Ultimate Travel Guide: Visiting Saudi Arabia’s Iconic Landmarks on Umrah

For Muslims, a trip to Saudi Arabia is not just an ordinary trip; it can transform their life and revive their faith. Millions visit the country only for the sacred sites in Makkah and Madinah. Being the birthplace of Islam and the location of the house of the Almighty on this earth, Saudi Arabia is a holy land where Muslims find peace and spirituality. Visiting Saudi Arabia’s iconic landmarks on Umrah is what every believer yearns for, and many UK Muslims like yourself embark on this journey every year. 

If you are among the lucky UK Muslims going for the pilgrimage soon, we are here with the ultimate travel guide that will help you explore the most iconic landmarks in the country. Umrah trips are not just about completing the pilgrimage rituals but also exploring the historic and religious sites. Therefore, as you look for the ideal Umrah packages, start going through guides like this one to help you plan your pilgrimage. 

Landmarks to Visit for Umrah Rituals 

Umrah rituals are not as extensive as those of the obligatory pilgrimage. There are only a few landmarks that you will have to visit during this pilgrimage. These landmarks include:

Kaaba

The Umrah rituals commence at Masjid al-Haram, the magnificent mosque that surrounds the sacred House of Allah Almighty. Performing Tawaf around the Kaaba is the highlight of both Hajj and Umrah. It shows your submission and devotion to the Almighty. Moreover, this circling reminds you of your ultimate purpose in life and conveys the message of Tauheed. Therefore, the first place you will likely visit during your Umrah is this glorious mosque. No doubt a trip to this landmark will alter your brain chemistry and will refresh and revive your faith. 

Zamzam Well 

The Zamzam Well is a miracle of the Almighty that every Muslim is familiar with. This miraculous well provides water for all the pilgrims who drink it with the hope of healing and purification. The water is accessible to all the people in Masjid al-Haram through dispensers and fountains. You can drink as much water as you want; fill your bottles and even take it home as a souvenir for your loved ones. 

Safa and Marwah 

Safa and Marwah are also two hills located within Masjid al-Haram and are one of the primary pilgrimage sites. Walking between these hills is a familiar ritual of both pilgrimages. It is reminiscent of the struggles of Hajar, the mother of Prophet Ismail (AS). This ritual teaches us the importance of having complete faith and trust in Allah Almighty. Pilgrims take their time, supplicate, and make duas while they perform this ritual. 

Other Landmarks to Visit in Makkah and Madinah

Although there are no other landmarks apart from the ones mentioned above that you must visit for your Umrah rituals, there are many sacred sites that are unmissable. Some of them include:

Masjid an-Nabwi

Masjid an-Nabwi is the most sacred mosque in Madinah. Its association with the Prophet (SAW) and Islamic history makes it an unmissable site. Therefore, every pilgrim who arrives in Makkah for the pilgrimage makes sure to visit this mosque too and pay their respects to the Holy Prophet (SAW). Moreover, the mosque features a garden reminiscent of the gardens of paradise, which brings unparalleled tranquillity and peace to the hearts of believers. Praying here also offers immense rewards. 

Jabal al-Nour

Jabal al-Nour is a prominent Islamic historic landmark located near the sacred city of Makkah. This is the site of the first revelation of the Holy Quran, and thus can be referred to as the place from where Islam started. Visiting this landmark allows you to connect with Islamic history and promises an enlightening and spiritual experience. 

Birthplace of the Prophet (SAW)

There is no denying that every Muslim might have been curious about the birthplace of the Prophet (SAW) at some point in their lives. This place is located quite near Masjid al-Haram and is an iconic landmark that pilgrims love to visit during the Hajj or Umrah. Although this is no longer a house, but a library that houses a treasure of books related to the life and Sunnah of the Prophet (SAW), it is still a worthwhile landmark to visit during your pilgrimage. 

Masjid Quba

The first mosque of Islam, Masjid Quba, is not well-documented in history and is also one of the few mosques mentioned in the Holy Quran. The Prophet (SAW) and his companions built this mosque when they migrated from Makkah to Madinah. Now, praying here not only takes you back in the early days of Islam but also yields you exceptional rewards. You will be rewarded for performing an Umrah if you offer only two rakaat prayers at this mosque. 

Summing Up

Makkah and Madinah are home to many prominent Islamic landmarks that pilgrims love to visit during their Hajj or Umrah trips. If you have also applied for an Umrah visa, it is time that you decide how you want to spend your extra time in these holy cities. There are endless landmarks and places to visit, so plan wisely and try to see as many as possible for an immersive and memorable experience.