The sacred sites in Makkah and Madinah that Hajj pilgrims have a chance to experience

Visitors climb Thawr Mountain overlooking Makkah. (Getty Images)
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Updated 18 June 2024
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The sacred sites in Makkah and Madinah that Hajj pilgrims have a chance to experience

  • The act of welcoming Muslim pilgrims throughout the ages has resulted in a distinct cultural identity and legacy
  • Visitors are urged to gain a deeper insight into the spiritual and historical significance of the two holy cities

JEDDAH: During the pilgrimages of Hajj and Umrah, devout Muslims seek out sites that deepen their understanding of Islam and its rich heritage.

The historical sites and archaeological museums in Makkah Al-Mukarramah and Madinah Al-Munawara offer a profound educational experience to millions of visitors from around the world who flock to the two holy cities each year.

After completing their religious rites, such as Umrah and Tawaf, and paying their respects at the Haram, pilgrims yearn to immerse themselves in the history of Makkah and Madinah.

With histories going back thousands of years, these cities are embodiments of the origins of Islamic culture, having welcomed pilgrims down the ages and developed a distinct cultural identity in the process of doing so.




The Hira Cultural District in Makkah is among the must-visit landmarks for pilgrims. (SPA)

To grasp the historical importance of these cities and gain a deeper insight into their religious significance, visitors are urged to venture beyond the well-known landmarks like Jannat Ul Mua’lla, the Cave of Hira in Jabal Al-Nour, Mount Arafat and Masjid-e-Ayesha.

Nestled beside the renowned Jabal Al-Nour, the Hira Cultural District offers a distinctive fusion of cultural, historical, and engaging encounters. Encompassing 67,000 square meters, this district offers pilgrims an immersive voyage through time, enabling them to forge a connection with the vibrant history of Makkah.

Near the Haram lies the historic site of Hudaibiyah, where Prophet Muhammad signed the crucial treaty of Hudaibiyah. A mosque now stands at the site, alongside a weathered structure of unknown origin.




A mosque now stands in the historic site of Hudaibiyah, where Prophet Muhammad signed the crucial treaty of Hudaibiyah. (Supplied)

In 809, during a time of extreme water scarcity in Makkah, Queen Zubaida, the wife of Abbasid Caliph Harun Rashid, undertook a pilgrimage to the holy city. Witnessing the challenging conditions faced by pilgrims, she took immediate action by ordering the construction of the Zubaida Canal.

This canal, built more than a thousand years ago, has continued to supply water to pilgrims visiting Makkah ever since. 

Lastly, Mount Abu Qubais, where a miraculous event involving the moon occurred, serves as a reminder of divine intervention in Makkah’s scenery.

One of the must-visit attractions in Makkah is the Assalaamu Aleyka Ayyuhan Nabiyyu Museum, which educates visitors about the life of Prophet Muhammad through innovative displays and artifacts.

By providing glimpses into the type of dwelling he may have inhabited and showcasing clothing from his era, the museum offers a unique insight into his life, allowing guests to delve into the lives of his ancestors, wives, children, and descendants.




The Assalaamu Aleyka Ayyuhan Nabiyyu Museum in Makkah. (Supplied)

The collaborative effort of more than 150 scholars ensures the museum’s authenticity in religious, and archaeological details, creating a comprehensive and accurate portrayal of Prophet Muhammad’s life and legacy.

“I have been guiding pilgrims on deeply spiritual journeys for nearly 15 years, introducing them to the holy city’s lesser-known treasures,” Ahmed Khan, a private tour guide, told Arab News.

“Pilgrims are always thrilled and grateful when we visit sites where the legacy of Prophet Muhammad and the rich heritage of Islam resonate with each step.”

Another private tour guide, Aman Javaid, emphasized the importance of providing pilgrims with accurate information about the sites they visit.

“It’s crucial for me to ensure that I share all the correct details about these places,” he told Arab News. “Many pilgrims often mention the Cave of Hira, but I make it a point to take them to the Cave of Thawr as well.




The Thawr Cave, located in the Jabal Thawr mopuntain, is the place where Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his companion Abu Bakr hid from the Quraysh during the migration to Madinah. (Supplied)

“This revered site is where the Prophet Muhammad and his companion Abu Bakr sought refuge during their migration to Madinah. Sharing the story of how they escaped their enemies and found solace there always piques the pilgrims’ interest. I make sure I have comprehensive knowledge about these sacred sites.”

The Cave of Thawr underscores the importance of seeking refuge and divine guidance during adversity, marking a pivotal moment in Islamic history. Pilgrims honor the legacy of the prophet and Abu Bakr by offering prayers and paying their respects in this sacred place.

Located at the birthplace of Prophet Muhammad, the Makkah Al-Mukarramah Library serves as a hub for knowledge and research. With a collection of more than 350,000 rare books and manuscripts, this esteemed institution stands as a testament to Makkah’s cultural and intellectual heritage.

Within the King Abdulaziz Complex lies the renowned Kiswa Factory, where artisans annually produce the exquisite black silk coverings for the Holy Kaaba. Adorned with intricate silver and gold embroidery and Quranic inscriptions, these coverings are a symbol of reverence and tradition.




Inside the King Abdul Aziz Complex, workers fabricate the kiswa, the cover of the Holy Kaaba. (AN photo/File)

The factory, now known as the King Abdulaziz Complex for Kiswa, showcases the artistry of silk knitting and embroidery, preserving a centuries-old craft.

Madinah, as the second holiest city in Islam, holds immense importance for Muslims undertaking Umrah and Hajj pilgrimages. Pilgrims visit to pay their respects at renowned mosques and historical sites steeped in cultural and religious significance.

The city is home to historic mosques dating back to the time of Prophet Muhammad, offering a spiritually enriching experience.

Masjid Al-Qiblatain stands out with its traditional design and renowned twin mihrabs, where it is believed Prophet Muhammad received a divine command to change the qibla direction. Rebuilt during King Fahd’s reign, this mosque remains a beautiful and significant place for prayers in Madinah.




Masjid Al-Qiblatain, meaning “two directions,” was built two years after Prophet Mohammed arrived in Madinah, a city known for its rich Islamic history, and a customary stop for millions of Umrah and Hajj pilgrims every year. (SPA)

Another notable site is Masjid Abu Bakr, honoring the first caliph and close companion of the prophet, reflecting the deep bond between Abu Bakr and Prophet Muhammad through its modest yet serene setting and inviting visitors to draw inspiration from Abu Bakr’s unwavering faith.

Among the historic mosques in Madinah, Masjid Al-Ahzab holds a significant place in Islamic culture, marking the site of a pivotal battle where the prophet’s du’a led to victory.

Meanwhile, Masjid Al-Ghamamah, though small in size, remains an important site for seeking blessings during ziyarat in Madinah. Visitors are encouraged to respect the mosque’s guidelines, including observing prayer times and maintaining modesty, to fully appreciate the spiritual significance of these revered locations.

Another fascinating site relates to the Battle of the Trench, also known as the Khandak Battle — a significant military confrontation in 624 between the Muslims of Madinah and the Makkan army, which was attempting to suppress the spread of Islam.




The Khandak Mosque stands in the place where the Khandak Battle took place in 624 between the Muslims of Madinah and the Makkan army, which was attempting to suppress the spread of Islam. (Supplied)

Fought near the Badr wells, it proved to be a decisive victory for the Muslims, highlighting their strength and Prophet Muhammad’s leadership.

Likewise, the Garden of Hazrat Salman Farsi in Madinah is a historic site where Prophet Muhammad planted 300 date palms to free Salman Farsi from slavery. Located near Masjid Quba, the garden remains lush with date palm trees and features a date shop for visitors to enjoy tea amid the greenery.

Meanwhile, the city’s oldest museum, Al-Madinah Museum, highlights Islamic history and the life of Prophet Muhammad through rare artifacts and models of city landmarks.




A general view of the Hira Cultural District in Makkah. (SPA)

Similarly, As Safiyyah Museum and Park, located near the Prophet’s Mosque, offers a unique cultural experience with a focus on educational enrichment and enjoyment.

The centerpiece is the Story of Creation Museum, which utilizes advanced technology to visually depict the creation narrative.




Madinah's Safiyyah Museum and Park, located near the Prophet’s Mosque. (Supplied)

Finally, the Hejaz Railway Museum is housed in the historic railway station and provides insights into the significance of the Hejaz Railway, which was built to facilitate pilgrimages to the holy cities. The museum displays vintage locomotives, historical photographs, and documents detailing the railway’s history.

These sites not only deepen pilgrims’ understanding of Islamic history but also foster a greater appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Through these visits, pilgrims connect with the legacy of their faith, making their pilgrimage a truly holistic journey.
 

 


Golden-backed weaver builds its nest in the mountains of Asir

Updated 10 sec ago
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Golden-backed weaver builds its nest in the mountains of Asir

  • Small yellow bird gets its name from the elaborate nests its constructs using its strong beaks and claws
  • Male bird structures the nest by manipulating threads of grass through its claws and beak, resulting in precise geometric shapes

RIYADH: Golden-backed weavers, known for their remarkable nest-building skills, are thriving in the majestic mountains of Asir, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The small yellow bird gets its name from the elaborate nests its constructs using its strong beaks and claws.

Golden-backed weavers (Ploceus jacksoni) first select an area where they want to build a nest, typically choosing the small branches of a tree. They start with a ring of woven straw or grass and then complete the structure by intersecting threads at a specific angle.

The nest usually hangs from the branch to offer safe shelter for the bird’s offspring. The opening to the nest is narrow and faces downward to protect the young chicks from predators and other birds or animals.

Golden-backed weavers are known for their weaving ability, and are one of the most highly skilled species in the wild, according to SPA.

Additionally, the male bird structures the nest by manipulating threads of grass through its claws and beak, resulting in precise geometric shapes.

The bird has unique colors, with either a black or a brown head, and yellow feathers covering its entire body.

Golden-backed weavers, along with many other bird species, thrive in the southern Asir region due to its moderate temperatures, varied plant environment, and biodiversity.

The region has an area of 81,000 sq. km, and borders Yemen in the southeast and the Jazan region in the southwest.

Almost 500 species of birds have been recorded in Saudi Arabia, along with a variety of wildlife and 2,400 flowering plants, according to estimates.


Saudi team joins training on rainwater harvesting in China

Updated 48 min 23 sec ago
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Saudi team joins training on rainwater harvesting in China

  • Team includes 12 specialists from the ministry’s water agency, the Saudi Irrigation Organization, and the NCVC
  • Course, being held in Lanzhou, China, from July 3-22, focuses on rainwater harvesting technologies and their applications

RIYADH: A Saudi team from the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture is taking part in a training program organized by the Gansu Academy of Agricultural Sciences in cooperation with the Chinese Ministry of Commerce.

The team includes 12 specialists from the ministry’s water agency, the Saudi Irrigation Organization, and the National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Tuesday.

The course, being held in Lanzhou, China, from July 3-22, focuses on rainwater harvesting technologies and their applications. It is attended by representatives from China’s Ministry of Water Resources, along with several water experts and specialists.

The ministry said its participation aligns with efforts to implement international agreements and memoranda of understanding with partner countries. The course provides a unique platform for exchanging expertise in water-related fields, particularly rainwater harvesting, it added.

The course also covers the design of harvesting systems in rural and urban areas, improvement of collected water quality management and advanced purification technologies, the SPA added.

Supplementary irrigation techniques, economic evaluation of harvesting projects, concepts of sponge cities, water reuse, and the role of harvesting technologies in combating desertification and promoting sustainability are also explored.

The ministry said that the training features scientific lectures, practical workshops and field visits to innovative projects in several Chinese provinces.

The visits showcase systems for securing drinking water from rain, irrigated agriculture projects, sponge city initiatives, and integrated environmental models linking water technologies with urban and rural sustainability.

The ministry highlighted the importance of strengthening international cooperation and building national capacity in water management, according to the SPA.

This reflects its integrated approach to developing technical competencies, exchanging expertise with leading countries, advancing the water system and promoting sustainable, innovative solutions to water challenges in line with Vision 2030 goals.


Saudi students compete in global chemistry contest

Updated 08 July 2025
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Saudi students compete in global chemistry contest

  • The event is being held in Dubai until July 14, with more than 300 students from around the world competing for awards

RIYADH: Saudi students are taking part in the 57th International Chemistry Olympiad, the world’s largest high school chemistry competition.

The event is being held in Dubai until July 14, with more than 300 students from around the world competing for awards.

The scientific team has completed the review and translation of the practical exam for the Saudi students, who are preparing to take their first test, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Tuesday.

This year, the Kingdom is represented by four students who have undergone thousands of hours of intensive training under the supervision of the King Abdulaziz and His Companions Foundation for Giftedness and Creativity, in partnership with the Ministry of Education.

The students are Rand Al-Hassan Awadhah (Riyadh), Haider Yasser Al-Dubaissi (Eastern Province), Ammar Mohammed Al-Turkistani (Jeddah) and Ali Ahmed Baouzir (Riyadh).

Saudi Arabia has earned 45 awards in past International Chemistry Olympiads, held annually since 1968 in different countries. These include 15 silver medals, 28 bronze medals and two certificates of appreciation.

The olympiad promotes international collaboration in chemistry and encourages young talent to solve complex scientific problems through innovative thinking.

It also serves as a platform for cultural exchange and academic excellence, and supports the development of future leaders in science and technology.


Saudi Arabia reaffirms support for Afghanistan’s security, stability 

Updated 08 July 2025
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Saudi Arabia reaffirms support for Afghanistan’s security, stability 

  • Envoy highlights Saudi humanitarian aid, calls for global cooperation at UN session in New York

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s permanent representative to the UN, Ambassador Abdulaziz Al-Wasil, has reaffirmed the Kingdom’s support for Afghanistan’s security and stability, emphasizing the importance of respect for its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Speaking during a UN General Assembly session in New York on the situation in Afghanistan, Al-Wasil expressed the Kingdom’s concern over the humanitarian and economic challenges facing the Afghan people.

He called for intensified international efforts to provide urgent relief and essential support to ease their suffering, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Tuesday.

The envoy highlighted the Kingdom’s humanitarian assistance to the Afghan people through its aid agency, KSrelief. He underscored the importance of empowering Afghan women by promoting their rights in education, employment, and public life. 

Al-Wasil also emphasized the critical need to prevent Afghan territory from being used as a base for terrorist activities or drug trafficking, warning of the threats these pose to regional and global security.

He reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s commitment to continuing its support for political, humanitarian, and development initiatives aimed at stabilizing Afghanistan. 

So far, KSrelief has implemented 57 projects worth almost $54 million in Afghanistan, according to the agency’s website. 

The projects cover food security, health, education, water and sanitation, as well as humanitarian emergency relief coordination.


Ithra Children’s Festival inspires creativity, curiosity

Updated 08 July 2025
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Ithra Children’s Festival inspires creativity, curiosity

  • The festival combines creativity, learning, play, and exploration in an interactive setting

RIYADH: The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture, Ithra, on Monday launched its inaugural Children’s Festival, themed “What If?”, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The festival combines creativity, learning, play, and exploration in an interactive setting to foster critical thinking, nurture imagination, and develop essential skills.

Running until July 26 at Ithra’s headquarters in Dhahran, the festival offers 50 activities designed to spark curiosity and inspire creative thinking.

These include hands-on workshops, live performances, water and family challenges, art spaces that encourage exploration and questioning, and a book exchange where children can swap books.

An interactive exhibition allows children to transform large white models into colorful artworks using foam tubes, the SPA reported.

The festival will also host the fifth Children’s Book Fair from July 14-19, featuring 20 local and international publishers specializing in children’s and young adult literature.

This year’s fair highlights South Korea as the guest of honor, with book signings, panel discussions, workshops, and opportunities to meet experts.