Mecca, Saudi Arabia
Museums
There are several museums in Mecca that you can visit, such as the Museum of the Two Holy Mosques, the Zamzam Tower Museum, and the Kaaba Exhibition.
If you are interested in visiting museums similar to these in Mecca, you may also want to consider visiting the National Museum of Saudi Arabia in Riyadh or the Al-Ula Museum in Al-Ula, which are both located within Saudi Arabia.
Food
Some of the most recommended, popular and typical dishes to eat in Mecca according to local people include:
1. Al-Baik: A fast-food chain famous for its crispy fried chicken and tasty sauces.
2. Kabsa: A rice dish cooked with spices, meat (usually chicken or lamb), and vegetables.
3. Mandi: Another rice dish that is cooked with meat (usually chicken, lamb, or goat) and a blend of aromatic spices.
4. Shawarma: A Middle Eastern sandwich made with grilled meat (usually chicken or beef) wrapped in a pita bread with vegetables and sauces.
5. Haneeth: A slow-cooked lamb or goat dish that is seasoned with spices and served with rice or bread.
6. Saleeg: A creamy rice dish that is cooked with milk and chicken, and often enjoyed for breakfast.
7. Thareed: A stew-like dish made with layers of bread, meat, and vegetables, which are then soaked in a flavorful broth.
8. Mutabbaq: A type of stuffed pastry that can be sweet or savory, filled with cheese, vegetables, or meat.
These dishes can be found at local restaurants and food stalls throughout Mecca.
Activities
Some fun activities that local people enjoy in Mecca, Saudi Arabia include:
1. Performing Umrah or Hajj: Mecca is the holiest city in Islam and visiting the holy sites for Umrah or Hajj is a significant religious pilgrimage for Muslims.
2. Exploring the Jabal al-Nour Mountains: These mountains are home to the Cave of Hira, where the Prophet Muhammad is said to have received his first revelation.
3. Shopping at the local markets: The city has several traditional markets, including the Al Diyafa Mall, Souq Al Khalil, and Al-Zahra Mall, where you can find souvenirs, textiles, perfumes, and other items.
4. Visiting the Masjid al-Haram: This mosque is one of the largest mosques in the world and surrounds the Kaaba, which is considered the holiest site in Islam.
5. Trying local cuisine: The city has a variety of traditional Arabian dishes, such as Mandi, Kabsa, and Shawarma, which you can try at local restaurants and cafes.
