Saudi Arabia is the birthplace of Islam. This beautiful country is full of history and is home to countless Islamic heritage sites. Even before Islam was born, the region was always home to the primary pilgrimage sites in Islam, which were officially given the sacred title afterwards. A journey through Saudi Arabia’s Islamic heritage sites enables you to learn so much about the religion.
Must-Visit Islamic Heritage Sites in Saudi Arabia
The Islamic heritage sites here make you feel closer to the religion and tell you ancient tales featuring the Prophet (SAW) and his companions. What feeling can compare to the sense of tracing the footsteps of our beloved Prophet (SAW), his companions, and his families in their cities? So, this is the perfect guide if you want to be among the countless UK citizens who travel to KSA for pilgrimage and to explore heritage sites.
#1. The Holy Kaabah
This black cubic structure is a source of peace and faith revival for Muslims. Everyone claims that the first sight of the Kaabah brings out so many emotions and tears. It not only brings you peace but also shakes you up spiritually. And if you have already booked Umrah 2025 deals, you should start preparing for this golden chance to express all your emotions in front of Allah Almighty.
How can a landmark be more significant than this one in Islamic history for the believers in Islam? The day it was declared the symbolic house of Allah Almighty was the day its immense significance was declared and set till the world is in motion. Only fortunate Muslims can visit this sacred site, so make the most of this golden opportunity while you are here. Ask Allah for forgiveness and spend all your time in His remembrance to experience the faith revival this pilgrimage promises.
#2. The Prophet’s Mosque
Muslims know the tranquillity that the sacred city of Medina holds, and this mosque is one of the most significant landmarks of this holy city. Knowing that the Holy Prophet (SAW) built this mosque himself and is now regarded as his last resting place makes all Muslims yearn to visit it at least once. You also get extensive rewards for praying at the Prophet’s Mosque and feeling the closest to the Prophet (SAW).
Praying at this mosque has great rewards. But all the pilgrims ensure to visit it to pay their respects to the Prophet (SAW). You cannot have a journey through Saudi Arabia’s Islamic heritage sites without visiting this remarkable and spiritual landmark, although it is not a mandatory ritual for the pilgrimage.
#3. Mount Arafat
When you learn about Islamic history, you know countless significant instances associated with Mount Arafat. Hajj pilgrims are required to stay a day at this mountain to fulfil a primary Hajj ritual, which speaks a lot about its significance in Islam. This is where Adam and Eve were reunited on earth, and Prophet Ibrahim (AS) took his son to sacrifice him in the way of Allah Almighty. Also, according to the Muslims’ belief, everyone will be gathered here during the Final Hour.
Therefore, this mountain is among the country's most sacred and must-visit Islamic heritage sites. If you are in the region for the pilgrimage, you will not be required to visit Mount Arafat. However, you can still see it, experience its spirituality and serenity, and feel closer to Islamic history.
#4. Al Balad
Al Balad is such a dreamy ancient town that everyone is guaranteed to fall in love with it. As it was the port city of Mecca, pilgrims from the sea arrived there. They had to get through this vibrant town to reach the pilgrimage sites in the sacred city of Mecca. This earned it the name of the gateway to Mecca and made it quite a famous town among tourists. So, while you are strolling around this town, you will feel like you are following the footsteps of the pilgrims who came centuries before you for the same purpose.
This town's ancient traditional buildings and narrow streets take you back in time. You will learn about the coral stone architecture of KSA and the stunning wooden lattice windows. Numerous bakeries here sell traditional sweets, the scent of which lingers in the air of Al Balad.
#5. Quba Mosque
Muslims built this prominent mosque on the first day of the Prophet's (SAW) immigration to Medina. Therefore, historians also claim this is the first mosque built in Islam, adding to its historical significance.
Also, Prophet Muhammad (SAW) visited this mosque every Saturday in his lifetime. So, what is a better feeling than knowing that you are praying at a place where the Prophet (SAW) prayed once? Everyone visits this stunning mosque for this sacred feeling alone.
#6. Uhud Mountain
The Battle of Uhud was one of the most prominent battles in Islam. In it, Muslims fought with the pagans of Mecca. This battle is more significant because it was one of the few early battles of the Muslims against the non-believers in which the Prophet (SAW) led the believers.
Another prominent historical event associated with the site is that the Prophet’s uncle lost his life in battle and is still buried at the site along with other soldiers who lost their lives even though the tombs were demolished. You can still visit the site to experience its spirituality and feel closer to the history and the prominent historical events.
Final Words
Everyone who goes to KSA for the pilgrimage tries to ensure enough time to explore all the Islamic heritage sites. This is because a journey through Saudi Arabia’s Islamic heritage sites is an enlightening experience every Muslim wants. So, if you have contacted an Islamic travel agency and you are planning your pilgrimage, make sure that you tell the agents about your desire to explore various heritage sites as well. This way, you will be able to get the right Umrah packages with enough time in the sacred cities for exploration.
What about you, have you ever been to Saudi Arabia? Feel free to share any tips & advice below! (Photo of Al-Balad by Abdullah on Unsplash)
ABOUTME
We overland. We eat plants and fungi. We live outside as much as possible. We are all connected. A female travel blogger overlanding and writing about ecotourism, ethical and sustainable travel, socially conscious travel and housesitting. An online travel magazine since 2015.
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