History
The Quran describes the Kaaba as the first house of worship set up for mankind, with its foundations raised by the Prophet Ibrahim and his son Ismail (peace be upon them).
When the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) entered Makkah in 8 AH (630 CE), the Kaaba was cleared of idols and dedicated to the worship of Allah alone.
The mosque around it has been expanded many times over the centuries. The largest expansions were carried out by the Saudi state, and it can now hold millions of worshippers.
Key facts
- Inside the mosque
- The Kaaba, the Black Stone, Maqam Ibrahim, Zamzam water, and the hills of Safa and Marwah
- Rites
- Tawaf and Sa'i for Umrah and Hajj take place here
Before you visit
- Book an Umrah permit in the Nusuk app before you go. Prayer in the mosque does not need a permit, but Umrah does.
- Entry to the Makkah haram area is for Muslims only.
- Wear modest, clean clothing. Men performing Umrah wear ihram.
- Zamzam water is available throughout the mosque.
- It is most crowded on Fridays, in Ramadan and during the Hajj season. Plan extra time.
- Wheelchairs and electric carts are available for elderly and disabled visitors.