Top 10 Holy Sites in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is the origin of Islam. It is home to the holiest places in Islam, which enlighten Muslims’ hearts. Imagine visiting the sacred house of the Almighty, the last resting place of the Prophet (SAW), the first mosque in Islam, or the historic Miqat sites. The country has it all. So, how is it possible that a Muslim’s heart does not yearn to be here? The top holy sites in Saudi Arabia promise unmatched peace and spiritual revival.
Are you one of the many US citizens looking forward to a spiritually enlightening experience soon? It is time to start looking for Umrah deals as soon as possible. Booking the right Umrah deal will be the first step of your pilgrimage preparation. These packages also ensure that you don’t have to worry about the standard things like visa, flight, and accommodation for your Umrah. You can focus on the most significant things, like getting closer to the Almighty and the holy sites you must visit during this journey. Here are some of the sacred sites that you should visit while you are in Saudi Arabia.
- The Holy Kaaba:
The holiest of all the sacred sites, the Holy Kaaba surely deserves the top position in the list of the top holy sites in Saudi Arabia. Muslims have to turn in the direction of this cubic structure no matter where they are in the world for their daily prayers as it is their Qibla. Also, the Holy Kaaba is known as the house of the Almighty in this world. And performing Tawaf around it is one of the main pilgrimage rituals of both Hajj and Umrah according to the commands of the Almighty and the Sunnah of the Prophet (SAW). Therefore, if you are going to Saudi Arabia for the pilgrimage, this might be the first holy site you will visit. - Masjid an-Nabawi:
Masjid an-Nabwi is undoubtedly the second most sacred site for the Muslims. Even though you don’t have to visit it as an obligatory ritual of your pilgrimage, no pilgrim returns without visiting it. This explains the mosque’s significance and unique place in the hearts of Muslims. As the mosque houses the tomb of the Holy Prophet (SAW), there is an unmatched tranquility and spirituality here that believers in Islam don’t get anywhere else. You also get immense rewards for praying at this sacred mosque. If you plan to go to Umrah from Chicago soon, add a trip to the holy city of Medina to your itinerary to experience the sanctity and peace of this mosque. - Zamzam Well in the Grand Mosque:
This historic and sacred place doesn’t need an introduction for the Muslims. Zamzam well is located within the Grand Mosque and is one of the most prominent miracles of the Almighty. As Muslims, we hear the story of Hazrat Ismail (AS) and his mother, Hagar, who were left in the desert by Prophet Ibrahim (AS) on the command of Allah Almighty. As they were stranded in the desert, Allah Almighty sent His miraculous help in the form of a well. This well supplies water endlessly to this day, and Muslims can drink it as much as they want during their pilgrimage. - Mount Arafat:
Mount Arafat is where the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) delivered his famous last sermon, in which he declared the completion of Islam. It is also the site of the grand sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim (AS). Muslims believe they will be gathered on this mountain on the Day of Judgement. To top it all off, it is also a prominent Hajj pilgrimage site. With so many historical events and exceptional religious significance, Mount Arafat is an unmissable holy site in the country. - Cave Hira:
Have you heard the story of the first revelation? Prophet Muhammad (SAW) was visited by Angel Jibrail with the first few verses of the Holy Quran while meditating in Cave Hira. This cave is where the Prophet (SAW) meditated, making it a significant part of Islamic history. While exploring the holy sites in Mecca, you will have a chance to see this cave closely. Visiting it is truly an enlightening experience. - Masjid Quba:
Imagine praying two Rakats of a prayer at a mosque and getting rewarded for performing an Umrah. Masjid Quba promises this immense reward. Isn’t it incredible? Also, you will be surprised to know that this mosque in Medina is also mentioned in the Holy Quran and history regards it as the earliest mosque in Islam. Make sure to visit this incredible mosque that the Almighty has also considered a place built on righteousness and gain the exceptional rewards of praying here. - Mina:
Another Hajj pilgrimage site near Mecca is Mina. People also know it as the tent city because hundreds of tents line the streets for the pilgrims who come to stay the night to complete their Hajj rituals. If you visit the country for Umrah, you will not have to see Mina for your pilgrimage rituals, but you can still visit it to experience its spirituality. It is also a must-visit place to explore all the Hajj pilgrimage sites. - Cave Thawr:
This is another cave that Muslims hear about from the historic stories of the Prophet (SAW). Allah Almighty helped the Prophet (SAW) and one of his closest companions when the pagans of Mecca tried to pursue them and kill them before they could arrive in Medina. Visiting the cave will enlighten you about the historic story and give you a memorable experience. - Jannat al-Baqi Cemetery:
One of the earliest cemeteries built in the sacred city of Medina, Jannat al-Baqi is truly a heaven on earth with the Prophet’s (SAW) beloved souls resting here. It is considered a highly revered site in Islam and is an excellent place to visit if you want to learn more about your faith’s history and pay your respects to some of the most prominent figures in Islam. Muslims can see it as a connection to the legacy of Islam. - Mount Uhud:
This mountain is the site of one of the most prominent battles in Islam, the Battle of Uhud. The Prophet (SAW) led his army and fought this battle against the Quraysh. Therefore, believers in Islam prefer visiting it because of its exceptional historical significance. You will find graves of many martyrs here, a truly enlightening experience that connects you to Islamic history.
Do you want to have the most remarkable journey around the top holy sites in Saudi Arabia? If so, it is time for you to apply for an Umrah visa and start planning your pilgrimage. You can add the above-mentioned holy sites to your itinerary, but there are many more. So, know all the sacred sites you don’t want to miss during your spiritual retreat to Saudi Arabia. And get ready to have the most enlightening and spiritually reviving journey soon.