Mecca Saudi Arabia 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Holy Sites

  • Arrival: Reach Jeddah King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED). You can book a taxi or use a pre-arranged transfer service to your hotel in Mecca.

  • Hotel Check-in & Rest: After checking in, take some time to rest and freshen up. Due to the religious significance of Mecca, dress modestly and follow local customs.

  • Iftar (if visiting during Ramadan): Enjoy Iftar at Al Baik, a popular Saudi fast food chain known for its delicious chicken and okra dish.

  • Masjid Al Haram: Spend the evening performing Tawaf (circumambulation) around the Kaaba and perform two Rakats of prayer in Masjid Al Haram, Islam’s most sacred mosque.

Day 2: More Holy Sites & Jabal Nur

  • Breakfast: Start your day with breakfast at your hotel or try local dishes at a nearby cafĂ©.

  • Masjid Al Haram: Spend the morning performing Salah (prayer) and exploring the mosque. Remember to follow the etiquette inside the mosque.

  • Jabal Nur (Mountain of Light): Visit this sacred site where Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is believed to have ascended to Heaven during his Night Journey (Isra and Mi’raj).

  • Lunch: Have lunch at a local restaurant, Al Balad. Try popular dishes like Kabsa (Saudi Arabian rice dish) and Laban (yogurt drink).

  • Mina: Take a trip to Mina, another important site during Hajj where you can see the massive tent city and infrastructure built for pilgrims.

Day 3: Arafat & Muzdalifah

  • Breakfast & Departure: Early morning departure to Arafat following the schedule of Hajj pilgrimage (if visiting during Hajj season). Remember to wear comfortable clothing and shoes.

  • Prayer at Arafat: Spend the day performing prayer, supplication, and reflection on the plains of Arafat. This is one of the most significant days in Islam.

  • Stone Throwing (Rami): After sunset, proceed to Muzdalifah for the tradition of stone throwing (Rami). Gather pebbles at the designated area and return them to Jamrat Al Aqabah near Mina.

  • Dinner & Rest: Have dinner at a temporary dining facility or enjoy a packed meal. Return to your hotel in Mecca for rest.

Things to Know:

  1. Dress modestly and respect local customs. Women should wear an abaya (a simple, loose overgarment) and a headscarf. Men should wear long trousers.
  2. Non-Muslims are not allowed in Mecca without special permission.
  3. Stay hydrated, especially during the summer months.
  4. Taxis and Uber are widely available in Mecca.
  5. Cash is preferred over cards in local businesses.
  6. Prayer times can affect your daily schedule, so plan accordingly.
  7. Respect the sanctity of the holy sites and follow all rules and regulations.

Tips:

  1. Book your hotel well in advance, especially during Hajj season.
  2. Carry a small travel prayer mat for performing Salah outside Masjid Al Haram.
  3. Wear comfortable walking shoes as you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
  4. Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
  5. Learn basic Arabic phrases, such as “Assalamu Alaikum” (Peace be upon you) and “Shukran” (Thank you).
  6. Be mindful of cultural customs and traditions during your visit.