designed to accommodate a large influx of people with its private residences to five-star hotels. Also, there are several things to do in Makkah during Umrah trip that give a glimpse of the city and its rich heritage.
4 Wholesome things to do in Makkah during Umrah
The best experiences that one can have in Makkah after completing their pilgrimage in Makkah are as follows:
1. Pay your respects at the holiest places in Makkah
Also known as the Great Mosque of Makkah, Masjid Al-Haram is the holiest pilgrimage site for Muslims. Covering an extensive area of around 356,800 sq. meters, the mosque has the Holy Kaaba at the center. If you are visiting Makkah for Umrah, it is a part of the pilgrimage.
One can also visit Mount Arafat, also known as Mount of Mercy. As per Islamic teachings, it is here that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) gave the final sermon. Muslims believe this is where humans are resurrected. The most satisfactory culmination of the Makkah trip is to visit the place where Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was born. Presently, a museum and library stand in this location.
2. Take a Ziyarat Tour
As per Islam, Ziyarat is the visiting of sites that are sacred in Islam. It includes the places that are associated with the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), his companions, family, and descendants, along with other venerated individuals. On the Ziyarat tour, the pilgrims gain the opportunity to pay homage to these holy sites in reverence to the almighty Allah. Depending on how much time you have, you can take a half day or a one day tour.
The list of sites that one can visit under the Ziyarat tour includes Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, Mount Uhud, Masjid al-Qiblatain, Maqbaratu l-Baqī’, Jannatul Mualla, Quba Mosque, and Thawr and Hira caves. By touring these places, one can feel more close to the benevolent Allah.
3. Taste the local food specialties
After performing the Umrah, the pilgrims can explore the culturally vibrant city of Makkah. The food here is an amalgamation of different flavors and is absolutely delicious. One cannot go back without tasting the exotic Arabic dishes. If the pilgrims opt for Umrah during Ramadan, they also get the chance to sample the exquisite Iftar buffets. Iftar is actually the meal with which the Muslims break their fast after sunset during Ramadan.
Apart from restaurants, there are also many hotels that host small Iftar buffets to celebrate the holy month. During Ramadan, restaurants and other eateries generally offer different dishes dedicated to Iftar. It is one of the topmost things to do in Makkah during Umrah.
4. Shop for exquisite praying essentials
Apart from being the city of numerous sacred sites, Makkah also has plenty to offer in terms of shopping. There are numerous shopping malls that one can visit on their tour to this holy city. After performing the Umrah, the pilgrims can go shopping for some beautiful and unique praying essentials in Makkah. Moreover, if one performs Umrah during Ramadan, the shopping experience is simply unparalleled. During this time, the shopping malls are beautifully decorated to celebrate the holy month.
Some of the most popular shopping malls in Makkah include Abraj Al Bait Mall, Makkah Mall, Al Aziziyah Central Market, Al Diyafa Mall, and more. One can also explore the oldest market in Makkah – the Al Otaybi Market. With more than 2000 shops, one can purchase souvenirs, high-quality clothes, and more.
There are numerous things to do in Makkah during Umrah however, it is vital to complete the sacred practice without any breaking of rules. If one does break any forbidden rule, then a penalty or expiation must be offered. Besides that, Umrah pilgrims can explore the holy city, visit its iconic landmarks, and collect souvenirs.
