King Abdulaziz International Airport to Makkah
Mecca: Holy City of the Islamic World
Mecca is a holy city in the Hejaz region in western Saudi Arabia and is of great importance to the Islamic world. Millions of Muslims flock to this city every year to perform the Hajj pilgrimage. Mecca is also the birthplace of Islam. Mecca is a spiritual center for millions of Muslims around the world.
Historical and Cultural Importance
Mecca is the city where Islam was born. It is where the Prophet Muhammad was born and received revelation. The city is home to the Kaaba, Islam’s holiest shrine. Millions of Muslims visit the Kaaba every year.
Mecca’s history dates back to the 2nd century BC. The city was a center of trade in pre-Islamic times. Mecca also has a historical significance as the place where the Prophet Muhammad fought in the early years of Islam.
Places to visit
Kaaba and Masjid al-Haram: The Kaaba is the holiest building in the Islamic world. It is the place of worship to which Muslims are directed. Masjid al-Haram is the large mosque surrounding the Kaaba and is one of the most crowded mosques in the world. This area is a center of worship where pilgrims and Umrah visitors gather.
Arafat Hill: Arafat is one of the most important points of the Hajj pilgrimage. It is a holy place where pilgrims pray every year. During the Hajj season, millions of Muslims climb this hill and pray to Allah.
Hira Cave: The Cave of Hira is the cave where the Prophet Muhammad received the first revelation. This mountain has a great spiritual significance for the Islamic world. Hira Cave is outside Mecca.
Zamzam Well: It is a holy water well located near the Kaaba. This water is a great source of healing according to Islamic belief.
Modern Mecca
In addition to its historical and religious significance, Mecca also attracts attention with its modern buildings. The city’s luxury hotels, shopping malls, wide roads and transportation investments have been made to ensure that pilgrims can perform their prayers in comfort.
Climate and Visiting Time
Mecca has a desert climate. Temperatures can be quite high in summer. The best time to visit is during the winter months (October to March).
Why Visit Mecca?
Mecca is one of the most important cities in the world, both religiously and historically. For believers in Islam, visiting the Kaaba is both a spiritual responsibility and an unforgettable lifelong experience. Mecca is not just a city, but the heart of a faith and civilization.
Transportation Options from Jeddah to Mecca
Mecca is approximately 70 kilometers from Jeddah. The drive from Jeddah to Makkah takes approximately 1-1.5 hours. You can easily get from King Abdulaziz International Airport to Mecca by taxi, rental car or bus.
You can go to Mecca from King Abdulaziz International Airport by SAPTCO buses. The bus ride takes approximately 1 and a half to 2 hours. One-way ticket prices are usually between SAR 15-30.
You can rent a car from King Abdulaziz International Airport and drive to Mecca. The daily car rental fee usually varies between SAR 150-250.
What is the cheapest way to get from Jeddah to Mecca?
The cheapest way to get from Jeddah to Mecca is by driving, costing around $6–$9 and taking about 1 hour.
What is the fastest way to get from Jeddah to Mecca?
The fastest way to get from Jeddah to Mecca is by taxi and train, taking about 45 minutes and costing around $35–$64.
Is there a direct bus between Jeddah and Mecca?
Yes, there is a direct bus departing from Jeddah and arriving at Makkah. Services depart four times a day and the journey takes about 1.5 hours.
How far is it from Jeddah to Mecca?
The distance between Jeddah and Mecca is approximately 91 kilometers (56 miles) in a straight line and about 81 kilometers (50 miles) by road.
How do I travel from Jeddah to Mecca without a car?
Travel from Jeddah to Mecca without a car by taking a taxi and train, which takes about 45 minutes and costs around $35–$64.
How long does it take to get from Jeddah to Mecca?
It takes about 45 minutes to get from Jeddah to Mecca, including transfers.
Where do I catch the Jeddah to Mecca bus from?
Jeddah to Mecca bus services, operated by SAPTCO, depart from Jeddah station.
Where does the Jeddah to Mecca bus arrive?
Jeddah to Mecca bus services, operated by SAPTCO, arrive at Makkah station.
Can I drive from Jeddah to Mecca?
Yes, you can drive from Jeddah to Mecca. The driving distance is about 81 kilometers (50 miles) and it takes about 1 hour.
Where can I stay near Mecca?
There are over 600 hotels available in Mecca, with nightly rates starting from around $45.