Top Destinations to Visit During Your Umrah Trip
Millions of Muslims travel annually to Saudi Arabia on a very spiritual journey, planning an Umrah trip. However, this pilgrimage also provides chances to visit some of the most beloved Islamic monuments, historic sites, and cultural sites outside the holy Makkah and Madinah ceremonies.
With advice, actual experiences, and answers to frequent questions, this blog will guide you through the best places to see on your Umrah journey. First-time or returning pilgrim, you will find inspiration for increasing the value of your trip.
🌟 More Than a Journey
Although a lovely act of worship, Umrah can be done outside of ceremonies only. From the holy Masjid al-Haram to the quiet roads of Madinah, and the great historical heritage distributed all across Saudi Arabia, there's much more to discover.
Leave nothing to chance with a well-thought-out schedule:
- Expand your knowledge of the Islamic past.
- Fortify your spiritual bonds.
- Maximize your trip to the holy lands.
The top sights in Umrah that should not be missed will be discussed next.
Top Places to Visit in Makkah
1. Masjid al-Haram and the Kaaba
Beginning at the Masjid al-Haram, the biggest mosque globally and home to the Kaaba, the most sacred place in Islam, let's focus on the core of Umrah. Every inch of this holy ground shines with spirituality.
One expert once claimed the first viewing of the Kaaba to be "the most soul-shattering moment a Muslim can experience."
2. Jabal al-Nour alongside the Cave of Hira
Jabal al-Nour, a small distance from Makkah, is the mountain that is home to the Cave of Hira, where the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) received the first revelation. Although it is a difficult ascent, pilgrims frequently call it life-transforming.
In 2024, a set of Turkish pilgrims recorded their ascent up Jabal al-Nour, emphasizing the powerful emotional bond they experienced as they entered the cave.
3. Jannat al-Mu'alla
Among other prominent followers, this cemetery is the resting place of the wife of the Prophet, Khadijah (RA).. Early Islamic history is soberly brought to light, and a moment for contemplation is presented.
4. Abraj Al-Bait (Clock Tower Complex)
Though it is more contemporary, the Abraj Al-Bait development provides an amazing panoramic vista of the Haram. A museum dedicated to the history of the Kaaba and the Islamic lunar calendar is located here as well.
Madinah's Not To Be Missed Sites
1. Al-Masjid an-Nabawi (The Prophet’s Mosque)
Important second to the Kaaba in value, the Prophet's Mosque has to be visited. Known as a garden of Paradise, Rawdah is the region between the pulpit of the Prophet Muhammad's (PBUH) house. Don't pass up the opportunity to see it.
2. Quba Mosque
Islam's first mosque ever constructed is here. The foundation of the Prophet (PBUH) himself is established here. There is great benefit in praying here.
Stat Alert: According to a hadith in Sunan Ibn Majah 1412, performing two rak’ahs at Quba is equal to the reward of one Umrah.
3. Qiblatain Mosque (Two Directions)
This mosque is where the Qiblah shifted from Jerusalem to Makkah. It is a strong symbol of Islamic history.
4. Mount Uhud and the Battlefield
The renowned Battle of Uhud occurred on Mount Uhud. The site includes the graves of martyrs, including the beloved Hamza ibn Abdul Muttalib (RA), the Prophet’s uncle.
Saudi Arabia's historical sites are worth seeing during the Umrah
Apart from Makkah and Madinah, many historic and cultural sites can be seen to enhance your spiritual path.
1. Taif
Is the place where the Prophet (PBUH) sought shelter and suffered, just a two-hour drive from Makkah. Today, it is renowned for its roses, cool temperatures, and peace. A jewel of culture is the Shubra Palace.
2. Al Ula and Madain Saleh
These UNESCO World Heritage sites are a sort of Arabian Petra and feature pre-Islamic Nabatean tombs. Though not religious sites, their history is deep and they provide a wider perspective of the past of the Arabian Peninsula.
3. Badr
Seated at the juncture of Makkah and Madinah, the conflict of Badr's location is important. Not a popular destination, but those visiting say it is extremely poignant.
🌄 Trips Throughout Umrah
Explore these enriching day trips from Makkah or Madinah, should you have a few more days:
- Taif (from Makkah): Taif is known for its history and cool mountain air
- Badr (from Madinah): It's one of Islam's most important battles to consider.
- Yanbu (from Madinah): A seaside town ideal for a calm day on the Red Sea.
- Jeddah (from either): The Floating Mosque, bazaars, and cultural appeal define a lively city.
🙋♀️ Which are the must-see historic sites in Makkah during Umrah?
- Cave of Hira, along with Jabal al-Nour.
- Where the Prophet (PBUH) and Abu Bakr (RA) were concealed during the Hijrah, Jabal Thawr.
- Cmetery at Jannat al-Mu'alla
- Linked with the Prophet's recitation to the jinn as Masjid al-Jinn
In Madinah, what other important Islamic sites would I see?
- Masjid an-Nabawi, the Mosque of the Prophet.
- Mount Uhud, as well as the Martyrs' Cemetery, and Qiblatain Mosque.
Are there any day trips advised from Makkah or Madinah during Umrah?
Definitely.
These are a few:
- From Makkah: Taif, Jeddah and Hudaibiyah.
- From Madinah: Badr, Yanbu, and Khaybar.
Each presents Islam and Arabian history from a different point of view.
📅 When in the year is best to do Umrah?
Most often and most comfortable times are:
- Ramadan: Very busy but spiritually wealthy.
- Rabi al-Awwal: The month of the Prophet’s birth.
- March and April: Beautiful temperatures and sensible traffic volume.
- Lower expenditures and fewer pilgrims follow the Hajj Season (Muharram–Safar).
Due to intense heat, you can best dodge peak summer months (June–August).
👩Without a mahram, can women do Umrah?
Saudi Arabia does permit women to perform Umrah without a mahram, provided they travel in organized groups or with recognized agencies, as of 2021. This is a considerable change that will enable Muslim women all over to undertake Umrah.
🙌 Outcome: A Journey of the Soul
Your Umrah trip is more than a list of practices; it is a journey that links your spirit to millennia of Islamic legacy, faith, and history. Investigating these top sights to see during your Umrah trip will not only satisfy your religious obligations but also follow the routes of prophets, companions, and centuries of believers.
Take your time. Reflect. Explore. Pray. Let this journey be one that fills your heart and stays with you for a lifetime.
We would love to know your experience if you have done Umrah and gone to any of these locations! What touched your heart the most? Share it with those preparing their holy trip or drop it in the comments.
May your Umrah be accepted and your path always be filled with light. Ameen. 🌙
