Mosques in Makkah

Makkah, the spiritual heart of the Islamic world, is home to an array of mosques each with its unique historical and spiritual significance. As the epicenter of Islamic pilgrimage and the birthplace of many pivotal events in Islamic history, Makkah’s mosques offer not only places of worship but also rich narratives of faith and tradition. From the majestic Masjid al-Haram, encircling the sacred Kaaba, to the lesser-known yet equally significant Masjid al-Kaaki, every mosque in Makkah tells a story of its own. This guide explores 20 notable mosques in Makkah, providing insights into their significance, location, highlights, and practical tips for visitors. Whether you’re a pilgrim on a spiritual journey or a history enthusiast, this comprehensive list will help you navigate and appreciate the profound heritage embedded in these sacred sites.

 

Table of Contents

1. Masjid al-Haram
2. Masjid Aisha (Taneem)
3. Masjid Jin
4. Masjid al-Rayah (Flag Mosque)
5. Masjid al-Khayf
6. Masjid al-Bayah
7. Masjid al-Shajarah (Tree Mosque)
8. Masjid al-Hudaibiya
9. Masjid Umm al-Mu’minin Maimunah
10. Masjid al-Rajhi
11. Masjid al-Bukhari
12. Masjid al-Kur
13. Masjid Bilal
14. Masjid Jinn (Masjid Al-Haras)
15. Masjid al-Kaaki
16. Masjid Nimrah
17. Masjid Jabal al-Thawr
18. Masjid al-Kulaini
19. Masjid Huda
20. Masjid Al-Hudaibiya 

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1. Masjid al-Haram

 

• Identity: The holiest mosque in Islam surrounding the Kaaba, the focal point for Muslim prayers.
• Location: Central Makkah, near the Kaaba.
• Highlights: Home to the Kaaba, Safa and Marwa, and the Zamzam well.
• Tour Tips: Visit during non-peak hours for a more serene experience; ensure modest dressing.
• Nearby Hotels: Al Marwa Rayhaan by Rotana, Hilton Makkah Convention Hotel, Swissotel Makkah.

 

 

2. Masjid Aisha (Taneem)

 

• Identity: Known as the Miqat mosque for pilgrims to start their Umrah.
• Location: Taneem area, 8 km from Masjid al-Haram.
• Highlights: Used as a Miqat for those within Makkah to don Ihram for Umrah.
• Tour Tips: Ideal for those residing in Makkah who intend to perform multiple Umrahs.
• Nearby Hotels: M Hotel Makkah by Millennium, Al Kiswah Towers Hotel.

 

 

3. Masjid Jin

 

• Identity: Built where Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) recited the Quran to a group of Jinn.
• Location: Al-Masfalah District, 1.5 km from the Grand Mosque.
• Highlights: Historical significance related to the Jinn and Prophet’s teachings.
• Tour Tips: Visit during off-peak hours for fewer crowds.
• Nearby Hotels: Conrad Makkah, Fairmont Makkah Clock Royal Tower.

 

 

4. Masjid al-Rayah (Flag Mosque)

 

• Identity: Built at the spot where Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) raised the flag during the conquest of Makkah.
• Location: Near Jabal al-Nur, Makkah.
• Highlights: Historical relevance to the conquest of Makkah.
• Tour Tips: Combine this visit with a trip to Jabal al-Nur (Cave of Hira).
• Nearby Hotels: Jabal Omar Hyatt Regency, Anjum Hotel Makkah.

 

 

5. Masjid al-Khayf

 

• Identity: A mosque located in Mina, used during Hajj for prayers.
• Location: Mina, near Jamarat.
• Highlights: Traditionally known as the place where many prophets prayed.
• Tour Tips: Visit during Hajj for a significant spiritual experience.
• Nearby Hotels: Al Eiman Grand Hotel, Pullman Zamzam Makkah.

 

6. Masjid al-Bayah

 

• Identity: Commemorates the site where the first pledge of Aqabah took place.
• Location: Mina, near the Jamarat bridge.
• Highlights: Historical connection to the Islamic pledge during Prophet Muhammad’s time.
• Tour Tips: Visit during Hajj, preferably during less crowded hours.
• Nearby Hotels: Al Safwah Royale Orchid, Elaf Ajyad Hotel.

 

7. Masjid al-Shajarah (Tree Mosque)

 

• Identity: Associated with the miracle of the tree moving towards Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
• Location: South of Makkah, on the road to Jeddah.
• Highlights: The site of a significant miracle in Islamic history.
• Tour Tips: A peaceful spot for reflection and prayer.
• Nearby Hotels: Millennium Makkah Al Naseem, Saraya Taba Hotel.

 

8. Masjid al-Hudaibiya

 

• Identity: Built at the site of the Hudaibiya Treaty between Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and Quraysh.
• Location: Outside Makkah, towards Jeddah, around 20 km from the city.
• Highlights: The treaty played a critical role in Islamic history.
• Tour Tips: Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid heat.
• Nearby Hotels: Makarem Umm Al Qura Hotel, Nawazi Watheer Hotel.

 

9. Masjid Umm al-Mu’minin Maimunah

 

• Identity: Built at the site where the Prophet married Maimunah bint Al-Harith.
• Location: Sarif, 20 km from Makkah on the Madinah road.
• Highlights: Associated with one of the Prophet’s marriages.
• Tour Tips: Combine this visit with other historic sites on the same route.
• Nearby Hotels: Sheraton Makkah Jabal Al Kaaba, Jabal Omar Marriott.

 

10. Masjid al-Rajhi

 

• Identity: A large modern mosque funded by the Rajhi family.
• Location: Kudai District, Makkah.
• Highlights: Impressive modern architecture and spacious prayer halls.
• Tour Tips: Visit during Ramadan for a well-organized Iftar and Tarawih experience.
• Nearby Hotels: Nawazi Al Falah Hotel, Al Shohada Hotel.

 

11. Masjid al-Bukhari

 

• Identity: A small mosque located near Jabal al-Nur.
• Location: Jabal al-Nur, near the Cave of Hira.
• Highlights: Proximity to the Cave of Hira, ideal for pilgrims.
• Tour Tips: Combine with a hike up Jabal al-Nur for a complete experience.
• Nearby Hotels: Makkah Millennium Hotel, Anjum Hotel Makkah.

 

12. Masjid al-Kur

 

• Identity: A mosque near the birthplace of the Prophet’s grandfather.
• Location: Al-Misfalah District, Makkah.
• Highlights: Significant for its proximity to the Prophet’s family history.
• Tour Tips: Visit for an insight into Makkah’s historical roots.
• Nearby Hotels: Makarem Ajyad Makkah Hotel, Al Rawda Al Misk Hotel.

 

13. Masjid Bilal

 

• Identity: Named after Bilal ibn Rabah, the first Mu’adhin in Islam.
• Location: Near Masjid al-Haram, Makkah.
• Highlights: Honors Bilal’s contribution as the first caller to prayer in Islam.
• Tour Tips: Visit before or after prayers at Masjid al-Haram for convenience.
• Nearby Hotels: Le Méridien Towers Makkah, Hilton Suites Makkah.

 

14. Masjid Jinn (Masjid Al-Haras)

 

• Identity: Associated with the Prophet’s interaction with Jinn during his mission.
• Location: Al-Masfalah District, Makkah.
• Highlights: Linked to Islamic eschatology and spirituality.
• Tour Tips: Visit during daylight hours for easy access.
• Nearby Hotels: Makkah Hotel, Swissotel Al Maqam.

 

15. Masjid al-Kaaki

 

• Identity: A modern mosque named after a notable Saudi family.
• Location: Al-Shisha District, Makkah.
• Highlights: Elegant architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
• Tour Tips: A serene spot for worship outside the hustle of central Makkah.
• Nearby Hotels: Al Safwah Hotel, Elaf Al Mashaer Hotel.

 

16. Masjid Nimrah

 

• Identity: Located in Arafat, a key mosque for Hajj rituals.
• Location: Arafat, southeast of Makkah.
• Highlights: Site of the Prophet’s Farewell Sermon.
• Tour Tips: Ideal for Hajj pilgrims, especially during the Day of Arafah.
• Nearby Hotels: Al Khozama Hotel, Retaj Al Rayyan Makkah.

 

17. Masjid Jabal al-Thawr

 

• Identity: Near the cave where the Prophet and Abu Bakr took refuge.
• Location: Jabal Thawr, south of Makkah.
• Highlights: Historical significance related to the Hijrah.
• Tour Tips: Visit early morning for a calm experience and spiritual reflection.
• Nearby Hotels: Hilton Makkah Towers, Dar Al Tawhid Intercontinental.

 

18. Masjid al-Kulaini

 

• Identity: Small but historic, close to the Prophet’s migration route.
• Location: Al Aziziyah District, Makkah.
• Highlights: Historical roots connected to early Islamic history.
• Tour Tips: Best visited during a walking tour of Makkah’s historical areas.
• Nearby Hotels: Dar Al Eiman Ajyad, Elaf Al Salam Hotel.

 

19. Masjid Huda

 

• Identity: Known for its location along the migration route to Madinah.
• Location: Al Aziziyah District, Makkah.
• Highlights: Proximity to important Islamic historical sites.
• Tour Tips: Combine with a visit to other migration route landmarks.
• Nearby Hotels: Jabal Omar Hilton Suites, Makarem Umm Al Qura.

 

20. Masjid Al-Hudaibiya (New)

 

• Identity: A newly built mosque at the historic site of the Hudaibiya treaty.
• Location: 20 km from Makkah, towards Jeddah.
• Highlights: Represents the extension and modernization of the original mosque.
• Tour Tips: Ideal for those interested in both spiritual and historical exploration.
• Nearby Hotels: Millennium Makkah Al Naseem, Swissotel Al Maqam.

 

 

Conclusion

 

Exploring the mosques of Makkah offers a deeply enriching experience, blending spiritual reflection with a journey through Islamic history. Each mosque, from the revered Masjid al-Haram to the historic Masjid al-Hudaibiya, contributes to the rich tapestry of Makkah’s religious landscape. As you visit these sacred sites, you not only connect with centuries of devotion but also gain a deeper appreciation of the profound spiritual heritage of Islam. We hope this guide enhances your visit, providing valuable insights and helping you to experience Makkah’s mosques in their full historical and spiritual context. May your journey be filled with enlightenment and reverence as you walk in the footsteps of the faithful and witness the landmarks of a timeless faith.

Visiting the mosques in Makkah offers a deeply spiritual experience. Each mosque has its own unique story and significance. For an enriching journey, consider the travel services from Zamzamtravels. We offer comprehensive packages that cater to your spiritual needs and ensure a memorable pilgrimage.

 

What We Offer 

Comprehensive Hajj and Umrah packages

Visa Services

Air Ticketing

Guided Tour

Hotel Booking 

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For more details and to book your pilgrimage, contact us.

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FAQs

 

How many mosques are in Makkah?

Makkah is home to many mosques, with hundreds spread throughout the city. Each mosque has its unique history and significance.

 

What is the most famous mosque in Makkah?

The most famous mosque in Makkah is Masjid al-Haram, which houses the Kaaba and is the holiest site in Islam.

 

Can non-Muslims visit the mosques in Makkah?

No, non-Muslims are not permitted to enter Makkah or its mosques.

 

What is the best time to visit the mosques in Makkah?

Early mornings and late evenings are ideal for visiting to avoid large crowds.

 

Are there guided tours available for these mosques?

Yes, many tour operators, including zamzam travels, offer guided tours of the mosques in Makkah.