What could be better than spending Ramadan in Makkah and Madinah? Every Muslim dreams of spending the holy month in the sacred cities. Here is a guideline for those who get this wonderful opportunity.

Things to Do in Makkah

Spending Ramadan in Makkah is one of the most wonderful experiences for a Muslim. The Spirit of Ramadan lies in sharing goodness with others. This becomes even more special when you are visiting the House of Allah.

●   Perform Umrah

Umrah during Ramadan is extremely virtuous. The atmosphere is surreal and so peaceful that you feel like coming back year after year. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) declared Umrah during Ramadan is equal to Hajj in reward. Therefore, perform Umrah with complete submission to Allah when you arrive in Makkah during Ramadan.

●   Suhoor and Iftar in the Haram

Suhoor and Iftar in the Grand Mosque is a majestic experience. Thousands of Muslims sit together and share the meal. Donors who arrange the food drive earn Allah’s pleasure by offering food to those fasting. You can replenish your energy with healthy, nutritious, and wholesome local food. Zamzam water and local dates are a sheer delight. One of the most memorable experiences would be to volunteer as an organizer for Iftar or Suhoor. Nothing gives more joy than participating with the locals in this noble act. Also, it is a source of immense reward by Allah.

●   Taraweeh Prayers

Observing Ramadan in Makkah allows you to perform Taraweeh prayer in the Grand Mosque. The ambiance is pure bliss when all the worshippers stand united in front of the Holy Kabah. People shed tears of joy as they bow in front of their Creator. 

●   Qiyam

When you visit the Holy Kabah, try to spend as much time as possible in the Haram. After breaking your first, you can rest for a while and then perform Tawaf. As the time for Isha approaches, the Haram starts getting crowded as people come for prayers. So it is better to stay in Haram to secure a a suitable place for Isha and Taraweeh. In the meantime, you can connect with religious scholars and gain some valuable knowledge. Reading the Quran in Haram is also a wonderful experience. Also, you get to interact with Muslim brothers from around the world. This healthy exchange boosts Islamic brotherhood and fraternity which is a profound feature of Islam.

●   Ziyarah

If you have time, visit the holy places in or near Makkah. These include the glorious Cave of Hira where our beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) used to meditate. It is the place where he received the first revelation from Allah through the angel Jibreel (AS). Cave Saur is also a must-visit place where the Prophet (PBUH) sought refuge with his companion Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA).

●   Explore Traditional Arabic Markets

Ramadan is the best time to feel the true essence of ancient Arabic traditions. Stroll along the local markets and stalls. Interact with Muslims from different parts of the world for an enriching experience. Try amazing Arabic cuisine including the traditional sweets and savory kebabs. Makkah lamb is a famous Arabic dish that Muslims from around the world try when they visit Makkah.

Things to Do in Madinah

Observing Ramadan in Makkah and Madinah gives unparalleled tranquility. While Makkah is Allah’s city, Madinah is fragrant with Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) essence.

●   Qiyam in Masjid-e-Nabawi

Hundreds of Muslims head to the Prophet’s (PBUH) Mosque in Ramadan. They sit wherever they get space and indulge in serenity. Madinah hosts its guests like no other. You can enjoy quality time worshipping Allah. Connect with Muslims from different countries and develop good camaraderie. Enjoy traditional food including rice with meat and delicious sweets at Iftar. At Suhoor take healthy meals including yogurt, fruits, and dry fruits. Recite the Holy Quran in the Prophet’s (PBUH) Mosque.

●   Prayer in Rawdah

Rawdah is a piece of Jannah located in the Prophet’s (PBUH) Mosque. It is one of the holiest places on Earth where prayers are accepted. Book your appointment at Rawdah with the Nusuk app and make the most out of this opportunity. Implore to your Creator with humility and affection.

●   Ziayarat

Depending on the availability of time, there are many places you can visit in Madinah. Quba Mosque, the first Islamic Mosque is a wonderful sight. Offer prayers in the Quba Mosque. Visit the majestic Mount Uhud and refresh the memory of the brave martyrs of the Battle of Uhud. Qiblatain Mosque is a marvel as it has two qiblas. It is the mosque where Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) received the revelation whereby Allah changed the qibla from Jerusalem to Makkah.

Tips For a Blessed Ramadan in The Holy Cities

Ramadan in Makkah and Madina is as crowded as Hajj. So it is better to plan your trip to avoid any mishaps. Reach Haram or Masjid-e-Nabawi earlier before it gets jam-packed. Drink plentiful Zamzam water at Suhoor and Iftar to keep your energy levels high. Make sure you rest during the day as the weather in Saudi Arabia is hot. Lastly, it is very important to show respect to fellow Muslims. Do not push each other or try to barge into places like Mataf or Rawdah. It is extremely distasteful to behave like that in such revered places.

Final Remarks

Observing Ramadan in Makkah and Madinah doubles the spirituality and virtuousness of Ramadan. It is a life-changing experience for those who find the Divine Guidance. Therefore, spend your Ramadan in the holy cities with sanctity and reverence.