Mecca, Saudi Arabia: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

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, 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
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Saudi Arabia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • 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.

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
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Saudi Arabia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • 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.

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
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Saudi Arabia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • 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.

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
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Saudi Arabia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • 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.

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
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Saudi Arabia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • 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.

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
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Saudi Arabia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • 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.

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
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Saudi Arabia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • 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.

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
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Saudi Arabia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • 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.

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
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Saudi Arabia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • 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.

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
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Saudi Arabia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • 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.

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
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Saudi Arabia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • 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.

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
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Saudi Arabia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • 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.

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.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Had Yao, Thailand, Runnemede, New Jersey, United States of America, Jansenville, South Africa, Ooty, India, Indian Harbour Beach, Florida, United States of America, Bonndorf, Germany, Barra de Santo Antônio, Alagoas, Brazil, Achterhoek, Netherlands, County Galway, Ireland, St.

Thomas, Ontario, Canada, and Iringa, Tanzania.