MAKKAH
Makkah, in a desert valley in western Saudi Arabia, is Islam’s holiest city, as it’s the birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad and the faith itself. Only Muslims are allowed in the city, with millions arriving for the annual Hajj (pilgrimage). Dating from the 7th century, the central Masjid al-Haram (Sacred Mosque) surrounds the Kaaba, the cloth-covered cubic structure that’s Islam’s most sacred shrine.Mecca is situated at an elevation of 909 feet (277 metres) above sea level in the dry beds of the Wadi Ibrāhīm and several of its short tributaries. It is surrounded by the Ṣirāt Mountains, the peaks of which include Mount (Jabal) Ajyad, which rises to 1,332 feet,.Makkah (Mecca) is the most globally planned city in Saudi Arabia that holds a place of paramount significance in life of every Muslim. Although there are many places that are highly venerated but Makkah is considered the ‘’Abode of Allah’’. With world’s population of approximate 2 million Muslims travelling each year to perform Hajj and Umrah to this holy place, Makkah has always been the dream destination of every believing Muslim.
MADINAH
Madinah is a city in western Saudi Arabia. In the city center, the vast Al-Masjid an-Nabawi (Prophet’s Mosque) is a major Islamic pilgrimage site. Its striking Green Dome rises above the tombs of the Prophet Muhammad and early Islamic leaders Abu Bakr and Umar. The Masjid al-Qiblatain (Qiblatain Mosque) is known as the site where the Prophet Muhammad received the command to change the direction of prayer to Mecca.
Madinah is known and loved for the tranquillity that it brings to our hearts – that feeling that we have finally made it back home – home is definitely where the heart is and our hearts are profoundly connected with a deep love of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his beautiful city. It is city that is filled with stories of love and sacrifice, of prophetic wisdom and illustrious companionship. Madinah is a city that keeps on giving – rich in history and lessons that build our faith and traditions and inspire us to become the best versions of ourselves. Welcome home, welcome to Madinah.