Mecca, Saudi Arabia: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
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Ready to pack for Mecca, Saudi Arabia? If you're planning to go to Mecca, I have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Mecca
- Important essentials for Mecca
- Activities for Mecca
- Mecca in January: weather and what to pack
- Mecca in February: weather and what to pack
- Mecca in March: weather and what to pack
- Mecca in April: weather and what to pack
- Mecca in May: weather and what to pack
- Mecca in June: weather and what to pack
- Mecca in July: weather and what to pack
- Mecca in August: weather and what to pack
- Mecca in September: weather and what to pack
- Mecca in October: weather and what to pack
- Mecca in November: weather and what to pack
- Mecca in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Mecca, Saudi Arabia
Based on the climate and weather in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, the best time to go is January. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Mecca, Saudi Arabia
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Mecca, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Mecca, Saudi Arabia by month
January
January in Mecca is extremely warm and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also cleans contaminants:
thisBreatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can keep you cool and guard against skin damage:
Skirts
Waterproof sandals
Sunglasses
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and cool you.
Bug repellent
Loose-fit shorts
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Room protection door lock
If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Mecca. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, Saudi Arabia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel neck support pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to pick the right kind. Many adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to visit the majestic Masjid al-Haram, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Mecca tourism authority.
February
If you vacation in Mecca during February, you might see that it is extremely hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C). Humidity is generally between 30 and 40% during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Loose-fit shorts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and keep you cool.
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against the sun:
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also removes dangerous contaminants:
thisWaterproof sandals
Skirts
Sunglasses
Bug repellent
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good value.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Room protection door lock
If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Mecca. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Anti-theft backpack
For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Given current world events, Saudi Arabia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Check that you choose the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.
Travel pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to visit the majestic Masjid al-Haram, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Mecca tourism authority.
March
If you vacation in Mecca during March, you are likely to notice that it is blindingly hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 90s F (mid 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 30 and 40% during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Thin short sleeve shirts
Remember to bring additional, as these easily get wet or dirty.
UV protecting legwear
These will keep you safe from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are developed for cooling and include UV protection.
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are developed to keep you cool:
Waterproof sandals
Skirts
Sunglasses
Insulated water bottle
- this
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Room protection door lock
If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.
Anti-theft backpack
For additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Mecca. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, Saudi Arabia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
Our fave is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. It's important that you find the correct type. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to visit the majestic Masjid al-Haram, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Mecca tourism authority.
April
April can be sizzling and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the high 90s F (high 30s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Protecting pants/skirts
These will keep you safe from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are engineered to keep you cool:
Waterproof sandals
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are created to cool you and to provide UV protection.
- this
Thin short sleeve shirts
Do bring additional, since these get wet or dirty.
Sunglasses
Skirts
Insulated water bottle
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent value.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Mecca. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Room protection door lock
If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.
Given current world events, Saudi Arabia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
Our fave is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Make sure to pick the necessary kind. The majority of adapters available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to visit the majestic Masjid al-Haram, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Mecca tourism authority.
May
If you visit Mecca during May, you are likely to see that it is unbearably hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the 100s F (low 40s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 80s F (high 20s C). Humidity is generally between 20 and 30% during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Thin tank or crop tops
- our recommendation
100% UV protection sunglasses
We suggest:
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and protect you from the sun:
Waterproof sandals
High-SPF sunscreen lotion
One of these:
- like this one
Insulated water bottle
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Room protection door lock
If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Mecca. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Saudi Arabia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be careful to choose the correct kind. Most adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck support pillow
A great choice is this one
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to visit the majestic Masjid al-Haram, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Mecca tourism authority.
June
If you vacation in Mecca during June, you are likely to find that it is sweltering and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 100s F (low 40s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 80s F (high 20s C). Humidity is generally between 20 and 30% during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Insulated water bottle
Thin tank or crop tops
High-SPF sunscreen lotion
One of these:
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can make you comfortable and protect you from the sun:
100% UV protection sunglasses
We suggest:
Waterproof sandals
- like this one
- our recommendation
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent choice.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Room protection door lock
If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Mecca. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, Saudi Arabia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Make sure to choose the right kind. The majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel neck pillow
A good option is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to visit the majestic Masjid al-Haram, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Mecca tourism authority.
July
If you go to Mecca in July, you will notice that it is scorchingly hot and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the high 100s F (low 40s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Thin tank or crop tops
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from skin damage:
- our recommendation
100% UV protection sunglasses
We suggest:
- like this one
Insulated water bottle
High-SPF sunscreen lotion
One of these:
Waterproof sandals
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Room protection door lock
If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Mecca. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, Saudi Arabia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck support pillow
Our favorite is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be careful to choose the correct kind. A lot of adapters available are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to visit the majestic Masjid al-Haram, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Mecca tourism authority.
August
August for Mecca is blindingly hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the 100s F (low 40s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can make you comfortable and protect you from skin damage:
High-SPF sunscreen lotion
One of these:
- our recommendation
Insulated water bottle
Thin tank or crop tops
- like this one
100% UV protection sunglasses
We suggest:
Waterproof sandals
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Mecca. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Room protection door lock
If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.
Given current world events, Saudi Arabia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. It's important that you pick the correct type. Most adapters on sale are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel neck pillow
A great choice is this one
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to visit the majestic Masjid al-Haram, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Mecca tourism authority.
September
Traveling to Mecca in September, you will notice that it can be blisteringly hot and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the high 100s F (low 40s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
- like this one
Thin tank or crop tops
100% UV protection sunglasses
We suggest:
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from skin damage:
- our recommendation
Insulated water bottle
Waterproof sandals
High-SPF sunscreen lotion
One of these:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good choice.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Anti-theft backpack
For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Mecca. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Room protection door lock
If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.
Given current world events, Saudi Arabia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
Our favorite is this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to choose the right kind. A lot of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to visit the majestic Masjid al-Haram, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Mecca tourism authority.
October
October in Mecca can be sizzling and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the low 100s F (high 30s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Insulated water bottle
- our recommendation
Thin tank or crop tops
- like this one
High-SPF sunscreen lotion
One of these:
Waterproof sandals
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from skin damage:
100% UV protection sunglasses
We suggest:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Room protection door lock
If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Mecca. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Given current world events, Saudi Arabia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. It's important that you pick the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.
Travel pillow
Our favorite is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to visit the majestic Masjid al-Haram, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Mecca tourism authority.
November
If you vacation in Mecca during November, you are likely to notice that it can be sizzling and dry with little rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 90s F (mid 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 30 and 40% during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Skirts
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are specially designed for cooling:
Thin short sleeve shirts
It's important bring additional, as these often get wet or dirty.
- this
Waterproof sandals
Insulated water bottle
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are created to keep you cool and can provide UV protection.
Sunglasses
Sun protecting pants/skirts
These will keep your legs protected from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Room protection door lock
If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Mecca. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, Saudi Arabia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel neck pillow
A good option is this one
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be careful to find the correct type. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to visit the majestic Masjid al-Haram, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Mecca tourism authority.
December
If you go to Mecca in December, you will notice that it can be very hot and dry with little rain. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Insulated water bottle
Our pick also removes harmful contaminants:
thisBug repellent
Loose-fit shorts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and cool you.
Skirts
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against the sun:
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Waterproof sandals
Sunglasses
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good one.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Anti-theft backpack
For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Mecca. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Room protection door lock
If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.
Given current world events, Saudi Arabia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel pillow
An excellent option is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be careful to choose the correct kind. A lot of adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to visit the majestic Masjid al-Haram, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Mecca tourism authority.
What to do in Mecca, Saudi Arabia
Located in the Hejaz region of Saudi Arabia, Mecca is the holiest city in Islam, home to the Kaaba, Islam's most sacred site. Known also as the Hajj destination, Mecca attracts millions of Muslims from all around the world every year. But apart from being a pilgrim site, Mecca is also a bustling city full of vibrant culture, history, and beauty, making it a top tourist destination. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Mecca:
The Great Mosque of Mecca
The Great Mosque of Mecca, also known as Masjid al-Haram, is the most significant and historically relevant mosque in the Muslim world. It encompasses Islam's holiest site, the Kaaba, and is where the annual Hajj pilgrimage takes place. Non-Muslims are not allowed to enter the mosque, but its magnificent architecture and towering minarets are breathtaking to see from the outside.
The Kaaba
The Kaaba, a cubed-shaped building located in the center of the Great Mosque, is Islam's most sacred site. Muslims turn towards the Kaaba during their daily prayers, and it is the destination of the annual Hajj pilgrimage. The Kaaba is covered with a black silk and golden curtain, and visitors can walk around it seven times as part of the Tawaf ritual.
Jabal Al Noor
Jabal Al Noor, also known as the Mountain of Nur, is a mountain in Mecca famous for the Cave of Hira. It is believed that Prophet Muhammad received his first revelation from Allah in this cave, making it a sacred site for Muslims. The cave requires a 3-hour hike to reach, but the views of Mecca from the top of the mountain are breathtaking.
Quba Mosque
Located in the suburb of Quba, the Quba Mosque is the first mosque ever built by Prophet Muhammad and his companions. It is one of the oldest mosques in the world and is highly regarded by Muslims. The mosque's interior is decorated with intricate Islamic calligraphy, and its courtyard is adorned with a fountain.
Makkah Mall
Makkah Mall is one of Mecca's largest shopping centers, offering a range of international brands, food courts, and entertainment options. The mall is a haven for shoppers and a perfect place to cool off after a day of exploring Mecca's holy sites. It is located just a short distance away from the Great Mosque.
With its rich history and cultural significance, Mecca is a must-visit destination for Muslim and non-Muslim travelers alike. From the iconic Kaaba to the stunning views from Jabal Al Noor, and the bustling Makkah Mall, Mecca offers an unforgettable experience that will leave a lasting impression on everyone who visits.
About your travel guide
Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.
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