can a christian travel to mecca

Exploring Faith: Can a Christian Visit Mecca?🕋

• November 10, 2023

Welcome to our exploration of one of the most commonly asked questions regarding Mecca: Can a Christian visit the holy city? Mecca, alongside Medina, holds a significant role in Islamic faith and history, as the birthplace of Prophet Muhammad and home to the sacred Kaaba. In this article, we will delve into the rules and restrictions surrounding non-Muslim access to Mecca, providing insights into the religious and cultural considerations behind this exclusivity.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways:

• Mecca and Medina are off-limits to non-Muslims due to Islamic teachings and historical significance.
• The ban on non-Muslims entering Mecca is strictly enforced by the Saudi Arabian government.
• Verification processes at checkpoints and passport checks at arrival registration counters are in place to ensure only Muslims enter Mecca.
• Converted Muslims can visit Mecca, provided they have proof of their conversion.
• Non-Muslims, including Christians, Hindus, and Jews, are not permitted to enter Mecca.

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Can a Christian Visit Mecca

Why are non-muslims not allowed in mecca or medina.

Non-Muslims are not allowed in Mecca and Medina due to their status as the holiest cities in Islam. Islamic teachings emphasize the exclusive nature of these cities, reserving them solely for Muslims. The sacredness and purity associated with Mecca and Medina are deeply rooted in the Quran and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad.

The ban on non-Muslims entering Mecca and Medina has been in place for centuries and is strictly enforced by the Saudi Arabian government. It serves multiple purposes, including preserving the spiritual significance of these cities and ensuring the safety and security of pilgrims. By restricting access to non-Muslims, the sanctity of Mecca and Medina is safeguarded, and the religious and cultural identity of these cities is maintained.  can a christian visit mecca

The exclusivity of Mecca and Medina highlights the importance of respecting and understanding religious customs and traditions. It is essential to recognize that these restrictions are rooted in religious beliefs and should be respected by individuals of different faiths.  christian pilgrimage to mecca

“The ban on non-Muslims entering Mecca and Medina is a testament to the reverence and devotion Muslims have for these holy cities. It is a way of safeguarding the sanctity and significance of these places of worship.”

Overall, the ban on non-Muslims entering Mecca and Medina is a fundamental aspect of Islamic faith and tradition. It is enforced to preserve the sanctity and exclusivity of these cities, while also ensuring the safety and security of pilgrims. Understanding and respecting these restrictions is crucial when considering visits to religiously significant sites.

How Do They Check if You Are Muslim in Mecca?

In order to maintain the sanctity and religious significance of Mecca, the Saudi government has implemented a verification process to ensure that only Muslims enter the city. This process involves several checks and measures to identify and confirm the religious status of visitors. rules for christian visiting mecca

Entrance Requirements:

At checkpoints and barriers leading to Mecca, visitors are required to present their Hajj or Umrah visas along with their identification cards that indicate their religion. This documentation serves as proof that the individual is a Muslim and eligible to enter Mecca for pilgrimage. christianity and mecca

Behavior and Dress:

In addition to the documentation checks, officers also observe the behavior and dress of visitors to ensure that they adhere to Islamic norms and customs. This includes modest clothing, respectful conduct, and adherence to Islamic practices.

Additional Measures:

The Saudi government also conducts passport checks at arrival registration counters, specifically looking for visa stamps from Israel. Non-Muslims who have visited Israel are immediately identified and denied entry into Mecca.

The verification process for Muslims in Mecca aims to preserve the religious and cultural sanctity of the holy city and ensure that only those who follow the Islamic faith can participate in the sacred rituals and experience the spiritual journey of Hajj and Umrah. christian mecca pilgrimage

Can a Revert/Converted Muslim Go to Mecca?

For those who have recently converted to Islam, the desire to visit Mecca, the holiest city in Islam, is often a deeply personal and meaningful one. The journey to Mecca, known as Hajj or Umrah, is a significant pilgrimage for Muslims around the world. So, can a revert or converted Muslim go to Mecca?  is it possible for christians to go to mecca

Fortunately, the answer is yes. Revert or converted Muslims are allowed to visit Mecca, as long as they fulfill certain requirements and provide proof of their conversion. Typically, this proof can be in the form of a certificate from an Islamic center or a letter from a mosque attesting to their conversion. It is important to note that these documents should be obtained from reputable and recognized sources to ensure their validity.

Once a revert Muslim has obtained the necessary proof of conversion, they can proceed to apply for the appropriate visas and permits required for the pilgrimage to Mecca. Just like any other Muslim pilgrim, they must also adhere to the strict rules and regulations set by the Saudi Arabian government for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims. This includes following the prescribed rituals, dress code, and code of conduct while in Mecca.  mecca and christianity

The opportunity to visit Mecca is a significant and profound experience for any Muslim, especially for those who have recently embraced the faith. It allows them to connect with the history, spirituality, and community of Islam on a deeper level. And for revert or converted Muslims, it can serve as a powerful affirmation of their new identity and faith.

Can a Christian Enter Mecca?

No, Christians are not allowed to enter Mecca. According to Islamic teachings, Christians are considered polytheists, and the Quran explicitly states that non-Muslims should not approach the Sacred Mosque. The ban on non-Muslims entering Mecca is strictly enforced by the Saudi Arabian government.

While there have been exceptional cases of non-Muslims entering Mecca for diplomatic or business reasons, it is important to note that such instances are rare and not accessible to the general Christian population. The religious and cultural significance of Mecca, as well as its role as the holiest city in Islam, contribute to the strict regulations surrounding entry into the city. mecca visit for people of other religions

It is important for Christians, as well as individuals from other non-Muslim religions, to respect and understand these restrictions when considering a visit to Mecca. The religious exclusivity of Mecca is deeply rooted in Islamic faith and history, and it is crucial to honor and uphold the sanctity of the holy city.

Table: Rules for Christian Visitors in Mecca

Visiting Mecca as a Christian is not permitted according to Islamic teachings and regulations. It is crucial to acknowledge and respect these rules to maintain the religious integrity and cultural significance of Mecca as the holiest city in Islam.

Can a Hindu Enter Mecca?

As with other non-Muslims, Hindus are not allowed to enter Mecca due to the religious restrictions set forth by Islamic teachings. Mecca is considered a sacred city in Islam and is exclusively reserved for Muslims. The ban on non-Muslims entering Mecca is strictly enforced by the Saudi Arabian government to preserve the sanctity and purity of the holy site.

The restrictions on Hindus visiting Mecca are rooted in the belief that Hindus are idolaters, which is incompatible with Islamic faith. Islamic teachings emphasize the worship of one God and prohibit the worship of idols. Therefore, Hindus, along with other non-Muslims, are not permitted to enter the holy city.  is mecca open to non-muslims

While there have been rare instances of non-Muslims being granted access to Mecca for diplomatic or business reasons, these exceptions are not accessible to individuals from the general Hindu population. The ban remains in place to protect the religious and cultural identity of Mecca and to maintain its significance as a sacred place for Muslims.

Table: Summary of Mecca Entry Restrictions for Non-Muslims

As shown in the table above, non-Muslims from various religious backgrounds, including Hindus, are not allowed to enter Mecca. These restrictions are in place to maintain the religious exclusivity of the holy city and to uphold the significance of Mecca within the context of Islamic faith and practice.

Can a Jew Enter Mecca?

Mecca, the holiest city in Islam, enforces strict restrictions on non-Muslims entering its sacred borders. This ban on non-Muslims includes Jews, as the Saudi Arabian government aims to preserve the sanctity and cultural identity of Mecca. According to Islamic teachings, Jews are considered non-believers and are not permitted to approach the Sacred Mosque.

The ban on Jews entering Mecca is deeply rooted in religious exclusivity. The Saudi Arabian government strictly enforces this restriction to protect the spiritual significance of the holy city. While there have been exceptional cases of non-Muslims, including Jews, entering Mecca for specific reasons, such instances are extremely rare and not accessible to the general Jewish population.

It is important to respect and understand the religious and cultural restrictions surrounding visits to Mecca. Non-Muslims, including Jews, must adhere to the ban on entering Mecca and respect the sacred nature of the city for the millions of Muslims who make the pilgrimage each year.

Table: Restrictions on Non-Muslims Entering Mecca

Is there an age limit for hajj.

While there is no specific age limit for Hajj, the Saudi government sets the minimum age at 12 years due to safety concerns. This age requirement ensures that pilgrims have the physical endurance and maturity to undertake the challenging journey to Mecca. Elderly individuals and those with underlying health conditions are advised to consult with their doctors before embarking on the Hajj pilgrimage.

Health considerations are crucial when participating in Hajj, especially for older individuals. The pilgrimage involves long periods of walking, exposure to large crowds, and potential health risks in crowded areas. It is important for elderly pilgrims to be in good health and consult with healthcare professionals to assess their fitness for the journey.

While there is no upper age limit, it is essential for all pilgrims, regardless of age, to be physically and financially capable of undertaking the Hajj pilgrimage. It is a physically demanding experience, and individuals should be prepared for the physical strain it may put on their bodies. Proper planning, medical checks, and physical preparation are recommended to ensure a safe and fulfilling Hajj experience.

It is important to note that these age requirements and guidelines are subject to change, and it is always recommended to check with the relevant authorities and consult with trusted sources before planning a Hajj pilgrimage.

Health Considerations for Hajj

Participating in the Hajj pilgrimage requires careful consideration of health and safety. Pilgrims are advised to take necessary precautions, such as:

• Getting vaccinated against common diseases and following recommended immunization guidelines
• Practicing good hygiene, including washing hands frequently and using hand sanitizers
• Wearing appropriate clothing to protect against extreme weather conditions
• Staying hydrated and avoiding excessive exposure to the sun
• Following a balanced diet and maintaining regular meals to sustain energy levels
• Taking breaks and resting when feeling fatigued

These health considerations are essential for all pilgrims, particularly the elderly and those with pre-existing medical conditions. It is advisable to consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice and recommendations before undertaking the Hajj pilgrimage.

In conclusion, Mecca remains off-limits to non-Muslims, including Christians, Hindus, and Jews, as a result of the religious exclusivity established by Islamic teachings and strictly enforced by the Saudi Arabian government. The ban on non-Muslims visiting Mecca is deeply rooted in the sanctity and preservation of this holiest city in Islam.

It is important to understand and respect the religious and cultural restrictions surrounding Mecca, as they are crucial in maintaining the spiritual significance and integrity of this sacred place. Non-Muslims who attempt to enter Mecca can face severe consequences due to the enforcement of these restrictions.

While there have been exceptional cases where non-Muslims were permitted entry to Mecca for diplomatic or business reasons, such instances are rare and not accessible to the general Christian, Hindu, or Jewish population. It is vital to consider and adhere to these visit restrictions when planning visits to religiously significant sites.

Can a Christian Visit Mecca?

No, Christians are not allowed to enter Mecca.

Why Are Non-Muslims Not Allowed in Mecca or Madina?

Non-Muslims are not allowed in Mecca and Medina due to their status as the holiest cities in Islam.

The Saudi government employs various measures to verify the religion of visitors to Mecca.

Yes, revert or converted Muslims can visit Mecca as long as they have proof of their conversion.

No, Hindus are not allowed to enter Mecca.

No, Jews are not allowed to enter Mecca.

There is no specific age limit for Hajj, but pilgrims must be physically and financially capable of undertaking the journey.

Mecca remains inaccessible to non-Muslims, including Christians, Hindus, and Jews, due to the religious exclusivity set by Islamic teachings and enforced by the Saudi Arabian government.

Source Links

• https://www.islamiclandmarks.com/makkah-other/can-non-muslims-go-to-mecca
• https://www.ivisa.com/saudi-arabia/blog/can-i-visit-mecca-as-a-tourist
• https://www.youngpioneertours.com/non-muslims-banned-from-mecca/

Best Bible Encyclopedias and Dictionaries

Below is a table featuring some highly regarded Bible Encyclopedias and Dictionaries along with their publishers and websites where they can be found or purchased.

You can generally find these resources on the publishers’ websites, as well as other online book retailers such as Amazon or Christianbook . It’s always good practice to confirm availability and review additional details on the specific websites or other reliable online bookstores.

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Why Non-Muslims cannot enter Mecca?

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As per Islamic laws, all Non-Muslims, including Hindus, Christians, and Jews, are not allowed to enter Makkah. Can Non-Muslims enter Madina?

If you have ever been to Saudi Arabia, you must have seen the traffic boards instructing diversion for Non-Muslims before entering Makkah.

Embassies of different countries operating in Saudi Arabia advise their Non-Muslim citizens that they are not allowed to enter Mecca.

Why Hindus are not allowed in Mecca?

“O you who believe, the Mushriks (polytheists) are impure indeed, so let them not approach Al-Masjid-ul-Harām after this year”.  At-Tawba 9:28

As you can see, the Holy Quran only prohibits polytheists, including Hindus, from entering Makkah. Mushriks are those people who believe in and worship more than one god.

• Christians and Jews are not polytheists, so why are they barred?
• The Holy Quran only restricts entry to Makkah, so why the entry of Non-Muslims to Madina was banned?

Why Christians and Jews are not allowed?

By definition, Christians and Jews are not polytheists, so why are they not allowed to enter Meccan and Madina? The answer is given in the Holy Quran.

The Jews say, “Prophet Uzair عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ is the Son of Allah,” and the Christians say, “Prophet Isa عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ is the Son of Allah.” – At-Tawba 9:30

In other words, the Jews and Christians also come under the category of Mushriks.

Can Non-Muslims enter Madina?

During the time of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and four caliphs of Islam, many ambassadors from non-Muslim states used to come to Madina. It shows that the entry of Non-Muslims to Madina was not banned then.

Later on, due to security concerns, the Muslim governments stopped the entry of all Non-Muslims to both Makkah and Madina. The practice has been continuing for centuries.

However, recently, the Saudi government has allowed Non-Muslims to enter the city of Madina, but they cannot enter Masjid al-Nabawi.

What happens if a non-muslim enters Mecca?

If a Hindu or Non-Muslim is caught entering Makkah;

• He will be investigated and prosecuted.
• The judge will decide on his punishment based on his intentions.
• The maximum punishment could be the death penalty if he is involved in terrorist acts.
• The minimum punishment is a warning.

Any incidents of Non-Muslims entering Makkah?

We have covered some incidents when Non-Muslims entered Makkah and Madina.

• Saudi arrested for taking a Non-Muslim to Makkah
• What happened when a Non-Muslim couple entered Makkah?
• Did Ben Tzion, an Israeli Jew visit Madina?

Islam is not the only religion that restricts access

Islam is not the only religion that restricts the access of Non-believers to its holy sites.

• The LDS (Latter Day Saints of Jesus Christ) “Monmons” restrict access to their major “Churches” to members in good standing. The local worship centers are open to anyone.
• There are around 9 Hindu Temples in India where Non-Hindus are not allowed to enter.

It should be kept in mind that Non-Muslims, including Hindus, are allowed to enter any Masjid of the world except Makkah and Masjid al Nabawi in Madina.

Dr. Zakir Naik: As we need a visa to enter any country of the world, one of the visa requirements to enter Mecca is to be a Muslim.

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Can non-Muslims go to Mecca or Madina? Can Tourists Enter?

Table of Contents

Mecca and Medina are the two most important cities in the Islamic world, and millions of Muslims from around the world visit these cities each year to perform Hajj or Umrah.

However, non-Muslims are not allowed to enter Mecca, but are allowed to visit Madinah. This raises a lot of questions for people who wish to visit Mecca or Medina, especially for tourists and people of other religions.

Why Are Non-Muslims Not Allowed in Mecca or Madina?

When the question arises, ‘ Can non-Muslims go to Mecca ‘ the answer is No.

Non-Muslims are not allowed to enter the holy cities of Mecca in Saudi Arabia. The reasons for this restriction are deeply rooted in the Islamic faith and history.

Mecca and Medina are considered the holiest cities in Islam and are revered by Muslims worldwide. Mecca is home to the Kaaba, the first house of worship dedicated to the one true God, Allah. It is also the site of the annual Hajj pilgrimage , which is one of the five pillars of Islam and mandatory for every able-bodied Muslim who can afford it.

The Quran, the holy book of Islam, states that Mecca is a sanctuary that is reserved exclusively for Muslims and non-Muslims cannot vsit Mecca.

It says in the Quran,

“O you who have believed, indeed the polytheists are unclean, so let them not approach al-Masjid al-Haram after this, their [final] year” (9:28). This Quran verse is interpreted by Islamic scholars as a commandment to keep non-Muslims out of Mecca.

Furthermore, the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) declared that Mecca and Medina are sacred lands that are not to be polluted by non-Muslims.

“No unbeliever may enter Mecca. No one may circumambulate the Kaaba naked or perform the pilgrimage naked” (Sahih Muslim, 1355).

This restriction on non-Muslims entering Mecca has been in place for centuries and is strictly enforced by the Saudi Arabian government. Non-Muslims who attempt to enter Mecca can face severe consequences, including imprisonment and deportation.

The rationale behind this ban is to preserve the sanctity and purity of Mecca as holy site for Muslims . Allowing non-Muslims to enter Makkah could potentially lead to the desecration of these sacred sites and compromise their spiritual significance for Muslims.

In addition to the religious and cultural reasons, there are also security concerns that justify the ban on non-Muslims entering Mecca. The Saudi Arabian government takes the responsibility of protecting the holy cities and their visitors very seriously. It believes restricting access to these cities is necessary to ensure their safety.

How Do They Check if You Are Muslim in Mecca?

The passport will be checked at the arrival registration counter at airport when arriving in Saudi Arabia, and if the passport has any visa stamps from Israel, it will be deemed invalid.

Additionally, non-Muslims are not allowed to apply for the special Hajj or Umrah visas, which are required to enter Makkah and Medina.

Furthermore, there are checkpoints and barriers set up on the roads leading to Mecca to ensure that only Muslims enter the city.

At these checkpoints, visitors will be asked to show their Hajj or Umrah visas as well as their ID cards, which will indicate their religion.

Additionally, there are officers who will be observing the visitors’ behavior and dress to ensure that they are adhering to Islamic norms and customs.

What if I’m a Tourist Visiting Saudi Arabia?

If you are a non-Muslim tourist visiting Saudi Arabia, you will not be allowed to enter the holy citiy of Makkah. However, you can still visit other parts of the country, such as Madina, Riyadh or Jeddah, and experience the culture and hospitality of the Saudi people.

The government has also started promoting tourism in the country, and there are many tourist attractions that you can visit.

Can a Revert/Converted Muslim Go to Mecca?

Yes, a revert Muslims can of course go to Mecca.

However, it is important to note that the Saudi Arabian government has implemented strict rules and regulations for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims, and you must follow these rules to perform the pilgrimage.

Can a Christian Enter Mecca?

No, Christians are not allowed to enter Mecca. According to Islamic teachings, Christians are considered to be polytheists, and they are not allowed to enter the holy cities.

However, there have been reports of some non-Muslims being allowed to enter the cities for diplomatic or business reasons, but these are rare cases.

Can a Hindu Enter Mecca?

No, Hindus are not allowed to enter Mecca or Medina. Hindus are considered to be idolaters, and according to Islamic teachings, idolaters are not allowed to enter the holy cities.

However, there have been some exceptional cases of Hindus being allowed to enter Mecca for diplomatic or business reasons.

Can a Jew Enter Mecca?

No, Jews are not allowed to enter Mecca. The Saudi Arabian government strictly prohibits non-Muslims from entering the holy city of Mecca, and this includes Jews.

This rule is in place to preserve the sanctity and purity of the holy sites for Muslims and to prevent any potential harm to the religious and cultural identity of the city.

Is There an Age Limit for Hajj?

There is no specific age limit for Hajj, but the pilgrim must be physically and financially capable of performing the journey. However, due to safety concerns, the Saudi government has set the minimum age for performing Hajj at 12 years .

Elderly people and those with underlying health conditions are advised to consult their doctors before embarking on the Hajj journey.

What Happens if a Non-Muslim Enters Mecca?

If a Non-Muslim is found entering Mecca, they will be arrested and deported back to their country.

The Saudi government takes the ban on non-Muslims entering Mecca seriously, and violators can face severe punishment, including imprisonment and fines.

Incidents When Non-Muslims Entered Mecca

There have been instances in the past where non-Muslims have entered Mecca. In 1979, a group of armed militants led by Juhayman al-Otaybi took control of the Grand Mosque in Mecca.

The militants were from Saudi Arabia and Yemen, and they believed that the ruling Saudi monarchy had become corrupt and unIslamic.

The Saudi government eventually regained control of the mosque after a two-week siege, during which many people were killed or injured. This incident highlighted the potential security risks that non-Muslims could pose if they were allowed to enter Mecca.

In 2002, an American Jew and TV journalist in Israel named Gil Tamary secretly entered Mecca to record footage for a travelogue.

Despite the strict enforcement of the ban on non-Muslims in Mecca, Tamary managed to gain entry along with only 17 other non-Muslims known to have done so in recent decades.

The incident caused an uproar among Muslims, Israelis, and Westerners alike, as they feared it would increase hostility. The Saudi government pressed criminal charges against Tamary and his Saudi driver.

Tamary later issued an apology and claimed his intention was to highlight the significance of Mecca and the beauty of the religion to promote religious tolerance.

These incidents demonstrate the importance that Muslims place on the sanctity of Mecca and the need for strict measures to prevent non-Muslims from entering the city.

While there may be some curiosity among non-Muslims about what lies inside the holy city, it is important to respect the religious beliefs and practices of others and refrain from attempting to enter Mecca without permission.

Can Non-Muslim Enter Mosques?

Non-Muslims are allowed and welcomed to enter mosques in Saudi Arabia, however the only mosques they are not allowed to enter is Masjid Al Haram and sacred areas around it.

In many Muslim-majority countries, non-Muslims are allowed to enter mosques, although there may be certain restrictions or protocols that they need to follow, such as dress code and behavior. Visitors are often required to remove their shoes and dress modestly, and photography and loud talking may not be allowed.

In some cases, non-Muslims may be allowed to enter mosques but only in certain areas, such as a designated viewing area or the outer courtyard. In other cases, non-Muslims may be allowed to enter the mosque but only during certain times, such as outside of prayer times. But in most cases non Muslims are welcomed to visit mosques.

There are times when some mosques that do not allow non-Muslims to enter at all. This may be because the mosque is considered to be a particularly sensitive or sacred site or because there have been security concerns in the past.

In general, it is recommended that non-Muslims who wish to visit a mosque should be respectful of Islamic customs and traditions. This may include dressing modestly, removing shoes before entering the mosque, and refraining from any behavior that could be seen as disrespectful or disruptive.

Overall, non-Muslims are permitted to enter mosques, unless that mosque is Masjid Al Haram. With proper respect and consideration for Islamic customs and traditions, it is often possible for non-Muslims to visit and appreciate these important cultural and religious sites.

Islam Is Not the Only Religion That Bans/Restricts Access to Holy Sites

It is important to note that Islam is not the only religion that restricts access to certain holy sites. Many religions around the world have similar practices, and it is often done to preserve the sanctity and religious significance of these places.

For example, in Hinduism, non-Hindus are not allowed to enter certain temples.

In addition, there are also many secular restrictions on access to certain areas around the world, such as military zones, national parks, and private property.

Summary – Can Non-Muslims Go to Mecca or Medina?

The bottom line is non-Muslims are generally not allowed to enter Mecca, which are considered the holiest cities in Islam. This is due to the religious significance of these places and the Islamic belief that only Muslims are allowed to enter.

There are strict checkpoints and guidelines in place to ensure that only Muslims are able to enter, and those who attempt to enter without permission may face severe consequences.

However, tourists and visitors to Saudi Arabia are still able to experience the culture and history of the country, and there are many other places to visit and explore.

It is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions and to follow all laws and regulations while visiting the country.

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10 things you should know about the Hajj

Every year about 2 million Muslims travel to Al-Masjid Al-Haram, Islam's most sacred mosque, in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, where they perform a number of spiritual rites, in a process known as the Hajj.

• Performing the Hajj, is one of the five pillars of Islam, and all able-bodied Muslims should go at least once in their lives if they can afford it. Umrah, which is known as the 'lesser pilgrimage', is a journey to Mecca (Makkah) at any time in the year.
• The pilgrimage lasts for six days. It occurs during Dhu Al-Hijjah, the 12th month in the Muslim calendar. This year, the Hajj is expected to fall on October 1-6, but it is difficult to know in advance as it is based on lunar cycles.

• The Kaaba, or 'the cube', is a black, box-shaped building at the centre of the mosque. It is built around a black stone, which many pilgrims try to kiss. Muslims believe the Kaaba was originally built by Abraham and Ishmael, but the site was re-dedicated by Muhammad and has been reconstructed since. When Muslims pray, wherever they are, they turn towards the Kaaba, and during the Hajj pilgrims walk anti-clockwise round it seven times.
• There are a number of other ritual acts during the Hajj, including 'the stoning of the devil'. Pilgrims travel to Mina, a small village about 5km from Mecca where throw pebbles at stone pillars which represent the devil.
• Both men and women dress in white during Hajj – a symbol of the state of purity they are entering. Changing their clothes is part of the process known as 'assuming Ihram', a sacred state that pilgrims adopt at the beginning of the Hajj. Pilgrims also refrain from wearing perfumes, men must not wear any sewn garments and women do not cover their faces.
• Pilgrims drink the water of the Zamzam well, located 20m east of the Kaaba, as it is thought to have special properties. The water is believed to come from the same source as the spring which provided water for Ishmael.
• The Eid Al-Adha is a feast marking the end of the pilgrimage. It is known as the feast of sacrifice, in remembrance of Abraham's willingness to sacrifice Ishmael, as the story is recorded in Islamic tradition.
• Many pilgrims stay in the thousands of white tents set up in the valley of Mina. Many suffer heat exhaustion in the 30-40˚C heat.

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Are non-Muslims Allowed to Enter Mecca and the Sacred Mosque (Haram)?

Answered by: Ustadh Faraz A. Khan

Question: Why can’t non-Muslim, Jews and Christians, enter Mecca or the Haram?

Answer : Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullah,

I pray this finds you in the best of health and faith.

The short answer to your question is that historically there was disagreement among jurists with respect to the matter. Abu Hanifa’s opinion was that non-Muslims can enter Mecca and even the Sacred Mosque [haram], as long as they do not do so for the sake of the pilgrimage [hajj or umra], which they are not allowed to perform. This is the opinion of the Hanafi school of law, which historically up to today has been the largest juridical school of Islam. Other schools of thought, however, differed on the legal ruling.

The Verse in Question

This ruling is based on the Qur’anic verse, “O believers, polytheists are not except filth, so let them not approach the Sacred Mosque after this year of theirs…” [9:28].

This verse was revealed in the 9th year after hijra, which is therefore what is meant by the phrase “this year of theirs.” The year is ascribed to them in the verse to emphasize the fact that the legal ruling therein is specific to them alone. [Ibn Ashur, Tahrir wal-Tanwir]

Most Qur’anic exegetes [mufassirun] interpreted the first statement as metaphorical, that is, polytheists are not literally filth, but their creed of associating partners with Allah Most High is so base and vile in the sight of Allah that it is akin to filth itself, so much so that it is as if those who adhere to such beliefs are themselves filth.

[Ibn Ashur, Tahrir wal-Tanwir; Alusi, Ruh al-Ma’ani; Nasafi, Madarik al-Tanzil; Abu Suud, Irshad al-Aql al-Salim; Abu Hayyan, Bahr al-Muhit; Suyuti, Tafsir Jalalayn]

Juridical Difference on the Resultant Legal Ruling

As for the legal ruling derived from the verse, as mentioned above there was disagreement among jurists historically.

Imam Shafi’i interpreted the verse to mean that after that year, polytheists were not allowed to enter the Sacred Mosque of Mecca, yet they could enter other mosques, as only the Sacred Mosque was specified in the verse. This was the opinion of Imam Ahmad ibn Hanbal as well.

Imam Malik understood the verse to be more general and therefore maintained that polytheists could not enter the Sacred Mosque of Mecca nor any mosque whatsoever.

Also, according to Imams Shafi’i, Malik and Ahmad, the term “Sacred Mosque” used in the verse linguistically refers to the entire Sacred Precinct, that is, all of Mecca as well as its outlying areas; hence, the legal ruling of barring non-Muslims from entry would apply to that whole area, not just the Sacred Mosque of Mecca.

Imam Abu Hanifa understood the verse to refer only to the actual pilgrimage, not to mere entrance, and therefore maintained that polytheists could enter any mosque, even the Sacred Mosque of Mecca. According to him, they simply could not perform the pilgrimage, neither hajj nor umra, as was customary among the polytheists of Mecca before the revelation of the above verse.

[Jassas, Ahkam al-Qur’an; Alusi, Ruh al-Ma’ani; Qurtubi, Jami’ li Ahkam al-Qur’an; Shirazi, al-Muhadhdhab; Nawawi, Majmu’; Ibn Abidin, Radd al-Muhtar; Kasani, Bada’i al-Sana’i; Buhuti, Kashshaf al-Qina’]

All of Humanity is Honored

However, regardless of this particular ruling and the Islamic view of polytheism as a creed, people that adhere to such beliefs are still our brothers in humanity, and all humans are honored by Allah as they are children of Adam and Allah’s vicegerents on earth. Muslims are commanded to treat all humans – whether Jews, Christians, Hindus, Buddhists, polytheists, atheists, or otherwise – with respect, dignity, and mutual regard.

Allah Most High states, “And We have indeed honored the children of Adam,” [17:70] i.e., all of humanity, irrespective of differences in creed.

He Most High also states, “O humanity! We have created you all from a male and female, and We have made you into nations and tribes so that you may come to know one another…” [49:13] Our differences, then, are merely a platform upon which we, as brothers in humanity, can have civil dialogue and open the doors of communication so as to come to know one another.

Furthermore, it is rigorously authenticated that our Beloved Messenger [peace and blessings be upon him] said, “The believer is one from whom all of humanity feels safe.” [Sahih Ibn Hibban; Mustadrak Hakim; Musnad Ahmad] Therefore according to the Prophet himself, the very definition and hence nature of the believer entails providing safety and security to all of humanity.

He also said, “I was sent to perfect good character,” [Mustadrak Hakim; Sunan Bayhaqi], and according to Islamic creed, he [peace and blessings be upon him] was sent not just to the Arabs, but rather to all of humanity. The prophetic perfection of character, then, is directed towards humanity at large. This is further echoed by the Qur’anic verse, “And We have sent you not except as a mercy to all of creation.” [21:107]

Out of emulation of the Prophet, Muslims are therefore commanded to reflect prophetic mercy to all humans, creedal differences aside.

And Allah alone gives success.

wassalam Faraz A. Khan

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Biblical living

The muslim hajj begins today: why christians should know about hajj, july 7, 2022 - east-west.

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Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam. During Hajj, there is an expectation for physically and financially able Muslims to travel to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, at least once in their lives. Meaning “pilgrimage” in Arabic, Hajj is an event that unites Muslims worldwide as they shed social status and celebrate equality in a holy city.

Muslims participate in Hajj during the twelfth month of the Islamic calendar. This spiritual pilgrimage commemorates Abraham’s life and recognizes what Muslims believe to be the creation of the first house of worship.

As Christians engage in conversations with their Muslim friends, knowing the background and purpose of the spiritual pilgrimage of Hajj can help equip us to be ready to encourage our Muslim friends toward a saving hope in Christ.

What is Hajj?

Muslims recognize Abraham’s life as one guided by faith. According to the Quran, Abraham (known as Ibrahim in the Quran) and his wife, Sarah, had a promise from Allah that Abraham would be a father of many nations. However, as Sarah got older, she doubted the promise and asked Abraham to have a child with their servant, Hagar. The son Hagar bore was named Ishmael.

After Ishmael’s birth, Muslims believe Allah commanded Abraham to offer one of his sons as a sacrifice. Some Muslims believe this son was Ishmael, while others believe it was Isaac. Abraham was willing to obey, but Allah provided an alternate sacrifice to save the son’s life. Allah then commanded Abraham to send Hagar and Ishmael to a barren land now known as Mecca. Abraham and Ishmael built the Ka’aba, the holiest shrine in Islam. Muslims visit Ka’aba during Hajj and commemorate Hagar and Ishmael’s exile to Mecca by re-enacting Hagar’s desperate search for water to save Ishmael.

Muslims believe attending Hajj will provide them with an opportunity to work for renewal and forgiveness. The event lasts five days, and during that time, Muslims carry out a series of rituals and are restricted from arguments, violence, and sexual relations. Participants wear two simple pieces of white cloth, and men shave their heads while women cut a lock of their hair.

At the end of Hajj, Muslims celebrate Eid ul-Adha .

Hajj is believed to be the largest public annual gathering in the world. Many nations are represented, and Muslims enjoy unity and equality with each other. Muslims believe Mecca is the holiest place, and only Muslims are permitted to enter.

The gospel opportunity of Hajj

The story of Hagar and Ishmael is shared in both Christianity and Islam. However, there are a few differences. For example, the Bible states Abraham sacrificed Isaac, while Muslims believe it was either Ishmael or Isaac. Also, the Bible states that Hagar was sent away by a jealous Sarah, while the Quran cites that Allah commanded Abraham to send Hagar away. The Quran also mentions Mecca and the building of the Ka’aba, which is not in the Bible.

The stories do align in the provision of water for Hagar and Ishmael in the barren land.

“God heard the boy crying, and the angel of God called to Hagar from heaven and said to her, ‘What is the matter, Hagar? Do not be afraid; God has heard the boy crying as he lies there. Lift the boy up and take him by the hand, for I will make him into a great nation.’ Then God opened her eyes and she saw a well of water. So she went and filled the skin with water and gave the boy a drink. God was with the boy as he grew up. —Genesis 21:17-20a

The provision for Hagar and Ishmael reveals the Lord’s heart for His people. Despite their disobedience, the Lord provided Abraham and Sarah a second son, Isaac, who continues a lineage to Christ. Then the Lord provided water for Hagar and Ishmael in the barren land, and Ishmael was provided a historic lineage as well. In the same way, the Lord continues to provide for His people through Christ as our Savior and the Holy Spirit as our Comforter and Guide.

This shows that God is a loving and personal God. Through Jesus and the Holy Spirit, we can truly know God. In Islam, one cannot truly know Allah, and Muslims strive to earn acceptance and forgiveness. Through accepting Christ as their Savior, Christians freely receive forgiveness through grace.

When your Muslim friends discuss Hajj, they may be interested in hearing that Hagar and Ishmael are in the Bible. Share that as the Lord’s character provided for Hagar in the desert, He still provides for His people through Jesus Christ for salvation. If the Spirit leads, explain how the Lord’s provision through Christ is sufficient, and we have no obligation to earn salvation by deeds because of His perfect life.

“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.” —Ephesians 2:8-9

During this conversation, you may have planted or watered a seed of truth. Pray that God will make the seed grow and that your Muslim friend will understand that forgiveness of sins comes through faith in Christ alone.

Learn more about  sharing the gospel with Muslims .

This article first appeared on the  East-West blog  and is republished by permission.

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• Section 10 - Egypt
• Section 10 - South Africa

Saudi Arabia: Hajj & Umrah Pilgrimages

Cdc yellow book 2024.

Author(s): Salim Parker, Joanna Gaines

Destination Overview

Infectious disease risks, environmental hazards & risks, other health considerations, safety & security, availability & quality of medical care.

Hajj and Umrah are religious pilgrimages to Mecca, Saudi Arabia. Islamic religious doctrine dictates that every able-bodied adult Muslim who can afford to do so is obligated to make Hajj at least once in their lifetime. Hajj takes place from the 8th through the 12th day of the last month of the Islamic year (Dhul Hijjah). The timing of Hajj is based on the Islamic lunar calendar; its dates shift relative to the Gregorian calendar, occurring ≈11 days earlier each successive year. In 2021, for example, Hajj took place from July 17–22, but in 2022, Hajj occurred from July 7–12. Muslims can perform Umrah, the “minor pilgrimage,” any time of the year; unlike Hajj, Umrah is not compulsory.

Normally, ≈2–3 million Muslims from >183 countries perform Hajj each year, and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) continues its efforts to allow an even greater number of pilgrims (hajjis) attend. In a typical year, >11,000 pilgrims travel from the United States. Due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, however, only 1,000 pilgrims received permission to perform Hajj in 2020. In 2021, 60,000 were allowed, and in 2022, 1 million pilgrims made the pilgrimage. In both 2020 and 2021, because no cross-border entry into the country was permitted, KSA limited Hajj pilgrims to residents of Saudi Arabia.

Performing the Pilgrimage

Most international pilgrims fly into Jeddah or Medina and take a bus to Mecca. Although the actual pilgrimage lasts only 5 days, most foreign pilgrims visit Saudi Arabia for 2–7 weeks.

On the first day of Hajj (8th day of Dhul Hijjah), hajjis travel by foot or by bus ≈5.5 miles (9 km) to Mina, the largest temporary city in the world, where most stay in air-conditioned tents.

At dawn on the 9th day of Dhul Hijjah, hajjis begin an ≈7.75-mile (12.5-km) trip by foot, shuttle bus, or train to the Plain of Arafat ( Map 10-03 [all distances shown are approximate]). During the summer months, daytime temperatures can reach 122°F (50°C). The walking route features mist sprinklers, but the risk for heat-related illnesses is high, and ambulances and medical stations are positioned along the way to provide medical assistance.

Hajj climaxes on the Plain of Arafat, a few miles east of Mecca. Pilgrims spend the day in supplication, praying and reading the Quran. Being on Arafat on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah, even for only a few moments, is an absolute rite of Hajj. Any hajji who fails to reach the Plain of Arafat on that day must repeat their pilgrimage. After sunset, pilgrims begin the ≈6.5-mile (10.5-km) journey to Muzdalifah, where most sleep in the open air. Potential health threats in Muzdalifah include breathing the thick dust and inadequate or overcrowded washing and sanitation facilities.

At sunrise on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah, pilgrims collect small pebbles to carry to Jamaraat, the site of multiple deadly crowd crush disasters. At Jamaraat, hajjis throw 7 tiny pebbles at the largest of 3 white pillars—the stoning of the effigy of the Devil. Afterwards, pilgrims traditionally sacrifice an animal. Some purchase vouchers to have licensed abattoirs perform this ritual on their behalf, thereby limiting potential exposure to zoonotic diseases. Other pilgrims visit farms where they sacrifice an animal themselves or have it done by an appointed representative.

The next morning, on the 11th day of Dhul Hijjah, hajjis go to the Grand Mosque, which houses the Ka’aba (“The Cube”), and which Muslims consider the house of God. Pilgrims perform tawaf, 7 complete counterclockwise circuits around the Ka’aba. Because each floor of the 3-level mosque can hold 750,000 people, performing tawaf can take hours. In addition to tawaf, pilgrims have the option of performing sa’i, walking (sometimes running) 7 times between the hills of Safa and Marwah, then drinking water from the Well of Zamzam. Hajjis can travel between Safa and Marwah via air-conditioned tunnels, which have separate sections for walkers and disabled pilgrims. At the end of the day, pilgrims return to Mina (via Jamaraat) pelting all 3 pillars with pebbles.

The next day, the 12th day of Dhul Hijjah, pilgrims pelt all 3 pillars in Mina with pebbles again and then, after performing a final tawaf, some leave Mecca, ending their Hajj. Other pilgrims stay an additional night, pelt the 3 pillars with pebbles once more the next day, perform their final tawaf, and end the pilgrimage. Although not required, some hajjis include a trip to Medina, where they visit the Mosque of the Prophet, home to the tomb of Mohammed.

Map 10-03 Hajj / Umrah pilgrimage

View Larger Figure

KSA can elect to restrict the entry of travelers coming from countries experiencing infectious disease outbreaks. In 2012, for example, KSA did not permit anyone from Uganda to attend Hajj due to an Ebola outbreak in that country; the same restriction applied to Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone in 2014 and 2015.

Required Vaccines

Current Hajj vaccination requirements are available from the Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in the United States. As part of the Hajj and Umrah visa application process, KSA requires proof of vaccination against COVID-19 and meningococcal disease (for all pilgrims), polio (for pilgrims coming from countries where the disease is reported), and yellow fever (for all pilgrims arriving from yellow fever–endemic countries).

Coronavirus Disease 2019

In 2020 and 2021, KSA only permitted Saudi residents <65 years old to apply for pilgrimage permits. In 2022, the Saudi government reopened Hajj to pilgrims (<65 years old) from countries outside KSA. Priority was granted to those who had not previously performed the pilgrimage. For the 2020 Hajj, because COVID-19 vaccines were not yet available, KSA required Hajj pilgrims to have a negative PCR test. In 2021 and 2022, hajjis also had to provide proof of immunization with an approved COVID-19 vaccine. The Kingdom recognizes vaccines produced by Johnson & Johnson, Moderna, Oxford/Astra Zeneca, and Pfizer/BioNTech.

All travelers going to Saudi Arabia should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines .

Meningococcal

The Hajj has been associated with meningococcal outbreaks. In 1987, serogroup A was responsible for an outbreak and carriage by returning pilgrims to certain countries that resulted in disease among local contacts. Serogroup W was responsible for similar occurrences in 2000 and 2001.

KSA requires all pilgrims ≥1 year of age to submit a certificate of vaccination with the quadrivalent (ACYW) vaccine against meningitis, issued no more than 3 years (in the case of the polysaccharide vaccine) or 5 years (conjugate vaccine) and no less than 10 days before arrival in KSA. The conjugate vaccine is preferred because it is associated with reduced carriage, unlike the polysaccharide vaccine.

If pregnant women and children travel to the Hajj, they should receive meningococcal vaccination according to licensed indications for pregnancy and age respectively. For more details on meningococcal disease and its prevention, see Meningococcal Disease chapter.

Although KSA’s requirement for polio vaccine does not apply to adult pilgrims from the United States, ensuring full vaccination before travel is best. All pilgrims traveling from countries where polio is reported are required to show proof of vaccination ≤6 weeks prior to departure. KSA also administers a single dose of the oral polio vaccine to pilgrims coming from countries where polio has been reported, this in addition to any polio vaccine the hajji might have received in their country of origin. About 500,000 doses of polio vaccine are given at ports of entry, representing >90% of eligible pilgrims.

Bloodborne Pathogens

After completing Hajj, men shave their heads. KSA limits barber licenses and requires barbers to use only disposable, single-use blades, to limit transmission of bloodborne pathogens between customers. Remind male travelers to patronize only officially licensed barbers whose establishments are clearly marked. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends all travelers to KSA, particularly health care workers or other caretakers participating in Hajj, be up to date with routine immunizations, including hepatitis B vaccine.

Enteric Infections & Diseases

Diarrheal disease is common during Hajj. During the pretravel consultation, inform travelers about prevention, oral rehydration strategies, proper use of antimotility agents, and self-treatment of travelers’ diarrhea (TD) with antibiotics. Most TD in hajjis is bacterial (≤83%), with smaller proportions caused by viruses and parasites. More information on TD can be found in Sec. 2, Ch. 6, Travelers’ Diarrhea .

The World Health Organization recommends that travelers visiting farms, or other areas where animals are present, practice general hygiene measures, including avoiding contact with sick animals and regular handwashing before and after touching animals. Travelers should avoid consuming raw or undercooked animal products, including milk and meat.

Respiratory Infections & Diseases

Respiratory tract infections are common during Hajj, and pneumonia is among the most common causes of hospital admission. The risk for respiratory infections underscores the need to follow recommendations from the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices for pneumococcal conjugate and polysaccharide vaccines for pilgrims aged ≥65 years and for younger travelers with comorbidities.

Although not a requirement, the CDC strongly recommends that hajjis be fully vaccinated against seasonal influenza. Behavioral interventions, including regular handwashing with soap and water, properly wearing a facemask, cough etiquette, and, if possible, physical distancing and contact avoidance, can help mitigate the risk for respiratory illnesses among pilgrims. Assess travelers for respiratory fitness, administer necessary vaccines, and prescribe adequate supplies of portable respiratory medications (inhalers are easier to transport than nebulizers) as needed.

Crowded conditions, even outdoors (densities can reach 9 pilgrims per square meter), can increase the probability of respiratory disease transmission during Hajj, including COVID-19 and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS). At the time of writing, no Hajj-associated cases of COVID-19 or MERS have been reported. Many pilgrims come from areas highly endemic for tuberculosis (TB); some arrive for Hajj with active pulmonary disease. Educate pilgrims about the risk for TB, and instruct them to follow up with their doctor if they develop symptoms of active TB.

Middle East Respiratory Syndrome

MERS, caused by the Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV), was identified in Saudi Arabia in 2012 (see Sec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 14, Middle East Respiratory Syndrome / MERS ). Domestic cases in and around the Arabian Peninsula and exported cases, including in the United States, have ranged from mild to severe; ≈35% of reported cases have been fatal. Close contact with someone who has confirmed MERS-CoV infection, exposure to camels, and consuming raw or undercooked camel products (e.g., milk, urine, meat) are all considered risk factors for human infection with MERS-CoV.

Skin Infections

Chafing caused by long periods of standing and walking in the heat can lead to bacterial or fungal skin infections. Advise travelers to keep their skin dry, use talcum powder, and to be aware of any pain or irritation caused by garments. Travelers should disinfect open sores and blisters and keep them covered. As a sign of respect, pilgrims enter the Grand Mosque with the tops of their feet uncovered; while most hajjis perform tawaf in their bare feet, encourage travelers with diabetes to wear appropriate, protective footwear.

Vectorborne Diseases

Aedes mosquitoes, vectors for dengue, and Anopheles mosquitoes, vectors for malaria, are present in Saudi Arabia. Travelers should follow mosquito bite prevention measures outlined in Sec. 4, Ch. 6, Mosquitoes, Ticks & Other Arthropods . Dengue has been documented in Mecca and Jeddah, but not in association with Hajj. KSA conducts extensive spraying campaigns before Hajj, and especially targets the housing units of pilgrims from malaria- and dengue-endemic areas. The cities of Jeddah, Mecca, Medina, Riyadh (the capital of KSA), and Ta’if have no malaria transmission, and prophylaxis against malaria is neither recommended nor required for pilgrims.

Animal Bites

Pilgrims bitten by animals should seek immediate medical attention to address any potential rabies exposure (see Sec. 4, Ch. 7, Zoonotic Exposures: Bites, Stings, Scratches & Other Hazards , and Sec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 18, Rabies ).

Climate & Sun Exposure

Heat is a threat to the health and well-being of all travelers; both heat exhaustion and heatstroke can cause incapacitation and death among pilgrims (see Sec. 4. Ch. 2, Extremes of Temperature ). Travelers are particularly at risk when Hajj occurs during summer months; the average high temperatures during June–September are ≥110°F. High temperatures combined with high humidity can lead to a heat index indicative of an extreme heat warning. High heat alone can exacerbate chronic conditions.

Depending on the exact location of their lodgings within Mina and whether they use trains or shuttle buses to get from one location to another, hajjis might walk up to ≈35–40 miles (≈55–65 km) over the 5 days; about 45% of pilgrims walk during the Hajj rituals. Counsel pilgrims to stay well hydrated, wear sunscreen, and seek shade or use umbrellas when possible. Religious leaders have ruled that it is permissible for hajjis to perform some rituals after dark. In addition, except for a pilgrim’s required presence on Arafat on the 9th day of Dhul Hijjah, most other compulsory rituals can be postponed, done by proxy, or redeemed by paying a penalty.

Chronic Health Conditions

Hajj is arduous, even for young, healthy pilgrims. Because many Muslims wait until they are older before performing Hajj, they are more likely to have chronic health conditions. Travelers caught up in the experience of Hajj or Umrah might forget to take their usual medications. People with chronic medical conditions should have a health assessment before traveling to Hajj. Tailor a plan for each traveler’s unique risks, including adjusting the usual medical regimen if necessary, ensuring an adequate supply of medications, and providing education about symptoms that indicate a condition requiring urgent attention.

Pilgrims with diabetes should have a customized management plan that enables them to meet the arduous physical challenges of the Hajj. They should bring adequate amounts of all medications, plus syringes and needles if they are insulin dependent. They also should carry an emergency kit with them on their pilgrimage; the kit should include easily accessible carbohydrate sources, glucagon, a glucometer and test strips, urine ketone sticks to evaluate for ketoacidosis, and a list of medications and care plans. Emphasize the importance of wearing durable and protective footwear to reduce the incidence of minor foot trauma, which can lead to infections.

Menstruation

Muslim law prohibits a person who is menstruating from performing tawaf. All other rituals are independent of menses. Because pilgrims generally know well in advance that they will be making a pilgrimage, those who intend to manipulate their menstrual cycle should consult with a physician 2–3 months before the journey.

Fire is a potential risk during Hajj. In 1997, open stoves set tents on fire, and the resulting blaze killed 343 pilgrims and injured >1,500. In 2015, a hotel caught fire and >1,000 pilgrims were evacuated. KSA no longer allows pilgrims to erect their own lodgings or prepare their own food; permanent fiberglass structures have replaced formerly makeshift accommodations.

Traffic-Related Injuries

As in other countries, motor vehicle crashes are the primary safety risk for US travelers to KSA. Remind Hajj pilgrims of the importance of seatbelt use in any vehicle, including buses (see Sec. 8, Ch. 5, Road & Traffic Safety ). Encourage pilgrims to be mindful of their own safety when they walk long distances through or near dense traffic.

Trauma is a major cause of injury and death during Hajj. Hajj is associated with dense crowding, leading to crush disasters or stampedes. Thousands of pilgrims were killed during a crush at Mina in 2015, making it the deadliest Hajj disaster on record. Death usually results from asphyxiation or head trauma, and large crowds limit the movement of emergency medical services, making prompt rescue and treatment difficult.

Travelers who become ill during Hajj have access to medical facilities located in and around the holy sites. An estimated 25,000 health care workers are typically in attendance, and medical services are offered free of charge to all pilgrims. For safety reasons, KSA advises that children, the frail elderly, seriously ill, and pregnant people postpone Hajj and Umrah.

The following authors contributed to the previous version of this chapter: Salim Parker, Joanna Gaines

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• World Politics

Hajj, the Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, explained for non-Muslims

It’s like Burning Man, but for Muslims. Okay, it’s nothing like Burning Man.

by Jennifer Williams

At this moment in mid-August, 1.5 million people from dozens of countries around the world are in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, to perform the hajj, the Islamic religious pilgrimage.

It’s a huge event — in terms of both its significance in Islam and the massive logistical challenge of having that many people from all walks of life and every corner of the globe descend on one relatively small place all at once.

But what actually goes on at the hajj? What is its religious and political significance? How do they handle all those people? And what is inside that big black box?

We’ve got you covered: Here are the most basic answers to the most basic questions about the hajj.

What is the hajj?

The hajj — Arabic for “pilgrimage” — is a five-day religious pilgrimage to Mecca and nearby holy sites in Saudi Arabia that all Muslims who are physically and financially able must perform at least once in their lives. It is one of the five pillars, or duties, of Islam, along with the profession of faith in the one God and Mohammed as his prophet, prayer, charitable giving, and fasting during the holy month of Ramadan .

The hajj takes place only once a year, in the 12th and final month of the Islamic lunar calendar; pilgrimages to Mecca made at other times in the year are encouraged but do not count as the hajj. Because the Islamic lunar calendar is about 11 days shorter than the 365 days of the standard Gregorian calendar, the timing of the hajj moves backward each year.

Over the five days of the hajj, pilgrims perform a series of rituals meant to symbolize their unity with other believers and to pay tribute to God. On the last three days of the hajj, pilgrims — as well as all other Muslims around the world — celebrate Eid al-Adha, or the Festival of Sacrifice. This is one of the two major religious holidays Muslims celebrate every year. (The other is Eid al-Fitr, which comes at the end of Ramadan.)

At the end of the hajj, pilgrims return home and are often given the honorific “hajji,” meaning one who has performed the hajj. (One interesting note here: During the Iraq War, US troops frequently used the term “hajji” as a derogatory term for any Iraqi, Arab, or other person of Middle Eastern or South Asian descent. So although they certainly didn’t mean it this way, and it almost certainly wasn’t taken this way by the person on the receiving end of the slur, US troops were inadvertently applying a term of respect and honor to these individuals.)

What is the religious significance of the hajj?

People may be surprised to learn that the hajj has very little to do with the Prophet Mohammed. Rather, it mostly commemorates events in the life of the Prophet Ibrahim — that is, Abraham. Yes, that Abraham.

If you’re from a non-Abrahamic faith tradition or if it’s just been a while since Sunday school, Abraham is a venerated patriarchal figure in Judaism, Christianity, Islam, and the Baha’i faith. He is perhaps best known for being willing to personally kill his beloved son when God commanded him to do so. At the last minute, so the story goes, God stepped in and told Abraham to sacrifice an animal instead, rewarding Abraham’s unwavering faith.

In the Judeo-Christian narrative, the son Abraham almost sacrifices is Isaac. In Islam, however, it’s Abraham’s other son, Ismail (Ishmael), who is almost sacrificed. Muslims consider both Abraham and Ismail to be prophets of God, and Mohammed’s ancestry is said to be traced back to Ismail.

There is another event involving Ismail and his mother, Hagar, that looms large in the hajj. The story goes like this: God commanded Abraham, as a test of faith, to take Hagar and the infant Ismail out to a barren desert area located between the two hills of Safa and Marwah in Mecca, and leave them there alone with only basic provisions. Eventually the water ran out, and the increasingly frantic Hagar ran back and forth from hill to hill seven times searching for water for her parched child.

Then a miracle occurred: A well, later called the Zamzam well, sprang from the ground, saving both of them. The story of how the well was discovered differs: Some accounts say it was the baby Ismail’s distressed kicking of his feet that scratched away the dirt and revealed the water source. Other accounts hold that the angel Gabriel (Jibril in Arabic) tipped his wing into the dirt to reveal the well.

Abraham and Ismail later went on to build the Kaaba, the black cuboid structure in Mecca that Muslims face when they pray, together, as a place of worship of the one God. (Abraham eventually came back and retrieved his family from the desert, evidently.)

Soon after they built the Kaaba, tradition holds, God commanded Abraham to proclaim a pilgrimage to the site — in other words, the hajj — to all mankind (well, all monotheists) so that they can come together in one place to show their devotion to God.

Okay, seriously, what’s the deal with the big black cube?

Muslims around the world face the direction of the Kaaba — Arabic for “cube” — when they pray, but they don’t worship the Kaaba (or the Black Stone). Rather, it is a place of worship of the one God. It is also a focusing mechanism, a central point on the globe toward which all Muslims, in a symbol of unity, direct their thoughts and prayers to God.

According to Islamic tradition, the site of the Kaaba was originally a sacred place where angels would worship God in the days before man was created. Later, Adam (yes, that Adam, partner to Eve) built a shrine to God on that spot, but it too was destroyed by the ravages of time. When Abraham came along, he and his son Ismail rebuilt the Kaaba on the foundations of Adam’s earlier shrine as a place of worship of the one God.

The structure consists of four walls and a roof, all made from stone from the hills surrounding Mecca. The four corners roughly face the four points of the compass. The building is often referred to as a “cube” (that’s where “Kaaba” comes from, after all), but this is not technically correct. To be a true geometric cube , all its edges must have the same length, and every corner in the cube must have an angle of 90 degrees.

The Kaaba’s edges are not all the same length, so therefore it is best described as a “cuboid,” not a “cube.” It is covered by a black silk cloth decorated with verses of the Quran in gold-embroidered Arabic calligraphy. This cloth is known as the kiswah, and it is replaced yearly, on the second day of the hajj.

While Abraham was building the Kaaba, so the legend goes, the angel Gabriel came down and gave Abraham the famous Black Stone, which he placed in the eastern corner of the structure.

There is another squarish stone on the ground a few feet away from the Kaaba with what look like two footprints in it. This is known as the Station of Abraham and is said to be the stone where Abraham stood while watching over the construction of the Kaaba. Today it is encased in a beautifully ornate golden glass-and-metal structure.

There is a famous story in Islam about Mohammed and the Black Stone. By Mohammed’s time, the Kaaba had again been damaged and was being repaired (it has been damaged or destroyed and rebuilt or repaired numerous times over the centuries). The story goes that when construction was finished and it came time to place the Black Stone back in the eastern corner, the final step, the tribes of Mecca argued fiercely over who would get to do the honors.

They decided to ask the next man who walked by to decide for them, and that man happened to be Mohammed. His solution was to put the stone on a large cloth and have each of the leaders of the four tribes hold a corner of the cloth and carry the stone to its place. Mohammed himself then placed the stone into its final position.

This was back before Mohammed had received his first revelation from God. The next time Mohammed was involved with the Kaaba, though, would prove to be much less ... harmonious.

Islamic tradition holds that although Abraham built the Kaaba to worship the one God, over time the Kaaba had been more or less co-opted by the various pagan tribes in the area, all of whom had placed idols to their preferred deity inside the Kaaba, thereby “corrupting” it.

One particularly popular idol was a figure of Hubal, a moon deity worshipped by many in Mecca at the time. Access to the Kaaba (and thus the idol) was controlled by the powerful Quraysh tribe, of which Mohammed was a member, and they basically capitalized on this to get rich, charging fees and selling wares to pilgrims coming to worship the idol.

When Mohammed began receiving revelations from God (he received his first one about five years after the incident with the Black Stone) and preaching his message of monotheism, the rich Qurayshi merchants started getting a little antsy. Worried that the growing popularity of his decidedly anti-idol worshiping message could potentially hurt business, they ran Mohammed and his small band of followers out of town.

Ten years later, Mohammed and his now much larger and more powerful army of followers defeated the Quraysh tribe and took control of Mecca. One of Mohammed’s first acts upon taking control of the city was to go into the Kaaba and smash the idol of Hubal and the hundreds of other idols to pieces, rededicating the shrine as a place of worship of the one God.

Today, the Kaaba is kept closed during the hajj because of the overwhelming number of people, but those who visit the Kaaba during other times of the year are sometimes allowed to go inside. It’s quite beautiful: The walls are white marble on the lower half and green cloth on the upper half. There is very little inside it, though — just three tall stone pillars, a small table, some hanging lamp–looking things, and a staircase to the roof.

Oh, and aliens.

Just kidding.

What are the main rituals performed during the hajj?

The most well-known ritual is the tawaf (literally “circumambulation”), during which pilgrims circle the Kaaba counterclockwise seven times at both the very beginning and the very end of the hajj. Although it’s not entirely clear exactly why it’s seven specifically, many believe it has to do with the motion of celestial bodies. Seven is also a prominent number associated with the divine in many religions, including Christianity and Judaism.

Other rituals include a ceremony where pilgrims throw small pebbles at three large stone walls, called jamarat, to symbolize the stoning the devil that tempted Abraham to defy God, and the slaughtering of an animal (usually a sheep) to honor the animal Abraham slaughtered instead of his son.

The meat is then given to feed the poor and needy. These days, pilgrims frequently elect to purchase tokens to have an animal slaughtered for them.

There is also a ritual called Sa’ee, in which pilgrims walk back and forth between the two hills of Safa and Marwah seven times to commemorate Hagar’s frantic search for water for her infant son.

Today, both hills are enclosed within the Masjid al-Haram (Sacred Mosque) complex (which also houses the Kaaba), and the path between the hills is a long, beautiful indoor gallery with marble floors and air conditioning. Many also drink from the Zamzam well located there.

The only ritual that is solely related to Mohammed is the climbing of Mount Arafat, which is where Mohammed preached his last sermon. On the second day of hajj, pilgrims wake at dawn and walk a short distance to Mount Arafat, where they spend the remainder of the day on or near the mountain in quiet worship and contemplation of God.

Can non-Muslims do the hajj?

No. Although Christians and Jews believe in the God of Abraham, they are not allowed to perform the hajj. Indeed, the government of Saudi Arabia forbids all non-Muslims from entering the holy city of Mecca at all.

The Saudi government takes this very seriously, so the odds that a non-Muslim would be able to slip in unnoticed among the throngs of pilgrims undetected or pretend to be Muslim and get in that way are extremely small. It’s not completely impossible — it has happened a handful of times over the centuries — but given the millions who attend every single year, the rate of success is miniscule. The Saudis have been doing this for a long time, and they’re not idiots.

Legal entry into the country is extremely tightly controlled, and the paperwork required to get a hajj visa is incredibly detailed. Pilgrims must book their hajj trip through a Saudi government–approved hajj travel agent. For a Western Muslim convert to be allowed to go on hajj, he or she must present documentation from an imam (Muslim religious leader). The imam must testify in writing that he knows the person in question and that the person is a true convert.

Trying to come in on a regular tourist visa and then stealthily making your way to Mecca is also a nonstarter. Getting a tourist visa as a Westerner is notoriously hard, and the likelihood of you being able to just slip away from your Saudi government minder and travel undetected all the way from the capital Riyadh to Mecca — more than 500 miles away, on the other side of a vast desert — is basically laughable.

The only way for a non-Muslim to get in is essentially to play the long con, pretending to convert to Islam seemingly sincerely enough to convince the local imam that you’re for real. That has happened before: In 2015, WND published a three-part series written pseudonymously by someone who claimed to be a white British non-Muslim man who successfully fake-converted to Islam and went on hajj.

So it’s not impossible. But you have to really, really, really want to go to all that trouble and risk potentially being deported and banned from the country (not to mention causing a major international incident and pissing off just about every Muslim on the planet) just to get into a city to see some sites that aren’t even of religious significance to you.

What about women and children?

Parents may choose to bring even their very young children with them, but the hajj won’t “count” toward fulfilling the child’s personal religious obligation, as that requires the child to be mature enough intellectually and spiritually to understand the significance of the hajj.

Women are also allowed — indeed, required, just like every other physically and financially able Muslim is — to perform the hajj. However, they have to be accompanied by an appropriate male guardian (called a mahram). Here are the rules, per the US State Department:

Women below the age of 45 must be accompanied by a “mahram” (e.g. close adult, male relative such as a husband, son, father, or brother) for Hajj. Women must be met by their sponsor upon arrival. Women who are traveling alone and not met by sponsors have experienced delays before being allowed to enter the country or to continue on other flights. Women over 45 may travel without a mahram in an organized group, provided they submit a notarized letter of no objection from the husband, son, or brother, authorizing travel for Hajj with the named group. Violators face deportation.

Women who are members of the minority Shia sect of Islam (the majority of the world’s Muslims are Sunni), on the other hand, are not required by Saudi authorities to have a mahram when attending hajj and are allowed to travel alone. This is likely because Shia scholars have, unlike Sunni scholars, ruled that a woman may travel alone on hajj if she feels that she will be safe.

And since it’s basically impossible to talk about women in Islam these days without someone bringing up the issue of how much clothing they’re required (or not required) to wear, here’s a fun fact: Although women must cover their hair with a scarf, the face veil, known as a niqab, and the burqa, the garment that covers from head to toe with only a mesh-like panel through which to see, are not allowed during hajj.

Yes, you read that right: The two pieces of clothing that are the most controversial and are seen by many anti-Islam critics as symbols of the pervasive and pernicious cultural intrusion of Islam and its inherent oppression of women, are not allowed during one of Islam’s most sacred rituals, even though men and women mix freely during it.

Some women still wear them, though, despite the prohibition, and it doesn’t seem to be something that’s actually enforced. Some have also come up with rather creative workarounds, such as wearing large, darkly tinted sunglasses and those paper face masks doctors wear.

So why the prohibition? The reason is basically that while Mohammed’s various statements regarding women’s dress are hotly debated among Muslim scholars (Mohammed lived a long time, after all, and he said a lot of things over the course of his life), his statement on women not covering their faces (or hands) during hajj is crystal clear: A woman in the state of ritual purity for hajj “should not cover her face or wear gloves.” Not a whole lot of room for debate there (though, of course, people still do debate it, because humans).

Men also wear special clothing during hajj. Male pilgrims wear two pieces of clean, unstitched cloth (usually plain white) — one wrapped around their waist and one wrapped around their torso — and plain sandals. The purpose of making all men dress in this same simple garb is to strip away all indications of wealth and status so that all pilgrims are seen as equal, as they are in the eyes of God.

How in the world does Saudi Arabia handle such a massive number of people each year?

In general, the Saudi government does a pretty good job at managing things, all things considered. But not always: Over the years, there have been many horrific examples of large numbers of people dying.

1.5 million people are attending the hajj this year. That’s way bigger than the Olympics (10,500 athletes and 500,000 foreign tourists went to Rio for the 2016 Olympics), Burning Man (the annual gathering in the Nevada desert currently has an attendance cap of 70,000 ), and the average Taylor Swift concert combined.

It’s not the biggest world event — that honor probably goes to the Kumbh Mela Hindu religious festival held every three years in India (in 2013, some 100 million people are believed to have attended) — but it’s still pretty impressive. For instance, the Saudi government’s target for the number of people performing tawaf (circling the Kaaba seven times) last year was 107,000 an hour .

But considering there are an estimated 1.6 billion Muslims on the planet, all of whom are required to perform the hajj at least once in their lives if they are financially and physically able, the numbers could actually be a lot higher. The main reason they aren’t is because every year the Saudi government sets quotas for each country on how many pilgrims they’re allowed to send on hajj.

To manage the people who do get to come, the Saudi government has invested billions of dollars in building a vast and elaborate infrastructure in and around the holy sitesa massive hajj terminal at the main airport in Riyadh, a complex network of roads to bring pilgrims to the city of Mecca, wide foot bridges to carry the tens of thousands of pedestrians who move from place to place at preset, staggered times to minimize traffic flow (personal vehicles are prohibited, for obvious reasons, so most people walk everywhere, though some — mostly the elderly — take shuttle buses), multi-tiered galleries around the Kaaba and the jamarat (the stone walls where the symbolic stoning of the devil takes place), and more.

Perhaps the most stunning logistical feat, though, is the vast tent city at Mina, located just a few kilometers from Mecca, where more than 160,000 air-conditioned, fireproof, Teflon-coated fiberglass tents provide temporary accommodation for pilgrims. Men and women, even married couples, sleep in separate tents. The majority of the tents can accommodate about 50 people, and the average price for each pilgrim is $500, according to Al Jazeera’ s Basma Atassi.

However, luxury tents costing as much as $10,000 per pilgrim — including some equipped with jacuzzis — are available for those few wealthy enough to afford them. As Atassi writes, though, the Saudi government in recent years has taken steps to ban them, stating that they “defied the spirit of the Hajj.”

For 51 weeks of the year, the tent city, roads, and other infrastructure built to accommodate pilgrims are almost completely deserted. Then for one week each year, they seethe with humanity.

There is also an extensive security apparatus in place to monitor every aspect of the hajj — to maintain order and safety, but also to ensure that proper Islamic protocol is followed by all in attendance. This year, the Saudis have deployed tens of thousands of security forces to control crowds and help keep pilgrims safe.

Unfortunately, that same number of security forces wasn’t enough to prevent catastrophe from striking in 2015: That year, more than 2,400 people were killed when a stampede occurred at the intersection of two pedestrian walkways leading out of the tent city toward the jamarat bridge.

Though this was the deadliest hajj disaster in history, other disasters have occurred. As Al Jazeera’s Atassi notes:

A 1990 stampede inside a pedestrian tunnel killed almost 1,500 people, while stampedes in the stoning of the devil area in 1990, 1994, 1998, 2003, 2004 and 2006 claimed the lives of hundreds. The eruption of a fire in 1997 burned thousands of tents and killed over 300 people.

Health issues are also a major concern during the hajj. So many people from all corners of the globe gathering in such a small area means the chances of contagious diseases spreading through the population are very high. There is also a high risk of heat stroke, heat exhaustion, dehydration, and sunburn, especially when the hajj falls in the summer months (as it does this year). For instance, in August 1985 , 2,000 cases of heatstroke were reported, and more than 1,000 of the sufferers died within a few days.

To try to prevent this from happening, the Saudi government makes all pilgrims adhere to strict guidelines regarding vaccinations, especially for particularly contagious diseases such as meningitis. Pilgrims are also advised to drink lots of water and to be mindful of the perils of the blistering desert heat.

The Saudi government also provides complimentary water distributed from refrigerated trucks, air-conditioned tents at Mina, large sun-blocking canopies, and thousands of fine-mist sprinklers, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention .

Medical facilities are also available in and around the main hajj sites. As Asaad Shujaa and Sameer Alhamid write in the Turkish Journal of Emergency Medicine , in 2012 there were 25 hospitals with 4,427 bed capacity (500 critical care and 550 emergency care) and 141 health centers with 20,000 qualified specialized personnel. They also note that all health care is provided at no cost to all pilgrims.

And, finally, there’s the politics.

Saudi Arabia and Iran have for years been in a sort of proxy struggle for dominance of the Middle East and the broader Muslim world. Saudi Arabia’s government is officially Sunni, and Iran’s is officially Shia. Both countries frequently exploit this by pushing a sectarian worldview of Sunni versus Shia. And that often comes to a head over the hajj.

The political legitimacy of the Saudi royal family rests largely on its religious credentials, which it gets at home from the support of the country’s ultra-conservative Wahhabi religious establishment, and internationally from being the “custodian” of the two holiest places in Islam, the Prophet Mohammed’s mosque in Medina and Masjid al-Haram in Mecca.

Iran, then, has long sought to portray the Saudis as incompetent custodians in an effort to damage their credibility, and has even called for an international body to take over administration of these places. When a horrific stampede occurred at the 2015 hajj, Iran jumped at the chance to blame the Saudis.

More than 400 Iranian pilgrims were reportedly killed in the incident. But before most of the victims had even been identified, Iranian leaders issued statements blaming the Saudis for the accident.

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei stated , “The Saudi government is obliged to accept its heavy responsibility in this bitter incident and meet its obligations in compliance with the rule of righteousness and fairness; mismanagement and improper measures that were behind this tragedy should not be undermined,” and declared three days of mourning for the victims of the stampede.

The fight bled into the 2016 hajj. Khamenei issued a blistering statement on his website calling the Saudis murderers for their handling of the stampede last year and suggesting they may even have caused the stampede on purpose:

Saudi rulers were at fault in both cases. This is what all those present, observers and technical analysts agree upon. Some experts maintain that the events were premeditated. The hesitation and failure to rescue the half-dead and injured people, whose enthusiastic souls and enthralled hearts were accompanying their praying tongues on Eid ul-Adha, is also obvious and incontrovertible. The heartless and murderous Saudis locked up the injured with the dead in containers- instead of providing medical treatment and helping them or at least quenching their thirst. They murdered them.

Not to be outdone, Saudi Arabia’s top religious leader struck back, accusing the Iranians of being pagan fire worshipers, not Muslims. From Al Jazeera :

In comments to the Makkah newspaper published on Tuesday, Saudi Arabia’s Grand Mufti Abdulaziz Al Sheikh was quoted as saying that Khamenei’s remarks blaming Riyadh for last year’s tragedy were “not surprising” because Iranians are descendants of Magi. Magi refers to Zoroastrians and those who worship fire. Predating Christianity and Islam, Zoroastrianism was the dominant religion in Persia before the Arab conquest. “We must understand they are not Muslims, for they are the descendants of Majuws, and their enmity towards Muslims, especially the Sunnis, is very old,” Saudi’s grand mufti said, according to the AP news agency.

The Iranians also decided to bar their citizens from attending the hajj at all last year, claiming the Saudis failed to adequately guarantee the safety of Iranian pilgrims and accusing them of having “blocked the proud and faithful Iranian pilgrims’ path to the Beloved’s House [the Kaaba].” The Saudis, of course, blamed the Iranians , arguing they had refused to sign the agreement both sides had reached over the 2016 hajj:

“Saudi Arabia does not prevent anyone from performing the religious duty,” the Saudi foreign minister, Adel al-Jubeir, said at a news conference with his visiting British counterpart, Philip Hammond. “Iran refused to sign the memorandum and was practically demanding the right to hold demonstrations and to have other advantages … that would create chaos during hajj, which is not acceptable,” he added.

Whoever’s fault it was, no Iranian pilgrims were allowed at the hajj in 2016. In 2017, however, Iran lifted the ban, and around 80,000 Iranians performed the hajj that year.

And there are tons of Shia Muslims from other countries, too. For the most part, Sunni and Shia pilgrims on hajj get along just fine — despite the best efforts of the governments of Iran and Saudi Arabia to stir up sectarian tension every year for geopolitical gain.

That Sunni and Shia pilgrims come together as brothers and sisters in Islam during the hajj is a powerful reminder of how religion can unite people as well as divide them. Pilgrims planning to go on hajj are advised to avoid conflict and disagreement with other Muslims, to refrain from judging or being harsh toward others whose customs or interpretations of Islam may seem ignorant or incorrect.

Because that’s what the hajj is really supposed to be about: believers from around the world coming together, putting aside linguistic, cultural, class, and sectarian differences, and worshiping God.

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• Question Box

Can a Christian go to Mecca? I’m curious and would like to visit but don’t want to offend!

Well, it’s natural enough to want to go and see the place for yourself. Even people who know nothing about Islam use Mecca as a synonym for the ultimate goal. Every Muslim is required to make the pilgrimage ( hajj) once in her or her lifetime; it’s one of the Five Pillars of Islam. Non-Muslims are not, however, able to participate in the hajj. The area around the two sacred cities of Mecca and Medina is a sacred area prohibited to non-Muslims. But nothing about the hajj itself is secret. Through several videos, you can vicariously share in the pilgrimage experience. In 1997 a team of Muslim camera men documented the hajj experience for ABC’s Nightline and the 25 minute video is available at this link .

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Saudi Arabia Wants Tourists. It Didn’t Expect Christians.

In a fluid new age for the conservative Islamic kingdom, evangelicals have become some of its most enthusiastic visitors.

By Vivian Nereim

Photographs by Iman Al-Dabbagh

Vivian Nereim has reported from inside Saudi Arabia since 2015. For this article, she and the photographer Iman Al-Dabbagh spent five days traveling through Saudi Arabia with a Christian tour group.

The caravan of five Toyota Land Cruisers raced across Saudi Arabia’s rocky desert, weaving onto a highway so new it was not on the map. At the cleft of sea that splits the kingdom from Egypt, they stopped on a barren beach. Fifteen tourists spilled out and gathered around Joel Richardson, a Kansas preacher.

As the sun dipped below the mountains of the Sinai Peninsula — hazy across the water in Egypt — Mr. Richardson asked the group to imagine standing on the other side at the moment of the biblical Exodus, fleeing from Pharaoh’s army with Moses, when the sea ripped in half.

He opened a Bible, donned his glasses and began to recite. “Who among the gods is like you, oh Lord?” he said. “Who is like you, majestic in holiness, awesome in glory, working wonders?”

Two Florida retirees, a Colorado pharmacist, an Idaho bookkeeper and an Israeli archaeologist listened intently.

Jebel al Lawz

Site of Neom

These were not the visitors Saudi officials expected when they opened the country’s borders to leisure tourists in 2019, seeking to diversify the oil-dependent economy and present a new face to the world. First would come the adventurers, they thought — seasoned travelers searching for an unusual destination — and then the luxury market, with yacht owners flocking to resorts that the government is building on the Red Sea coast. No one in the conservative Islamic kingdom had planned for the Christians.

Yet Christians of many stripes — including Baptists, Mennonites and others who call themselves “children of God” — were among the first people to use the new Saudi tourist visas. Since then, they have grown steadily in numbers, drawn by word of mouth and viral YouTube videos arguing that Saudi Arabia, not Egypt, is the site of Mount Sinai, the peak where Jewish and Christian Scriptures describe God revealing the Ten Commandments.

Mainstream biblical scholars vigorously dispute this. But that does little to dampen the pilgrims’ enthusiasm as they embark on what is, for many of them, the trip of a lifetime, hunting for evidence that they think could prove the truth of the Exodus.

“It makes something tangible that you have believed in your whole life,” said Kris Gibson, 53, the Idaho bookkeeper on Mr. Richardson’s trip, who had never traveled beyond the United States and Mexico before she boarded a plane in February to Saudi Arabia.

For decades, nearly all of the tourists who entered Saudi Arabia were pilgrims going to Mecca, the birthplace of Islam. Openly practicing other religions was effectively forbidden. Synthetic Christmas trees were smuggled in and sold as contraband. People accused of “witchcraft” were executed .

The country’s religious dogmatism began to ease early in the 2000s, when tens of thousands of Saudis studied in the United States. Then, in 2015, a new king elevated his 29-year-old son, Prince Mohammed bin Salman, into the line of succession.

Prince Mohammed declared that he would turn the kingdom into a global business hub. He unleashed a cascade of social changes, stripping religious police of their powers, loosening dress codes and lifting a ban on women’s driving.

He also oversaw an increase in political repression , silencing almost every Saudi voice that might challenge him. In 2018, Saudi agents in Istanbul murdered and dismembered the Washington Post columnist Jamal Khashoggi, a critical exile. An American intelligence assessment determined that the prince probably ordered the killing, a charge he denied.

Since then, Prince Mohammed has defied attempts to isolate him, deploying Saudi Arabia’s oil wealth in new ways to cement the country’s influence, including this month’s surprise deal between a Saudi-backed golf league and the PGA Tour.

As Saudi Arabia traverses this fluid new age, once-unthinkable events have become commonplace , giving daily life the texture of a surreal dream.

Few Saudis would dare to speak of full religious freedom; atheists — and even Muslims who question the tenets of Islam — can face imprisonment . But religious taboos are shifting rapidly. Buddhist monks attended an interfaith gathering in the kingdom last year, and Jewish visitors recently planted date palm trees in Medina, Islam’s second holiest city. An American-Israeli man turned up in the capital, Riyadh, with a website proclaiming himself “chief rabbi of Saudi Arabia.”

The kingdom is changing so fast that people are often unsure what has official approval and what is an accident. Government entities did not respond to requests for comment about Christian tours. Some Saudis privately expressed bemusement, though, and expanding tourism is a priority as the country diversifies its economy.

There is also a more subtle incentive. Saudis have long been portrayed in North America and Europe through tropes that brand them as backward and barbaric. They view tourism as a way to redefine the narrative and showcase their culture: its hospitality, its generosity, its spiced coffee and deep-fried sweets.

“When you think of Saudi Arabia from the States, you certainly don’t think of this,” said Ms. Gibson, strolling through a canyon filled with palm trees.

‘How Beautiful’

When Ms. Gibson told a friend she was going to Saudi Arabia, he called her crazy. She worried about offending Saudis — wearing the wrong thing, eating with the wrong hand — but once she arrived, no one seemed to care.

“I’m just absolutely shocked at how beautiful it is,” she said. “Because, you know, in my head I’m thinking, nothing but sand.”

Israel and Egypt have local Christian populations and long ago welcomed Christian travelers, drawing millions of people a year, many of them American evangelicals. Saudi Arabia is a nascent market. But several tour companies now offer packages geared toward Christians.

Like most similar journeys, Mr. Richardson’s tour — costing $5,199 per person — covered an area that Prince Mohammed chose for a science fiction-inspired mega-project , Neom, where he plans to build a linear metropolis composed entirely of two parallel skyscrapers.

Neom’s planners promise to preserve archaeological sites. Still, some Christian tourists worry.

“I wanted to see it in its pristine nature,” said Michael Marks, 52, the pharmacist from Colorado, who accelerated his plan to visit because of the project.

Like many Christian tourists, Mr. Marks became interested in the kingdom through the story of Ron Wyatt, an American nurse who popularized the idea that Saudi Arabia was the location of Mount Sinai.

Biblical archaeologists typically place Mount Sinai in Egypt, although there are other theories. A minority points to writings by the Roman historian Flavius Josephus suggesting that Jebel al-Lawz, a mountain in northwestern Saudi Arabia, is the site. There is also local lore that Moses spent time in the area. “No historical or archaeological evidence support these stories,” Saudi archaeologists wrote in a 2002 paper.

In the 1980s, Mr. Wyatt smuggled himself into Saudi Arabia and was arrested for entering illegally. He made a series of dubious claims, including that he had discovered the remains of ancient Egyptian chariots under the Red Sea.

Nevertheless, his ideas — initially on the fringe of evangelical beliefs — spread. Several years ago, Ryan Mauro, a self-described security analyst and Fox News commentator, narrated a popular YouTube video, “Finding the Mountain of Moses,” in which he said: “The Saudis have been hiding the evidence of the Exodus.”

Such conspiratorial assertions are often coupled with Islamophobia, but Saudi officials appear to see little conflict in courting conservative American Christians . For one, they are relatively inured to prejudice against Muslims; declarations by Donald J. Trump, like “I think Islam hates us,” did not dent his warm ties with Prince Mohammed when he was president.

But also, links to these groups offer a new source of soft power, coveted as an alternative way of connecting to Americans even when formal U.S.-Saudi ties are rocky. In 2018, weeks after Mr. Khashoggi’s murder, the prince hosted a delegation of American evangelical leaders in Riyadh.

Evidence in the Desert

Mr. Richardson led his first tour to the kingdom in 2019, when the tourist visas were first available. A bearded man with a dry sense of humor, he was raised nominally Catholic in Massachusetts. As a teenager, he was a “very successful hedonist,” he joked.

But in the early 1990s, he came across a tent revival meeting in Tennessee and became an evangelical. “The Holy Spirit just spoke to me and said, ‘Your entire life is just a complete lie,’” he said.

He became fascinated by end-times prophesies, and in two books published more than a decade ago, argued that the Antichrist will be Muslim, describing Islam as a “totalitarian ideology” with “satanic origins.”

Asked how he reconciles his writing with what he calls a love of the Middle East, he said his perspective has changed, describing himself as a “conservative libertarian” who now has more of a live-and-let-live attitude.

On one of their last days in the kingdom, he took the tourists to a Bedouin camp, where their hosts milked a camel, pouring the frothy liquid from a silver bowl into cups for them to drink. Inside a tent lined with burgundy carpets, they dipped dates into fresh goat butter and feasted on meat and rice piled on platters the size of chandeliers. “This is such a privilege, that we get to be at the forefront of all this,” he said, praising the cultural exchange.

That pleasure alone is not what brings him to the kingdom; nor is profit from the tours, which are costly in a country where tourism is still new. Like many of the tourists, he is driven by an urge to uncover proof of the Bible’s stories, to walk where he believes they happened. The scenes of the Exodus fill him with awe. Finding signs that it occurred “would be the single greatest sacred biblical step forward in the past couple of thousand years,” he said.

“In my opinion,” he said, “all the evidence is sitting right out there in the desert.”

As they planned their journey, Luis Torres, 54, and his wife, Elinette Ramirez, 55, wanted to mark the occasion. They printed shirts with an image of a mountain crowned in flames with the GPS coordinates of Jebel al-Lawz.

To get there, the group drove for hours and hiked through a golden-brown canyon. “I want to give everyone time to reflect and pray,” Mr. Richardson said.

As a child, Ms. Ramirez had struggled to connect to the Bible’s stories. Now, she and her husband had traveled all the way from Puerto Rico to see the peak they believed was the mountain of God.

The sun beamed, sending rays floating into the valley, as they lifted their palms to the sky. “Hallelujah! Christ is coming!” they sang. “The trumpet will sound soon and the heavens will open up.”

When the time came to leave, Ms. Gibson lingered. She swayed as she gazed at the valley, wrapped in thoughts of the divine.

“All the majesty,” she said, her cheeks wet with tears. “I just got overwhelmed.”

Ahmed Al Omran contributed reporting from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Charo Henríquez and Isabel Kershner contributed translations.

Vivian Nereim is the Gulf bureau chief. She has more than a decade of experience in the Arabian Peninsula and was previously a reporter for Bloomberg News covering Saudi Arabia. More about Vivian Nereim

What to Know Before Visiting Mecca

The most important city in Muslim culture, Mecca is a unique place in the world. Here’s what you need to know if you’re going for the Hajj.

The central spot in the world for all Muslims, Mecca is a city that’s always closed for non-believers. In fact, traveling there as a Christian is punishable by law, and transgressors are promptly fined and deported. 

However, there are certain details even Muslim visitors should know before coming to the holiest site of Islam.

1. When to Come

For Muslims worldwide, visiting Mecca is obligatory if they are physically and financially able to make the journey. However, not all months of the year are equal when it comes to the Hajj. 

The pilgrimage is most valid if performed during the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijjah, which can be translated as the month of pilgrimage. 

Since the Islamic calendar is lunar, the year is about 12 days shorter than the regular solar year. This means that the months shift around and need to be calculated for each year. For example, the month of pilgrimage in 2021 starts on July 11, but it begins on June 30 the following year.

Luckily, visiting Mecca outside the designated period isn’t forbidden. But it doesn’t score as high and is only considered a minor pilgrimage.

2. How to Get There

There are special visas issued by Saudi Arabia for those who want to make the pilgrimage. The paperwork involved is quite daunting, which is why many Muslims resort to hiring travel agencies to take care of all the necessities. 

As expected for Saudi Arabia, women can’t travel alone but must be escorted by a man. The exceptions to this are women over 45 who are traveling as part of a group. But they must have consent signed by a man even then.

Once you get the paperwork in order, you can fly to Jeddah where there’s a dedicated airport terminal for those coming for the Hajj. From the city, you can take a bus, train, or travel by car to Mecca. 

If you’re driving there, non-Muslims can get to the Christian bypass that’s located several miles outside Mecca and they’ll get stopped at the checkpoint. Meanwhile, Muslims can pass the police checkpoint where they’ll likely be allowed to enter the city.

3. The Essential Sites 

Moving around Mecca is rather straightforward, as there are buses, taxis, and a metro. The crucial sites to visit in the city mainly revolve around the Hajj, with the priorities being the Kaaba and the Sacred Mosque that surrounds it.

Besides the two main sites, the Hajj often involves going to the plain of Muzdalifah where you can gather the stones to throw at the Devil. Once that’s done, you can then proceed to Mina, or the “tent city,” to spend the night and participate in the symbolic ritual of stoning the Devil.

Arafat hill is where Muhammad had his last sermon, while Jabal Al Thur is the cave where he hid from the Meccans trying to kill him. And visiting the mosque of Masjid e Taneem is an essential step in the pilgrimage.

Although not directly tied to the Hajj, the Mountain of Light or Jabal Al Noor is an essential site in Islam since, according to legend, that’s the place where Archangel Gabriel first revealed the Quran to Muhammad.

Another site that doesn’t directly relate to the pilgrimage is Abraj Al Bait or the Mecca Royal Hotel Clock Tower. This towering hotel complex looms over the Sacred Mosque and offers various amenities to pilgrims, including an Islamic Museum, a Lunar Observation Center, and more. 

4. What to Do

Many activities are available in Mecca and mostly revolve around religious matters. Visitors will have the chance to read the Quran, pray at the Sacred Mosque, stone the Devil at Mina, and visit the sacred sites, among others.

Besides these, you can visit some of the schools in Mecca including the Umm Al-Qura University, which is the only one of its kind in the city. There are also mountains around the city that are ideal for hiking. 

5. Shopping and Dining

Shopping in Mecca is widespread and you can check out local shops and malls that house various international brands. You can find an abundance of souvenirs to bring back home, as well as different religious items like prayer mats and Islamic hats.

Among the most precious trading commodities that you definitely shouldn’t miss are the Arabian perfume oils. These perfumes are made of natural ingredients and are less likely to irritate the skin. And their beautiful fragrance will last long even with the smallest quantity applied. 

When it comes to eateries, Mecca has a broad offer of restaurants that serve Middle Eastern, Indian, Southeast Asian, and international dishes. And if you’re in the mood for some classical American fast food, you can find everything from KFC and Pizza Hut to Dunkin Donuts. 

The food produced in the city is compliant with Islamic Law, which means there is no forbidden food like pork or ham.

Similarly, alcoholic beverages are forbidden both in Mecca and the whole country. But you can enjoy different juices, tea, and free Zamzam holy water.

6. Where to Stay

The range of hotels in Mecca is excellent. Pilgrims who can afford it can stay at the Hilton or the Inter-Continental, while others might choose accommodation in a lesser-known place. As expected, the prices of accommodations decrease as you move away from the Sacred Mosque.

Since Mecca can get quite crowded throughout the year, your best bet would be to book as early as possible to ensure a nice place to stay in some of the finer hotels in Mecca.

7. Safety Concerns

It’s not unusual for dozens of people to die under the stampedes of pilgrims that can be expected. Lately, some precautions have been taken to prevent the unnecessary loss of life. But the risk is still present. 

It would also be best to remain cautious of the pickpockets that lurk among the crowd. The best advice here is to leave your valuable possessions in a safe place before going out. 

Navigating Through the Holy City of Islam

As is the case with Middle Eastern locations, especially those as overcrowded as Mecca, there are many considerations and preparations to take before visiting. But for true believers, the experience is precious and will present a long-lasting memory.

12 Fascinating Mecca Attractions You Must Visit

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The Madeira you don’t know, but should

There’s a surprisingly large number of things to see in Mecca, and it’s not limited to religious sites either. Discover some of the city’s highlights you shouldn’t miss.

The holy city of Mecca is best-known as the site of pilgrimage for Muslims all over the world. And if you’re interested in other things to see in Mecca, there are plenty of attractions worth considering. 

In this article, we’ll tell you the 12 most interesting sights you should consider adding to your itinerary. 

1. The Kaaba and the Sacred Mosque

The Kaaba is an ancient Muslim sanctuary and the great mosque was built around it. Around four million people can fit into the world’s largest mosque. With its intricate structure and delicate decorations, it’s a fascinating sight to see. 

Visits to the holy site are quite challenging during the day, as the place is constantly overcrowded. That’s why coming there in the evening will prove much more pleasant.

2. Mount Arafat

Located east of the city, the Arafat hill is purportedly the spot where Muhammad delivered his final sermon. And according to Muslim belief, this location is where the faithful will resurrect.

With steep sections and piles of rock, the hill might be somewhat demanding to climb. But it’s entirely manageable if you stay hydrated and rest regularly as you go on that trek. 

3. Al Aziziyah District

This renowned shopping district is well-known for the markets, with the central market being the most popular spot. Conveniently close to the Sacred Mosque, Al Aziziyah is the best spot for those looking for clothes, accessories, shoes, cosmetics, and more. 

Both Al Aziziyah central market and the neighboring Al Majaz market house various local and international brands that deal in textiles and jewelry. 

4. Jabal Thawr

Jabal Thawr is a mountain over 4,500 feet high, and its significance lies in the cave where Muhammad hid while escaping the Meccans who wanted to kill him. There’s a wide path leading to the top and the mountain is perfect for viewing the surrounding landscape.

5. Muhammad’s Birthplace

The place where Muhammad was born now houses a library and museum. It’s an excellent spot for learning about the history of the religion. For devoted Muslims, being at the same spot where the prophet was born might be the most sentimental experience during their visit to Mecca.

Muhammad had the first revelations in this cave near the city of Mecca. The journey to the cave involves taking a three-hour hike up the mountain in the desert weather, making it quite challenging for most visitors. 

It’s recommended to bring plenty of water and some snacks to remain energized during the trip. Hikers should keep a reasonable pace so they don’t become exhausted before reaching the destination. Once on top, you’ll appreciate the excellent view of the city below.

7. Al Diyafa Mall

Contrasting the historical sites nearby, the Al Diyafa Mall is a modern-looking structure that houses lavish fashion stores and represents the trendy side of Mecca. Its name translates to ‘hospitality’ and the mall is located in the Al Zahir neighborhood 

With plenty of fashion stores, restaurants, and an area for children, Al Diyafa Mall is an ideal place where you can spend several hours browsing and shopping.

8. Abraj Al Bait

The giant building towering above the Kaaba, Abraj Al Bait is a complex owned by the government and represents one of the most famous attractions in Mecca. Located in it are a shopping mall, a high-end hotel, and a praying space. 

The outstanding feature of the massive building is the clock tower that can be seen shining like a beacon from miles away. There’s also an observatory at the top that offers a great view of the surrounding area, making the visit to the building a must.

9. Masjid E Taneem

Very close to Mecca, Masjid E Taneem is a mosque and one of the crucial points in pilgrimages. It’s outfitted with bath and changing facilities. Faithful Muslims use it as Miqat or a station where they can change into appropriate garments for the pilgrimage. 

Mina is a neighborhood designed for pilgrims to have a sleep-over during the Hajj. There are tens of thousands of tents that have air conditioning and Teflon coating for everyone to remain comfortable in the high desert heat. 

11. Makkah Mall

Away from the desert climate, Makkah Mall is a high-end shopping center with a vibrant atmosphere and plenty of amenities for all kinds of customers. This mall is the essential shopping hub for visitors and it houses many different brands, from local to international. 

There are various shops, boutiques, supermarkets, and restaurants, with over 140 brands represented there. You’ll also find various entertainment areas, making the mall very convenient for families with kids.

12. Al Wahba Crater

This volcanic crater can be found to the northeast of Mecca, an otherworldly area in the middle of the desert. Measuring almost a mile in diameter and featuring cliffs that reach the height of around 850 feet, the Al Wahba crater is truly massive. 

Among the most interesting things to see in Mecca is this crater when it becomes filled with water during the wet season. And once evaporation happens, a layer of salt is left covering the bottom. 

Created during the period when the area had plenty of volcanic activity, Al Wahba is surrounded by plains that contain large amounts of volcanic ash. You’ll find some refuge from the sun under the shade of palm trees when hiking through and around the crater. These trees cover the cliffs to the north and you can even choose to camp on the site.

Experience Mecca

From the unavoidable religious sites to excellent shopping venues and wonders of nature, there’s much to see in and near Mecca. It doesn’t matter what one’s level of devotion as a Muslim is. Every visitor will find something to enjoy in the holy city.

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Millions of people from around the world undertake the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca every year. Umrah is a pilgrimage that can be completed at any time of the year. 

Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah offers an electronic portal for Hajj registration and bookings. The portal allows for electronic Hajj visa applications and provides additional information, such as an FAQ page and awareness guides.

In order to participate in Hajj, U.S. citizens must have a permit issued through the Saudi Arabian Ministry Website. That rule applies whether you are visiting or living in Saudi Arabia.  If you participate in Hajj without a permit, you may be deported, detained, fined, or banned from future visits to Saudi Arabia.

Refer to https://hajj.nusuk.sa/ for all related information, including required vaccines and medical insurance, specific mobile apps needed to enter holy sites, and other details. Please also see the current Travel Advisory and Country Information page for Saudi Arabia.

Note:  Once you arrive in Mecca for Hajj, you must get permission from the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah to leave Saudi Arabia early, before the completion of Hajj.

Personal Security

Travelers seeking to perform Hajj and Umrah are often targets for scammers. Watch out for dishonest guides or people pretending to be tour operators, who may leave pilgrims stranded without paying their bills. Also, be cautious of hotels that demand fees to return passports.

There are reports of pickpocketing, theft, and other crime in Mecca, particularly in the area of the Grand Mosque. There are also reports of crime in Medina, where there are large crowds of people. Always carry contact information for your hotel and tour operator.

Keep travel documents (your U.S. passport or U.S. “green card” residency permit) secure during your trip.  Make two copies of your passport—including pages stamped with Saudi visas—with one saved digitally and the other in a safe place while you travel.

Emergency Contact Information for U.S. Citizens

• U.S. Embassy Riyadh: (966) (11) 835-4000
• U.S. Consulate General Jeddah: (966) (12) 220-5000
• U.S. Consulate General Dhahran: (966) (13) 839-5700

Between 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. local time in Saudi Arabia, Sunday through Thursday, ask for the American Citizen Services Unit. For emergency cases outside of those hours or during holidays,  use the same numbers listed above to reach a duty officer for assistance.

Visa Information

The Hijri calendar is used in Saudi Arabia for all official functions.  Please review the dates on your visa carefully, and make sure you know when it expires.

Do not overstay your Hajj or Umrah visa . If you stay in Saudi Arabia longer than you are allowed, you may have to pay fines in order to depart the country.  Fines can be thousands of dollars. You might also be held in detention until your deportation proceedings. Additionally, you could be banned from returning to Saudi Arabia in the future.

Permitted areas of travel and duration of stay:   If you are unsure, ask Saudi airport officials or the Passport Office (jawazat) for clarification upon arrival.

• Hajj and Umrah (pilgrimage) visas are  not valid for work or residency .
• Non-Muslims are forbidden to travel to Mecca and the portions of Medina which are considered sacred.
• All pilgrims visiting for Hajj must leave Saudi Arabia after the completion of Hajj.

Women Pilgrims

Women can register for Hajj without a male guardian if they go in a group with other women.

Travelers With Disabilities

Be prepared for standards of accessibility and accommodation below the minimum of what is required in the United States. While most of the Holy Sites, such as the Grand Mosque in Mecca, are accessible to disabled people , most hotels and transportation options are not. Check with your tour group provider to ensure your needs are well known and can be accommodated.

Photographs

You are not allowed to take photos (still or video, even with your phone) at the Holy Mosque in Mecca or the Prophet's Mosque in Medina. If you break this rule, your device may be taken away.

Safety and Emergency Information

Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.

Follow us on Twitter  @KSA_ACS  and  @TravelGov  as well as the U.S. Mission Saudi Arabia ,  Consulate General Jeddah , and Bureau of Consular Affairs Facebook pages.

Emergency Contact Information for Hajj Authorities

• The National Tawafa Company for Pilgrims of Turkey and Muslims of Europe, Americas, and Australia Telephone: +966-920-012-013 Fax:  966-920-006-620 Website:   http://www.teaa.com.sa/   Street Address: Mecca Al Mukarramah, Al Nuzha Road, near Alnuzha Bridge
• Health Affairs : 012-530-8812
• Lost Pilgrims: 012-530-8813
• Emergency Services : For all emergencies including ambulance service call 911.

What The United States Government Can and Cannot Do

We hope you have a trouble-free hajj or umrah like thousands of other pilgrims from the united states do every year. if something goes wrong, u.s. embassy riyadh and consulate general jeddah can help you with consular services, such as:.

• Arranging for emergency U.S. passports and “boarding foils” for lost I-551 (“green cards”) for U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents. After Hajj, please bring a report from the police station regarding the theft or loss, and a copy of your U.S. passport or green card if possible.
• Seeking to contact you within 24 hours of being told that you have been arrested . 
• Providing contact information for local lawyers and hospitals.
• Arranging for a spouse or next of kin to be informed if you are involved in an accident, are arrested, or die, and advising them on the appropriate procedures.

The U.S. government cannot:

• Arrange for travel outside of the designated areas in Mecca and Medina.
• Resolve alleged or actual immigration violations.
• Become involved in any disputes involving a travel agency, hotel, airline, or any other service provider.
• Manage airline, hotel, or other travel bookings.
• Pay for hotel, legal, medical, travel, or other bills.
• Obtain your release from prison.
• Provide legal advice or intervene in court cases or criminal investigations.

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Can christians go to mecca

No, they cannot enter the sanctuary of Makah (not mecca) as they are clean physically yet they are not clean in their beliefs and creed (they associate partners with Allah (God) by adopting the belief that Jesus and/or Mary/Holy Spirit share similar divine nature and attributes with Allah (God) who is unique in his all perfect divine nature and attributes). Please read the Noble Quran 9:28.

*Although it is still prohibited by Saudi law, many non-Muslims have secretly visited the shrines over the last 200 years. Among the first Westerners to do so was Sir Richard Francis Burton in 1853.

Add your answer:

How many Christian churches are there in Mecca?

Christians are not allowed in Mecca, so there are no churches in Mecca.

Are there no christians at all in mecca?

At any given time, there are a number of Christians in Mecca (Makkah), although it is against Saudi law for non-Muslims to enter the city.

Where do christians go for pilgramige?

If they want to. I don't believe that it is mandatory.

Do Christians have to go to Mecca?

Well one of the 5 pillars of Islam is to perform Hajj (pilgrimage to Mecca). So as long as you are financially, physically, and mentally stable, then it is compulsory for you to perform the pilgrimage.

How do you get to mecca?

you need to be in Saudi Arabia to go to mecca.

How can you buy a house in Mecca if you do not live in Mecca?

go online!!

What are places of worship in the middle east?

Christians go to churches. Moslems go to mosques. Jews go to synagogues.Most of the middle east people are Muslims. So every year, hundred of people go to mecca which is located in Saudi Arabia. It was the birth place of Prophet Mohammed.

How much does it cost to go to mecca from London?

it will cost £3540 to go to mecca from london

Is there Church in Mecca?

Roman Catholic AnswerIn the strict sense, ther is "Church" anywhere where there are Christians.

Are shea allowed to mecca?

Yes, Shi'ite (Shia) are allowed to go to Mecca.

What happens when you go to mecca once in your life?

You can say you've been to Mecca

Why do you think the pilgrimage to Mecca means so much to the Muslims?

It is their Holy City just as Bethlehem is to Christians

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