Masjid al-Haram
World's largest mosque, enclosing the Kaaba — Islam's holiest site (Muslims only)
On this page
About Makkah
Makkah Province spans the western Hejaz region of Saudi Arabia, stretching from the Red Sea coast inland to the Hejaz Mountains. The province is anchored by Makkah city — Islam's holiest site accessible only to Muslims — and Jeddah, a cosmopolitan gateway city open to all visitors. Taif, perched at 1,800 meters elevation, offers cool mountain air, rose farms, and ancient palaces, while Yanbu provides Red Sea diving and petrochemical industry heritage. Together these cities offer an extraordinary blend of spiritual depth, cultural richness, and natural beauty.
- Capital
- Makkah
- Largest city
- Jeddah
- Population
- 8.6 million
- Languages
- Arabic
- Currency
- Saudi Riyal
- Time zone
- Arabia Standard Time (UTC+3)
Explore Makkah by topic
Jump straight to the experience you're planning.
Best places to visit in Makkah
The 5 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
Al-Balad, Jeddah
UNESCO World Heritage historic district with coral-stone houses and centuries-old markets
Jeddah Corniche
30km scenic waterfront promenade along the Red Sea
Shubra Palace Museum, Taif
Elegant 1905 palace museum with Italianate and Ottoman architecture
Jabal al-Nour
Sacred mountain containing the Cave of Hira where the Quran was first revealed (Muslims only)
Recommended itineraries
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
5-Day Makkah Explorer
- Day 1Arrive in Makkah, explore city center
- Day 2Visit top attractions and museums
- Day 3Day trip to nearby highlights
- Day 4Local markets and hidden gems
- Day 5Final sightseeing, departure
7-Day Classic Makkah
- Days 1-2Makkah city highlights
- Days 3-4Regional exploration
- Days 5-6Cultural immersion and local experiences
- Day 7Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate Makkah
- Days 1-3Makkah comprehensive city tour
- Days 4-6Northern region exploration
- Days 7-9Eastern highlights
- Days 10-12Southern attractions
- Days 13-14Return to Makkah, departure
Where to stay in Makkah
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Budget $50
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Mid-range $150
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
Luxury $450+
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
Shangri-La Jeddah
Check rates on Booking.comAssila Hotel Jeddah
Check rates on Booking.comCoral Al Ahsa Hotel
Check rates on Booking.comWhere to eat in Makkah
Cafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
Sammak Al-Basli
Al Nakheel
ROKA Jeddah
Fakhr El-Din
Getting around Makkah
Transportation options in Makkah include local buses, taxis, and rental cars. Check local conditions before planning your travel.
Budget breakdown
Daily spend by tier in SAR, broken out by category.
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $20-45 | $80-120 | $250-600+ |
| Food (per day) | $10-15 | $30-50 | $80-200+ |
| Transportation | $5-8 | $20-30 | $50-100+ |
| Activities | $5-10 | $20-30 | $50-150+ |
| Daily total | $50 | $150 | $450+ |
Best time to visit Makkah
November to February — coolest months ideal for families with young children
Essential travel tips
- Get a Saudi tourist e-visa before arrival for eligible nationalities
- Download Uber or Careem before arriving for easy transport
- Respect prayer times — shops and restaurants close 5 times daily
- Book hotels near Masjid al-Haram months in advance for Hajj and Ramadan
- The best weather is November through February
Safety information
Heat is the biggest risk for children — keep young children in shade and indoors during peak heat (10AM-4PM)
Apply SPF 50+ to children before any outdoor activity
Non-Muslims must not attempt to enter Makkah city — explain this clearly to older children
Children must also dress modestly — shorts below the knee, covered shoulders
Keep children within sight in crowded areas like Al-Balad souqs and malls
Frequently asked questions
Is Makkah safe to visit in 2026?
Makkah Province is generally safe for tourists visiting Jeddah, Taif, and Yanbu, with low rates of violent crime against visitors. The most common risks are heat-related illness, traffic accidents, and administrative issues with visa or access restrictions. Emergency services: police at 911, medical at 911.
What is the best time to visit Makkah?
The best time to visit Makkah is November to February. Makkah Province has a hot desert climate (Köppen BWh) characterized by very hot summers, mild winters, and minimal rainfall. Jeddah on the Red Sea coast experiences high humidity in summer while Makka
Do I need a visa to visit Makkah?
Entry requirements follow Saudi Arabia rules. Most nationalities require a visa; tourist e-visas are available online for 60+ countries. Non-Muslims are strictly prohibited from entering Makkah city but may visit all other areas of the province including Jeddah, Taif, and Yanbu. Requirements vary by nationality, so check with your nearest embassy or the official immigration website before traveling.
What currency is used in Makkah?
The currency in Makkah is the Saudi Riyal (SAR). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
What language is spoken in Makkah?
The main language(s) spoken in Makkah: Arabic. In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.
What are the top attractions in Makkah?
The top attractions in Makkah include Masjid al-Haram (The Grand Mosque), The Kaaba, Jabal al-Nour (Mountain of Light), Jabal Thawr, and Mount Arafat (Jabal al-Rahmah). Each offers a unique experience, from historic landmarks to natural wonders.