Makkah Shopping Center

One of the most important shopping complexes in Makkah, the Makkah Mall is a large and multicultural business arena with numerous outlets catering to the tastes of local and international brands of clothing, accessories, shoes, and perfume. The mall features both outdoor and indoor playgrounds for all ages as well as international cafes and fast-food restaurants.

Al Diyafa, Souk

One of the oldest among the shopping complexes in Makkah is Souk Al Diyafa; it houses a wide selection of stores presenting local and international brand names products.

Al-Khalil Souk

Situated very near to the Grand Mosque (Masjid Al-Haram), Souk Al-Khalil-1 opened in 2013 and is housed under the Jabal Omar Hilton Suites Makkah and Jabal Omar Hyatt Regency Makkah. It is a commercial center, one of the largest in Jabal Omar, featuring shops from high-end boutiques to locally popular and international retailers. Besides high-end stores like Sephora and Rolex, the brands also include MotherCare, Footlocker, and Abdul Samad Al-Qurashi.

Nokhba Al Khair

Nokhbt Al-Khair is situated in Ar Rawabi, Mecca, on Ajyad Street. Nokhbt Al-Khair has a three-star rating. Hira Cave and the Makkah Mall are nearby. There are 298 rooms in the 15-story hotel. Among its many features are Wi-Fi, a restaurant, and room service.

Tara Ajyad

Abraj Al-Bait Towers and Al Malaa Cemetery are located within a 10-minute drive from the Tera Ajyad Hotel in Makkah. The civilization mosque is 4.7 miles while the other mosque is 5.1 km 4.7 miles 5.1miles . The room is composed of 73 air-conditioned rooms which include flat-screen televisions and refrigerators. Sat TV is useful for your entertainment. There is free toiletry with a shower in the bathroom. Other varieties are electric kettles and free bottled water, and there is daily housekeeping. Free self-parking is available on-site.

Le Meridien

Le Méridien Makkah Hotel is the one that is just 150 meters away from the King Abdul Aziz gate, overlooking Al Haram, the holiest site on earth. The mosque of Al-Haram and other blessed sites in Mina and Arafat are also accessible from the hotel, thanks to its strategic location on King Abdul Aziz Street. Close to Makkah Haram gives you an immense satisfaction and spirituality. There are 255 magnificent guest rooms and suites in the hotel, all with luxury accommodations and terrific views of the Al Haram.

Fairmont

It is one of the tallest structures in the world, where the Fairmont hotel is located, merely 100 meters far from the Sacred Mosque. A sauna, steam room, hot tub, and fully equipped fitness center are available. 24-hour concierge services are available.

Allah's Sanctuary is Makkah

Allah honored Makkah over all other places in the world. The fact that it is His sanctuary is among the best indicators.

What does "Haram" (Sanctuary) mean ?

It is a place where some things that are permitted elsewhere are prohibited out of respect and reverence for the One who has forbade them. "And whosoever honors the sacred rites of Allah, it is best for him in the sight of his Lord," said Allah the Exalted.

Allah has chosen this land and made it sanctified, forbidding what He has allowed elsewhere and showing its special qualities and advantages. It has ever been revered and venerated since the time of creation.

As long as the heavens and the earth have been created, Allah has assigned this country a special rank and made it sacred. And it shall be so even to the end of time. Indeed, it is a haven ever since God created the earth and the heavens-the Prophet (peace and blessings be on him) said. As long as heaven exists, so long shall it be permitted for this town as a haven until does arrive an order, the Day of Resurrection.

For me, what does the Sanctity mean ?

Before Allah brought his creation into being, He had made a choice, respected, and sanctified the location where you are today. He designated Makkah as the qiblah, the center of the world's guidance, and before the establishment of a single inhabitant ever lived there, he commanded the one of deep faith, Abraham, peace with him, to lay down the foundations and construct the House (Ka'bah). Allah the Most High said: "The first house (of prayer) established for men is that at Bakkah (Makkah): a blessed place, a guidance for all the worlds (of men and jinn)."

Here the reward for good deeds is multiplied, and sin is not the same as it would be elsewhere.

Allah entrusted the highest of humanity, Prophet Abraham and Ismail, and Prophet Muhammad, with the purification, building, and maintenance of the Ka'bah.

Makkah is the Qiblah of the Muslim

Honorable Makkah is Allah's and His Messenger's most favorite place on earth, the finest site in the world.

he Lord selected it for the Hajj rites, making pilgrimage to it an act ordained and adored by Him, an elevating act erasing ill deeds. "You are indeed the best part of Allah's earth and the part that He loves the most," Prophet Muhammad said (may peace and blessings be upon him).

The first house on Earth devoted to worshiping Allah was built there. Allah the Exalted said, "The first House (of Prayer) established for mankind is the one at Bakkah (Makkah): a blessed place; guidance for all worlds (of people and jinn)."

From the initial days of creation of the universe, this preference on the part of Allah was conferred upon Makkah. "This town was made sacred from the day Allah created the heavens and the earth; it is sacred by the sanctity conferred on it by Allah till the day of resurrection," said the Prophet.

Muslims all over the world assemble in unison for a common prayer five times daily to promote their unity and brotherhood. Allah the Exalted stated, "We have seen you (O Muhammad), turning your face repeatedly towards Heaven." "And so, we give you a direction that will please you: wherever you may be, turn your face towards it when you offer prayer."

Makkah, the qiblah, guiding state, source of blessings and grace for Muslims, is indeed the center of their lives. Allah deserves the praise for such immense blessing. Allah, the Most Blessed says, "Indeed Allah has appointed the Ka'bah the Sacred House as a way of livelihood for mankind, along with the garlands and the offerings and the Sacred Month. This implies that Allah knows about everything, and that anything that is in the heavens and the earth is known by Allah."

It is Allah's house, praise be to Him, and He has given it excellences.

Makkah is the Muslim Qiblah.

Honorable Makkah is the favorite place on earth of Allah and His Messenger and the most important site of the world.

It was chosen by Allah for rituals of Hajj and made to be a religious journey that uplifts mankind and erases sins. "You are the blessed part of Allah's earth, and the part that is most beloved to Him," said the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him).

There is built therein the very first house upon earth specifically for worshiping Allah. Indeed, "The House of Bakkah (Makkah) is the very first House (of Prayer) established for mankind. A blessed place, guidance for all worlds (of people and jinn)," as declared by Allah, the Exalted.

In the early stages of creation, the town of Makkah acquired that distinction and privilege. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, "This city will be sacred from the day Allah created the heavens and the earth; it will continue to be sacred by the sanctity bestowed upon it by Allah until the day of resurrection."

To conjoin their unity and fraternity, Muslims worldwide face this five times a day while praying to their Lord. Allah the Exalted stated, "We have seen you (O Muhammad), turning your face repeatedly towards the Heaven. Turn your face toward the Sacred Mosque while We direct you toward the Qiblah of your choice. From now on, turn your face toward it wherever you may be while praying."

Muslims make Makkah the focal point of their life on the intersection of faith, divine guidance, blessings, and mercy. This is a great gift from Allah, to whom we owe a debt of gratitude. "Surely, Allah has made the Ka'ba," said Allah the Exalted, "an establishment for mankind, and also the Sacred month, the offerings, and the crowns." This is, to let you know that Allah knows everything and also that He is aware of whatever exists in the earth and the sky.

This is his sanctuary, and it has been described by him in all its merits.

Parts of the Makkah Grand Mosque

Ka'bah Courtyard: Also known as Mataf, the Ka'bah courtyard The noble Ka'bah is surrounded by a white marble-tiled courtyard. It is now known as the "courtyard," where Muslims stroll about the Kab'ah. Another name for it is Mataf (circumambulation region), which describes the practice of circling the Ka'bah.

Abbasid Corridor: The Abbasid Corridor came into being under Muhammad al-Mahdi, who was Abbasid Caliph and has undergone many changes through the years and during the Saudi expansion of the Grand Mosque of Makkah.

Saudi Expansion: The Government of Saudi Arabia has made the enhancement and expansion of the Grand Mosque of Makkah a priority to cater to the increasing numbers of pilgrims who perform the Hajj and 'Umrah. The beginnings of the expansions of the Grand Mosque were initiated in 1375 AH during the reign of King Saud. Further expansions took place in 1409 and 1428 AH.

Outer Courtyards: The large courtyards around the Grand Mosque are erected as part of the second Saudi expansion on the Grand Mosque, for prayer, especially during the times of the year when the visitor numbers heightened. They were tiled into heat-resistant marble.

Grand Mosque Roof: During the second Saudi expansion, the roof of the Grand Mosque was taken advantage of. The roof was tiled with heat-resistant marble. In the third Saudi extension, escalators were installed to transport worshippers to both the first floor and roof during peak times and during Hajj.

Entrance to the Grand Mosque: There are several gates that provide access to the courtyard of the Grand Mosque. Each of the gates is assigned a unique number. Located above each gate is an illuminated sign that is visible from afar, indicating entry or exit.

The Grand Mosque has five main gates:

• King Abdulaziz Gate: The first gate of the Western Plaza
• Bab Safa Gate: No. 11 towards Masa'a (Sa'i walkway)
• Bab al-Fatah Gate: North Square, No. 45
• Bab Umrah Gate: North Square, No. 62
• King Fahd Gate: The last gate of the Western Plaza, No. 79

The courtyard of the Grand Mosque in Makkah

The courtyards outside the Grand Mosque of Makkah have been built to ease entry for worshippers or pilgrims performing the Hajj and Umrah. On Fridays and during Hajj and Umrah seasons, these courtyards are often crowded with worshippers, and thus they are intended to be used as prayer floors.

Key Role of Management of Haram Courtyards:

• Free entry of worshippers into the Grand Mosque.
• Opening of passages from the courtyards to the gates of the Grand Mosque.
• Assistance to drifters, the elderly, and the disabled.
• Prohibition of trading or begging within the courtyards.

Important Services on the Open Courtyards of the Haram:

• Safe lockers
• Zamzam water
• Misting fans
• Restrooms and ablution areas
• The courtyards are regularly cleaned.

Do Not Do the Following in the Sacred Courtyards:

• Do not leave your belongings in the courtyards. They may be kept in lockers or other secure places.
• Do not carry sharp objects or weapons.
• Do not use motorcycles or bicycles.
• Do not drink or smoke.

The Circumambulation Courtyard's Notable Sites Include:

The courtyard surrounding the noble Ka'bah, with white marble paving, is where the Tawaf takes place. This courtyard is what we call the Tawaf area. It is the place where all Muslims make a revolution around the Kaaba.

Important features of the circumambulation courtyard:

• The honorable Ka'bah is observed by Muslims as their qiblah, which is the only object they go around worshipping Allah.
• Abraham Maqam Ibrahim: Ibrahim alayhi al-salam is believed to have stood on this stone while constructing the Ka'bah. In the Haram, it is an obvious indicator. "There are clear signs [like] Abraham's standing place in it," declared Allah Almighty.

The Ka'bah:

For Muslims, it is the most basic religious building and the most prosperous Sacred House of Allah. Its history and mansion established it rightfully as the most revered site of any Islamic temple. With blessings of peace upon them, it was built by Prophet Abraham and his son Ismail.

The first house which Allah placed on earth to devote oneself wholeheartedly to Him without associating Him with anyone else. "The first House (of Prayer) established for mankind is the one at Bakkah: a blessed place and a guidance for the worlds." This is the center of the hearts of Muslims and their qiblah. This is the one and only house they walk around in honor of Allah.

Here are the following characteristics of the Ka'bah, which can be seen while walking around it:

Al-Hatim (Ismail Hijr): On the side of the Ka'bah there is an open half-circular area. The Ka'bah included a section of it. Those who pray within it are considered to have received the same rewards as praying in the Ka'bah itself.

Ka'bah door: The Ka'abah's door is located on the east side, and the entire door is made of gold. Its height is 222 cm from the ground.

Al-Multazam: According to Al-Multazam, it is the east wall or a part of it. It lies between the entrance to the Ka'bah and the Black Stone. Placing one's face, arms, hands, and chest on this wall when praying to Allah Almighty is called iltizam, or to hold on to. This is especially difficult to do during the busy seasons.

The Gutter on the Roof: A gourmand is a water drain on the outside of the Ka'bah to help drain water to Hijr Ismail.

Shazrawan: It has become the structure of the Ka'bah. It is enwrapped around it like a dress itself. Neither does it form any part of the Ka'bah. Rather, it was designed from its inception to form a supporting structure for the Ka'bah, to protect it from the lashes of heavy rains. For generations, it is maintained as it is. Currently, it is covered with white marble.

The Black Stone: The Prophet said that peace and blessing would arise from there; so, it came down from Heaven. This implies the point from where the tawaf commences and where it comes to an end. When the dispute arose over who should carry the Black Stone back into place after part of the structure had been washed away by rain, it was the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, who placed it there again.

The Yemeni Corner: The Ridiculous Ka'bah has four corners, one of which is the Yemeni Corner. It is known as "Yamani" because it faces Yemen. The Black Stone and this location are accordingly called "the two Yemeni corners."

Floors for Circumambulation:

The circumambulation building is included with:

• The circumambulation courtyard
• Ground floor
• The first-floor meezanin floor for wheelchair users
• The roof.

The circumambulation building can take:

• The circumambulation courtyard accommodates 30,000 circumambulators every hour.
• An hourly capacity of 107,000 circumambulations is allowed all floors together.

Accessing the floors has been guided with predetermined routes by the security staff. Pilgrims performing Hajj and 'Umrah should cooperate with them and comply with their directives.

Al-Masa'a

As-Safa and Al-Marwah: What are they? Hagar (Ismail's mother, peace be upon him) ascended two hills in pursuit of water and nourishment.

• As-Safa: The hill where Sa'i starts; it is still today visible through the floor of the development floor of Masa'a.
• Al-Marwah: The finishing hill over against As-Safa.

Measures of Masa'a:

• 394 meters long
• The total distance covered by all seven rounds was about a distance of 2761 meters.
• It takes about 45 to 55 minutes to perform the Sa'i walk. There is some variation in walking speed according to certain factors.

Floors of Masa'a: The total surface area of Masa'a is 87000 square meters, and the number of stories is numerous. These are,

• The basement
• The ground floor
• The first floor
• Second floor
• Masa'a roof
• The mezzanine floor for people with motorized wheelchairs.

Zamzam Well

The Zam Zam Well is 21 m away from the kaaba and it has a circumference of 3.60 m at its head.

Other names for Zamzam quite literally mean: Suqya Ismail, Safiah (pure), Mubarakah (blessed), Salimah (safe), and Tahirah (pure)

It was through such well-handling from the historical Caliphs and monarchs that Zamzam was taken care of. The care persisted during the Saudi dynasty, therefore, in the year 1345 AH, King Abd al-Aziz asked for the construction of a benevolent fountain at Zamzam. A year later, he ordered the well to be covered, as well as its den and a second benevolent fountain constructed. The inherent curiosity would still ensue. In 1439 AH King Salman endorsed Zamzam well projects and five services of that well.

Zamzam Water Distribution Center:

The Zamzam Water Distribution Center was established as an organization that inspects and regulates the wells in Zamzam, thus ensuring the water provided to Hajj and Umrah pilgrims is of the highest standard.

Zamzam Laboratory:

• Oversees the stages of water treatment in Zamzam.
• Oversees the filling procedures for the tanks that deliver Zamzam water to the Prophet's Mosque.

Services offered at Makkah's Grand Mosque

Every year, millions of pilgrims from all over the world congregate in Makkah to perform the Hajj and 'Umrah. Great efforts have gone into providing them services, thus liberating the pilgrims and tourists to peacefully fulfill their tenets in a safe and secure environment. Thus, these are a few among many services offered by the Grand Mosque.

Friday sermon translation service:There are still other languages in which this service can be offered for the Grand Mosque's Friday sermon: Urdu, French, Malay, Persian, or English. Manarat Al-Haramain Digital Platform is able to translate it live with audible rendition.

Answering the queries of worshippers: Answering pilgrims and worshipers quests: Grand Mosque has telephones for pilgrims' and worshipers' query answer. Available in 7 other languages.

Translation of Qur'anic meanings in many languages: Visitors in the Haram are able to read the Qur'an and think about its meanings. Various translations of the meanings of the Qur'an are available in many international languages and displayed on the shelves of Qur'an. You can ask for them. Taking these translations out of the Haram is not allowed, as they are a waqf.

Services to benefit those with disabilities-

Essential services for the disabled are offered by the Grand Mosque:

• This includes sign language interpretation of the Friday sermon for the hearing-impaired. The main venue is the prayer hall in King Fahd Extension, near Gate 64.
• There are also several other facilities:
• Space in King Fahd extension which can accommodate more than 25 people.
• The Tawaaf Prayer Room is for prayer around the circumambulation.
• Ajyad Prayer Hall on the first floor,
• This is located on the ground level of the King Fahd Extension, next to Gate number 67.
• It is situated adjacent to Gates number 88 and 74 on the ground floor; the prayer halls for women.
• Supplying the blind with Braille Qur'ans and electronic Quran devices is offered.
• There is the provision for transporting wheelchairs to the restrooms and upstairs via lifts.

Service for wheelchairs: The Grand Mosque owns a well-equipped fleet of manual and electric chairs. In the Grand Mosque courtyard, this service has been made available free to fit their purpose for the transport of pilgrims, senior worshippers, and the disabled. Around 3,000 electrically powered wheelchairs and 5,000 ordinary manual wheelchairs have been set aside for assisting disabled pilgrims in getting around.

Zamzam

Among His magnificent gifts to Makkah and to its visitors is water from the zamzam. After his father, Abraham, was commanded by Allah to leave him and his mother Hagar in Makkah, it was Allah Who bestowed it upon Isma'il and Hagar. Then he prayed to Allah: "Our Lord! Surely did I settle of my offspring in the valley which is uncultivable, near unto Your Sacred House," inclined some hearts of men toward them, and provide for them with fruits that they may give thanks and establish prayer for.

To pay tribute to Abraham, his son, and their country, Muhammad (blessings and peace be upon him), God allowed that beautiful water to come forth from the feet of the child while giving it a uniqueness and advantage that that water doesn't have anywhere on earth.

Zamzam water at the Grand Mosques:

• Zamzam water is supplied in drinking water containers in chilling, as the common supply in the Grand Mosque in Makkah and the Prophet's Mosque, while these containers without cooling should bear identification.
• There are plastic containers with drinking cups, disposable. New cups are put on the right-hand side of the containers, and after being used, aren't disposed of but placed in the bin on the left side.
• That will disrupt the water staff with regular refills of containers if these containers have to be moved from their position.
• These is only for ready-to-drink containers. Taking out water from the Haram or using them for ablution wastes Zamzam water and poses a danger to pilgrims and tourists by making them susceptible to pollution and slippage.

Directional signs that one can follow

The Grand Mosque has various guiding signs, which was incorporated into different languages to put into account the tourists, just to facilitate the movement and accessibility to the overall facilities of the mosque throughout the courtyards and corridors of the mosque.

There are different types of guidance signs at the Haram:

• Movable signs: These signs are transportable according to entry and exit plans of the Grand Mosque. The height adjustable feature of the signs makes them visible from afar.
• Water closets, restrooms, Mataf (circumambulation area), area signage in Masa'a, and the second Saudi expansion. Lettering and signs are constructed symmetrically into nice forms, sizes, and colors, in consideration of their visibility and compatible with the architectural style of the Grand Mosque. Such signs include indicating the direction for Sa'i, which is in Al-Safa; the direction that is commencing for Sa'i should be taken going back out of the circumambulation, once finish.
• High-resolution screens, referred to as electronic guide signs, facilitate navigation, direction, orientation of the pilgrims, warning of hazards, and ensuring visitor safety at the Grand Mosque.
• Grand Mosque Gate Panels: These panels bear the names of the various gates. Each gate's name and pertinent details shall be displayed using QR codes. There are also instructional signs that inform visitors from afar whether a given gate is entry-only or exit-only.

All the above-mentioned services have been established for the sake of the worshippers and pilgrims during the Hajj and 'Umrah. Thus, they will be reached as soon as possible, saving time and effort and ensuring the free flow of traffic around the Haram.

Escalators

The highest standards were adhered to in the construction and expansion of the Haram Mosque and its holy site services. It is now a model for both the splendor of construction and the quality of services. What follows are the most crucial cautions on using the elevators generally by the pilgrims, especially to access the holy shrine and its grounds for worship services:

• Even if you're tired, don't sit on an escalator. Always use the handrail while standing and hold on firmly.
• Women have to see that their loose clothing and hijabs are not caught at the escalator end.
• As soon as the escalator reaches the step, walk off the escalator so that behind you someone doesn't run you over.
• Wheelchairs should never be put on an escalator unless assisted by a capable person.
• Be beside him and hold him, so he doesn't fall; if you have an elderly person or someone not used to escalators.
• Whenever a group of people is using the escalator, do allow your brothers a chance to go first, avoiding shoving or annoying the other pilgrims.
• Do not place your foot on the side brush of the escalator when it is at a convenient position in front of you; it could seriously cause injuries to him or to malfunction with the cleaning mechanism.
• If you have a headache or cramps or get nosebleeds, go to the nearest hospital.

Wheelchairs for old and sick people

Free Wheelchairs: Free wheelchair services can be accessed through three courtyards at the entrances to the public transport: eastern courtyard, southern courtyard (by King Abdulaziz Endowment), and western courtyard (by the Al-Shabika gate).

Electric Wheelchairs: The Grand Mosque has four entrances where the service for electric wheelchairs is available:

• The eastern courtyard (roof of Al-Qashashiya)
• Courtyard to the south (down the Ajyad Bridge on the first level)
• The Bab Ajyad escalator is within the western courtyard of the Shabika Bridge

The Tanaqqul app allows for the pre-reservation of electric wheelchairs, which can be found at the Mezzanine level (beginning of tawaf) and on the As-Safa of Sa'i (the track). To allow maximum and utmost usage of the wheelchair, you should use the designated tracks and entrances; follow the instructions of the guides; care for the wheelchairs; and proceed with caution when driving severely.

Golf Carts: You will get free golf cart service at the Grand Mosque. It will be especially helpful for worshippers and elderly or disabled pilgrims performing 'Umrah.

Fatwa Service Overview

Within the Grand Mosque of Makkah, a special program for responding to inquiries has been established and managed by the General Administration for Guidance and Counseling. Within these offices, a group of religious scholars, university students, judges, teachers from religious institutes, and so on provide answers to query from pilgrims about the meaning of several laws and customs relating to Hajj and 'Umrah. There are 19 program offices open in the Grand Mosque. In all, these religious services issue legal pamphlets and great useful consultations.

Offices in Ifta:

• Ten offices within Saudi Arabia's Grand Mosque in Makkah.
• Grand Mosque has nine cabins in the outer courtyards and entrance.

Hours of operation: 24 hours a day

Attention: In case of busy lines, kindly make use of the unattended phones at King Abdul Aziz Gate and King Fahd Gate, and also, the offices of Ifta. When the receiver is lifted, you will receive an automatic response.

Muftas for females via robot guidance: A robot guide for female visitors to the Grand Mosque is granting fatwa services and communicating information by modern computerized techniques. Provided at several of the female prayer halls in the Grand Mosque, the service requires instruction for Hajj and 'Umrah processes in eleven languages.

Service for speech and hearing characteristics

The Grand Mosque accommodates and makes all services necessary for people with speech impairments or people with hearing problems. Several employees provide assistance and services for them. The best technical services are also provided to facilitate their worship in the Grand Mosque.

Separate hall for prayers: For the hearing impaired, a separate prayer hall has been constructed. In this hall, they are taught the Quran in sign language, along with translations of Friday sermons, lectures, and fatwas. It is located in the Grand Mosque of Makkah, near Gate No. 93.

Friday sermons and prayers: Hearing- or speech-impaired persons conduct their Friday prayer at the Grand Mosque. The prayer hall is formally established for their arrival. The communication is through sign language. Then, one of the sheikhs responds to some queries put by them after the prayer, an interpreter rendering the translations into sign language.

Additional Services:

• The Grand Mosque of Makkah offers a service called symbol signs to assist those who are hard of hearing or speech in using the mosque's many amenities.
• Distribution of a digital sign language interpretation of the Noble Quran's meanings.
• Giving those who have hearing loss hearing aids during sermons, classes, and prayer periods
• Educating them in sign language and certifying several Holy Quran instructors at the Grand Mosque.

Restroom facilities in the vicinity of the Grand Mosque

The toilets and the ablution areas are those that people need constantly for hygiene and performance of religious rites.

• Such amenities can be found in the outer courtyards of the Grand Mosque complex.
• These institutions undoubtedly stand out because they maintain extraordinary cleanliness.
• Although the entrances to the courtyard to these facilities appear to be few, they actually incorporate many underground restrooms and generally accessibility by escalators.

A brief summary of the locations is provided below:

• Men's and women's toilets (1) and (2) are located in front of the Dar Al-Iman Royal Hotel and the As-Safwa Towers and the King Abdulaziz Gate.

• Men's toilet (3) is located adjacent to the As-Safwa Towers, facing King Abdulaziz Gate.

• Men's toilet (6) and women's toilet (7) are situated close to the At-Tawheed Hotel, in front of King Fahd Gate towards Ibrahim Al-Khalil Street and Jabal Omar.

• Men's toilet (8) and women's toilets (4) and (5) are positioned in front of doors (86-88), King Fahd Escalator, near Hijrah Road and the Makkah Towers.

Restaurants and markets adjacent to the Haram

Many shops and markets surround the Grand Mosque of Makkah. Depending on their price and products, they are suitable for a wide variety of tourists. The best eateries in this area are:

• Markets and store for Jabal Umar project
• Restaurants and shops in Al-Khalil Square
• Markets and retail establishments of King Abdulaziz Endowment Project
• Markets and shops of Al-Safwa Towers Hotel
• Markets and shops of Makkah Hotel and Towers

This street leading toward the gates of the Holy Mosque comprises shops, eateries, and the famous gift and cloth shops that entertain all classes of society, catering to various price levels for products and meals.

Where to get Zamzam Water?

There are drinking water containers available for the visitors inside the both the Grand Mosques.

The Zamzam water of Madinah and Makkah

• Bottles which can be taken to drink in your hotel, on the trip, and while visiting Madinah are of reasonable cost. Care should be taken not to purchase Zamzam water from street vendors as they charge high prices.

Even though Zamzam water is supplied with the greatest purity levels, it may interact with plastic containers if it is exposed to direct sunlight.

While in-flight, you'll be drinking Zamzam water.

• A pilgrim must verify airline policies and customs laws in order to know the permissible amounts and required procedures.

Care Centers

His Excellency has entrusted the undertaking of the Hajj Pilgrimage centers to Public Service, wherein travelers from around the world will be assured of quality service and counseling in various languages.

Some of the major services provided by these centers include:

• Guiding lost persons.
• Giving advice on services available to pilgrims.
• Taking care of correspondence, complaints, and queries.

Services are provided in the following languages

• The following languages are spoken by the staff at these support centers: Arabic, Chinese, English, Hausa, Indonesian, Malay, Persian, Turkish, Urdu, and Uzbek.

In case of any help required, you can call on: 920002814.

Kids in the Haram

Sometimes this can be quite challenging. When parents wish to take their children of any age to a mosque or place of worship, the parent must request permits through the Zuljannah website.

Above five years old, "Umrah permits" are necessary for children.

Parents must ensure that their child has a name card or bracelet and that the name bears the phone number of the child's parents. Children will always be accompanied by parents, who themselves will not move away from their children to give away their position. Parents will also ascertain that their children do not disturb worshipers.

The Drifters Care Center: The center is dedicated to lost children in the Grand Mosque and will help them reunite with their families. Supervision of this center rests with the security force of the Grand Mosque in Makkah.

Hira Cave and Mount Noor (Jabal An-Noor)

The angel Gabriel from the mountain of Noor (Jabal An-noor) called the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) and brought him the first divine revelation. In this mountain cave, Muhammad would spend time meditating on the mysteries of creation and worshiping Allah his Lord.

When Gabriel gave Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) the revelation from Allah in this cave, the course of human history was altered. "Read!" was the very first thing made public. In the name of your Lord, Who is the Creator. [He] creates man from a clot. Read! And the Most Bounteous is your Lord. He who teaches by the pen. [He] teaches man what he knows not.

North of the Grand Mosque, up Jabal An-Noor, lies the cave. It is located about 4.8 km (3 miles) from Makkah. Its elevation is near 634 m (2080 ft.).

This is a natural hole with an entrance to the north, allowed to fit 9 people seated. The height is around 1.6 meters.

Please Note: Visiting the cave is not compulsory or recommended; it has no connection with the Hajj rituals. Older adults and sick individuals may find it difficult to access the cave.

Thawr Cave and Mount

The Messenger of Allah (may blessings and peace be upon him) and his companion Abu Bakr as-Siddiq (may Allah be pleased with him) took refuge in the cave of Thawr for three nights. In this very small cave, they were hidden from the prying eyes of the polytheists, while Allah kept them safe.

Allah, the Most High, assisted him before when the disbelievers had cast him out from his house, and he was but the second of the two: when the two were in the cave, he said to his companion, "Do not be distressed: indeed, Allah is with us.".

• Location of the cave: The cave is about 4 kilometers or 2.5 miles from Mecca, on the Mount Thawr crest, and is about 748 meters, or 2454 feet, above sea level.Location of the cave: The cave is about 4 kilometers or 2.5 miles from Mecca, on the Mount Thawr crest, and is about 748 meters, or 2454 feet, above sea level.
• The Cave of Thawr: The Cave of Thawr is a cavity about 1.25 m (4.1 ft.) high; it's an ordinary limestone cavity, with two openings, one to the east and one to the west, on the northern slope, at the top of Mount Thawr.

Please Note: It must be noted that visiting the cave is neither obligatory nor recommended, as it has no relevance to Hajj rituals. In view of the distance, rugged nature of the terrain, and difficult conditions for access, one must note that this successfully targets the elderly and the sick.

Cultural District of Hira

Hira is a distinctive tourism and culture site near Makkah. This monument strives to achieve several objectives:

• To make the attraction site highlight the historical importance of Saudi Arabia while demonstrating boldness in its commitment to protect our sanctified and historic sites and their guests;
• To elevate the historical importance of the site and provide support for the religious and historical importance of Makkah;
• To improve pilgrims' experiences religiously and culturally;
• To ensure that visitors to Makkah are secure;
• To inject developmental elements toward the benefit of visitors to Makkah.

The Revelation Exhibition:

• Connects back to the project at the first revealed place by heaven the Hira Cave. Revelation constitutes a major context for this project. The exhibition tells the story of the prophet's, may peace and blessings be upon him, revelation.
• Still, the exhibition specifically presents this aspect of the life of the prophet Muhammad and has a specific hall devoted to the revelation to him.
• Indeed, the visitors will experience the cave of Hira, Khadeejah, the Wife Mother of Believers, and angel Gabriel, may peace be upon him, to know each component of the revelation. Indeed, the audience will be taken on a delightful trip via audio-visual settings through its lively technical presentation.

Exhibition Opening hours:

• 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. from Saturday to Thursday
• 4:oo p.m. to 10:00 p.m. on Fridays.

For reservations and inquiries, contact: +966559850986.

The Mosque of Aishah in At-Tan'eem, may Allah be pleased with her:

• This was the mosque from which the Mother of the Believers, Aishah bint Abi Bakr As-Siddiq may Allah be pleased with her and her father entered the state of ihram for her 'Umrah after the Farewell pilgrimage.
• Like everybody else of the Companions, she wanted to leave Makkah once her Hajj and 'Umrah had finished, but she was prevented from doing so because of considerable justification given to her. After completing Hajj, the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) instructed her brother to drive her to Al-Tan'eem, the place where the mosque exists today, in order for her to enter her Ihram and perform 'Umrah.
• The mosque is situated at a distance of 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) from the Grand Mosque, west of Makkah, and outside the Haram.
• An-Nasr Mosque is the nearest center from outside Mecca where the Mecca residents put on ihram for 'Umrah.
• Constructed during the caliphate of Al-Mutawakkil (240 AH), this place was rebuilt by King Fahd.
• Having received permission from either 'Tawakkalna' or 'Eatamarna', a person wanting to do Umrah must put on Ihram from At-Tan'eem.

Mosque of Namerah

• Standing on the sacred grounds of Arafah, the Namerah Mosque is one of the significant landmarks. Tens of thousands of pilgrims from across the world gather for the prayers in this mosque on the Day of Arafah.
• On this very spot, the Prophet Muhammad (may the peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) prayed and delivered his final sermon, where this mosque was built now.
• In this mosque, Zuhr's and Asr prayers are offered. The speaker of the mosque delivers a sermon on the Day of Arafah, which is broadcast on different Islamic radio and television stations.

Mosque of Al-Khaif

In Mina, it is the best mosque. During the Farewell Hajj, the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, remained there and offered prayers.

This is where old prophets (peace be upon them) stopped and offered prayers before. It is said that 70 prophets prayed inside the Al-Khayf Mosque.

There, pilgrims pray to this day.

Location of Al-Khayf Mosque: Al-Khayf Mosque is located in Mina on King Faisal Road.

Details about mosque size and capacity:

• It covers an area of 25,000 square meters.
• It has a capacity for 45,000 worshippers.
• Each corner contains one long minaret.
• Sleeping is not permitted inside the mosque. Worshippers must come and go as they pleased.

Mosque of Aisha Al-Rajhi

As a case of an integrated mosque, it is amongst the largest mosques in the Makkah area wherein a variety of programs and a plethora of services are planned.

• Located in Al-Naseem, Makkah; opened in 1434 AH.
• Site area-60,864 sq m; built-up area-10,000 sq m.
• Accommodating 47,000 worshippers inside.
• It contains six floors.

This mosque is characterized by participation in:

• Social programs
• Educational programs
• Volunteers for Hajj-'Umrah season and reception of delegations from within and abroad.

Kiswah is a covering for the Kaaba

The history of the Kaaba is woven into and intricately entwined with that of Kiswah. The silk is black and embroidered with passages from the Holy Qur'an in gold water. In all, there are five pieces, the fifth being a curtain that is draped over the door of the Kaaba. Production is carried out under the direct supervision of the Kiswah Factory of the Holy Kaaba, located in the very heart of Makkah, Al-Mukarramah. The new Kiswah replaces the old one once-a-year during Hajj on the day after the pilgrims have left Arafah.

Museum of Clock Towers

Sited on the terrace of Makkah's tallest clock tower, this museum is dedicated to astronomy. The museum utilizes the most advanced methods for the educative display and explanation of astronomy, Qur'anic perspectives on astronomy, the work of Muslim astronomers and space scientists, and other pertinent and interesting subjects. Established in 1440 AH.

Museum floors:

• First floor: Makkah Clock exhibits (building, features and techniques).
• Second floor: time measurement, human innovations, and attempts to tell the time.
• Third floor: exhibits about the sun, the earth, the moon, and related themes.
• Fourth Floor: exhibits about the universe in general.

At the end of the tour, the visitor can see the most beautiful and majestic view from the highest balcony: the Ka'bah and the Grand Mosque, and Makkah mountains and valleys.

Location of the Museum: The Clock Tower, Endowment of King Abdulaziz.

The King Abdullah Project and Zamzam

The Saudi National Water Company manages the project of King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz for Zamzam Water in Makkah. It was launched in the month of Ramadan in 1431 AH.

The project has begun to supply Zamzam water to the Grand Mosques of Madinah and Makkah; safely bottled Zamzam is made available to beneficiaries, with a daily maximum production capacity of 200,000 bottles.

As for service recipients, the project staff guide and direct service beneficiaries, responding to inquiries about the services provided.

Zamzam water bottles can be found at the following locations:

• Makkah: ZamZam Water Project by King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz
• Jeddah: Prince Mohammed Al Maktoum Airport
• Madina: King Abdulaziz International Airport

The Biggest Clock Tower in the World

The Makkah Clock Tower rises more than 400 meters high. The biggest clock tower in the world, with a circumference of around 40 meters. The clock weighs 36,000 tons. visible from Makkah al-Mukarramah from more than eight kilometers away. The longest word in the world "Allahu Akbar" is above the clock and is over 23 meters tall. The clock has four faces and the biggest of the crescent was made with a diameter of 23 meters. The Shahadatain: "Muhammad is the Messenger and servant of Allah, Taste this and believe that there is no god except Allah" can also be seen. It was constructed in accordance with the strictest security standards in a purely Islamic style.

Museums

Makkah has interesting, small museums that shed light on the centuries-long history of Islam and the city as a destination for many pilgrims all over the world. On an attractive tour run by the Exhibition of the Two Holy Mosques, you will get to observe elaborately carved marble arches, salvaged wooden doors, etc., that were preserved and restored from earlier buildings of the mosques as you see the construction and alteration of the Masjid Al Haram in Makkah and the Masjid An Nabawi in Medina. Slipping into the adjoining Kiswah Museum requires no small dedication, but the black silk kiswah that drapes over the Kaaba is indeed in need of some respect. The kiswah is, interestingly, made by hand with the calligraphic inscriptions sewn using threads made of real gold and silver. The amazing Makkah museum in the grand Al Zahir Palace brings you into its past, starting from antic rock carvings documenting the rich pre-Islamic history of Makkah. Rare copies of other important, and some centuries-old books, and some early Islamic coinage from the Byzantine, Abbasid, and Umayyad periods may be inspected as well.

King Abdul Aziz's Endowment for the Two Holy Mosques

The King Abdulaziz Endowment Project for the Holy Mosques is one of the biggest building ventures on the globe. It occupies an area of 1.5 million square meters. It comprises seven towers, each 600 meters in height and next to one another, which can accommodate 65,000 people. The project also has a mosque for 3,300 worshippers, a parking lot linked to underground tunnels that can park over 1,000 cars, and water tanks with a total capacity of more than 53,000 cubic meters, particularly for peak hours and day and night supply.

The Door to the Kaaba

This is located at the eastern side of the Kaaba; it reaches more than 222 centimeters above the ground from Shazrawan. The door is 318 cm high, 170 cm wide, and almost half a meter deep. The door-to-the-Kaaba was once a hole before it was eventually covered with a door that has a long given history and several changes. In his days, in the year A.H. 1363, King Abdulaziz bin Abdul Rahman Al Saud, may his soul rest in peace, ordered the building of a new entrance. At that time, it was 3.10 meters high and 2.5 cm thick, made of aluminum. Iron bars supported it. After that, on the outer face, silver plates were laid with a thin layer of gold. Fine names were inscribed onto the door. King Khalid bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud, may Allah have pity on him, ordered the replacement of that by a new door made of pure gold. For long-time periods, the door was opened from random points to allow people into the Kaaba; thus, it became a threat to the life of the people in the crowd. Therefore, the door was allowed to open only twice a year; first during the month of Sha'ban, during which cleaning is done, and secondly at beginning of Dhul-Hijjah, when a new Kiswah is rigged on.

The Mashaer Train System

This train connects the southern part of Mina (Jamarat Area) to the southeastern area of Arafah, allowing pilgrims to move easily to the holy sites. The train serves three stations, which are Arafah, Muzdalifah, and Mina; operation begins from Jamarat Station, running through Mina and Muzdalifah to Arafah at speeds between 80 and 120 km/h. It employs automatic operations in the control of trains from a central operation and control center without requiring a driver. Each train has twelve engines and carries three hundred pilgrims in any one trip. Its overall capacity is seventy-two thousand passengers per hour. Access to the train is provided by means of ramps, elevators, staircases, and computerized gates.

The Kiswah Exhibition

The exhibition details the history of the kiswah, that is, the cloth covering that envelopes the Ka'bah, the stages and techniques involved in weaving it, and other Qur'anic verses and inscriptions that are woven into it.

Visitors may:

• Get a close-up view of the Qur'anic verses inscribed on the honorable kiswah.
• Study the particulars of the kiswah of the four sides of the Ka'bah.
• Know about the history of the kiswah and some specimens of old covers.
• Educate themselves about the efforts of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in the service of the Ka'bah and its kiswah.
• See an illustrative representation of the stages involved in the making and replacement of kiswah in the Kingdom.
• At times, guests may even assist in sewing the cover of the Ka'bah.

Location: Jeddah Road, Makkah-Kiswah Factory with its showroom.

Mina

A stage of the Hajj pilgrimage. It is characterized by white tents and was recently awarded the Guinness World Record for the largest tent city in the world. It offers various services, including the Mashaer Train, accommodation, catering, transportation, integrated energy system, and interconnected road network. Pilgrims generally dwell here on the eighth of Dhu al-Hijjah (Day of Tarwiyah) before returning for three days of Tashreeq (the eleventh, twelfth, and thirteenth of Dhul-Hijjah) and the Day of Nahr (the tenth of Dhu al-Hijjah). Mina marks the beginning of Hajj. It is highly honored due to the religious history. It is known as 7 kilometers northeast of the Holy Mosque and falls inside the boundaries of the Haram between Makkah and Muzdalifah. It is well-known for both historical events and archaeological sites. Besides some old wells, like the Kadana well, is the continuation of "Ain Zubaida". The Arab Market, which derived its name from the Arab pilgrims exchanging markets between the tenth and thirteenth days of Dhu al-Hijjah, is one of the recognized historical seasonal markets of Mina.

Arafah

Arafat is the site of the pilgrims' halt on the ninth day of Dhu al-Hijjah. "Hajj is Arafah," stated the Holy Prophet, may peace and prayers be upon him; it is for this reason that this day is called the Greatest Day of Hajj. At the time of Arafah, one can stand at Arafah to offer prayers virtually anywhere inside the precincts of Arafah or the Mountain of Mercy. Pilgrims will join before shortening the Zuhr and Asr prayers on the day of Arafah. This prayer is notable for containing a sermon delivered by Muhammad, may peace and blessings be upon him, for he had performed his farewell Hajj on that day and had given the address. After sunset, pilgrims depart from Arafat toward Muzdalifah. The Prophet, may peace and blessings be upon him, stated that the day of Arafah is the greatest day for Allah, therefore it is a day of many favors.

Muzdalifah

The Holy Qur'an refers to it as al-Mash'ar al-Haram. Remember exalted Allah at al-Mash'ar al-Haram after leaving Arafah. As an important facet of the Hajj pilgrimage, it is located in between Arafah and Mina. After completing the Jabrah, pilgrims spend the night in Mina, obtain pebbles for subsequent ritual pebble-throwing (Jamarat), and combine and condense the Maghrib and Isha prayers. Pilgrims stay here for most of the night until the next morning lights up on Eid al-Adha (3rd day).

Namirah Mosque

The mosque on Mount Arafah stands as the last place where the Prophet Muhammad delivered a farewell address. On the day of Arafah, millions of pilgrims gather at Namirah Mosque for their zuhr and asr prayers. Located on the westside of Arafat, the mosque is placed in the Wadi 'Arnah valley, in Makkah, due west of Mount Arafah. The Prophet prohibited the travelers to the pilgrimage from standing there as it does not fall under the territory of Arafat, even though it is quite near to it. There are various names for the Namirah Mosque in many books: Arafah Mosque, Arnah Mosque, or Mosque Ibrahim of the Prophet. Prior to his staying within the Arafat area, the Prophet had been at a locality just outside the boundaries of Arafah, where he delivered his lecture and offered the Zuhr and Asr prayers. The name for the mosque derives from the name Arafah Mosque. The biggest expansions took place in Namirah Mosque during the era of the Saudi State, and it grew to be the second largest mosque in Makkah in area after the Holy Mosque. The mosque extends 340 meters from east to west, 240 meters from north to south, and has an area of more than 110,000 square meters. It has 8,000 square meters of covered space. The capacity of the mosque is about 350,000 people. Other features include 6 minarets, an adequately furnished open-air preaching space, and a satellite broadcast that is used to broadcast the sermon, the Asr prayers, and the Zuhr prayers on the day of Arafah.

Jamarat

The Jamarat or the Jamrah Pillars, are among the most distinguished sites of Mina, hurled towards the Jamarat Bridge. They are located in Mina Valley. Presently they are enclosed within the Jamarat Bridge, which is among the great constructions of the Kingdom for the purpose of crowd control and safety during the throwing of Jamrat. At the beginning of the Day of Nahr, only seven pebbles are thrown towards the largest Jamrah. Seven pebbles are thrown toward the small Jamrah, the middle Jamrah, and the largest Jamrah, respectively, during the days of Tashreeq. A pilgrim is allowed to throw Jamarat from one level of the Jamarat Bridge. To ensure others' safety and security, pilgrims must fully adhere to the Tafweej timetable-the group dispatching time-established by the host for the beginning of throwing Jamarat along with the movement instructions. It is one of the engineering and civilized innovative projects for the greater service to the welfare of pilgrims, that is, the Jamarat Bridge. It has four stories besides the ground floor. It is a grand structure, 80 M wide; less congested due to 12 entry and 12 exit points in all four main cardinal directions. It connects with the pilgrim camps.