Mecca,Saudi Arabia

Masjid -al-Haram at Mecca- The Islamic holy place in Soudi Arabia

People believe that prophet Muhammad lived and taught in Mecca about 1,300 years ago. Hence, it is an extremely holy city. All Muslims are expected to make a journey called the Hajj once in their lifetime if health and finance permit. This journey takes place every year when millions of Muslims make a religious pilgrimage during the last month of the Muslim year. It’s interesting to note that plans to make this journey must be made way in advance- months, sometimes years. All Muslims are required to provide paperwork that prove their religion and that they’re traveling with a tour group. The Old City in Mecca is where most of the activity takes place and most visitors spend a lot of time praying at Al Haram, the Holy Mosque. Journeys such as Hajj also include trips to other holy sides outside of Mecca.

The city has a wide variety of cuisines available since Muslims from all over the world immigrate to Mecca. A typical Saudi meal would consist of kabsah and biryani as well as baklava for dessert. Baklava pastries are slabs dipped in honey and are unbelievably delicious. Mecca is also a brilliant place to shop because it has traditional bazaars as well as modern boutiques selling all kinds of clothing. If you visit the Al Haram mosque, it might be a good idea to shop at the Al Abraj Al Bait mall for some quick shopping between prayers.

One of the places in Mecca that are essential for all visitors to see is the Grand Mosque. It’s located in the downtown area and there’s space for about one million worshipers inside the mosque. This holy sanctuary also houses a 12-inch black stone.