As the birthplace of Islam itself and Prophet Muhammed (PBUH), Makkah is one of the world’s holiest destinations, home to sacred sites like the central Masjid al-Haram (Grand Mosque) and the Kaaba (a silk-covered shrine known as the bayt Allah, or House of God. Located in western Saudi Arabia, the city attracts millions of travellers and pilgrims each year, who make the journey to the city for the annual Hajj. Here are the 6 best hotels in Makkah to elevate your stay in the holy city.
Conrad Makkah
Conrad Makkah is one of the most popular hotels in Makkah, located just across from the King Fahad Gate entrance to Masjid al-Haram mosque and the Kaaba and a stylish blend of traditional Islamic and contemporary architecture. As is typical of the luxurious Conrad brand, rooms are light and spacious and boast all the modern amenities – decorated in attractive natural tones and offering a separate dressing area, complimentary wi-fi and exclusive butler service for an additional fee. Many rooms also offer direct views of Al Haram and Kaaba. In the hotel itself, guests have access to a modern fitness centre and four dining options – from lavish buffets in the Al Mearaj restaurant and sweet treats in the lobby lounge to juicy cuts in Prime Steakhouse, with an open kitchen and views of Al Haram.
Doubles from SAR895; hilton.com
Address Jabal Omar Makkah
The Address Hotels group is best known for its shiny Dubai hotels and beach resorts, luring travellers with its modern Arabian design, distinctive fragrant lobbies and fantastic facilities. The brand is not set to open in Mekkah, marking a new dawn for the holy city’s hospitality region and supporting the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 efforts of hosting 30 million pilgrims by 2030. The beautiful new hotel consists of two towers that frame the courtyard of the Grand Mosque – each structure comes with its own helipad and is home to 634 rooms and 108 suites (the hotel has 1,484 keys in total). Highlights include the world’s highest prayer room, accommodating up to 500 worshippers, a three-bedroom penthouse suite and a sprawling 470 square metre four-bedroom penthouse, alongside four restaurants – offering traditional Hejazi cuisine -, two lobby lounges, two club lounges and a state-of-the-art business centre.
Doubles from SAR990; addresshotels.com
Four Points by Sheraton Makkah Al Naseem
Part of Marriott Hotels’ Saudi portfolio, Four Points by Sheraton Makkah Al Naseem is an elegant and modern hotel located just a short ride from Makkah’s sacred Masjid al-Haram mosque and the Kaaba (a shuttle bus runs 24-hour services to and from). The spacious Ottoman-style property offers guests accommodation in 1,136 rooms and suites – which offer views of Makkah and Al Rajhi Mosque and comforts like mini-fridges, media centres and 24-hour room service. Suites offer separate bedrooms and living rooms, perfect for extended stays, and a fitness centre – with areas for both men and women – on-site retail offering, a business centre and two restaurants keep guests well fed and entertained. Umm Al Qura University, Makkah Mall and the sacred sites of Mina, Muzdalifah and Arafat are also located nearby, and the hotel has a large, free parking area (a rarity in the holy city).
Doubles from AED460; marriott.com
Wirgan Hotel Al Azizyah
For an affordable, modern and tasteful hotel in Makkah, look no further than Wirgan Hotel Al Azizyah. The four-star property promises to provide tranquillity, relaxation, and a sense of serenity to guests of its 381 rooms and suites – which are decorated in warm hues of cream and gold and with pops of wood and orange. Guests can make use of a 24-hour shuttle bus runs to and from the Haram, or take a stroll through the vibrant Al Azizyah commercial and residential neighbourhood – also walking distance from the Haram. An on-site restaurant and room service make this one of the most comfortable and approachable hotels in Makkah.
Hilton Suites Makkah
Perfect for families and groups travelling together, Hilton Suites Makkah offers exclusively suite accommodation just minutes’ walk from the Grand Mosque and moments from the new King Abdullah wing of Haram and Al Shubaikah Umrah entrance Gate. Guests will delight in traditional touches throughout the property – such as mashrabiya headboards, glittering chandeliers, patterned carpets, ornate horseshoe arches and latticework while appreciating modern rooms and public spaces. Most suites offer views of the Haram and are fitted with speakers with individual control to listen to Azan, while several restaurants and coffee shops all face the Grand Mosque – making dining in the hotel a treat. The hotel is connected to a modern shopping mall and a stone’s throw from the As-Haabee Exhibition and The Holy Qur’an Exhibition.
Doubles from AED895; hilton.com
Jabal Omar Marriott Hotel Makkah
For a more traditional stay in the holy city, check into Jabal Omar Marriott Hotel Makkah – a grand hotel that delights guests with Arabesque design touches and warming shades or red, orange and teak throughout the property. The hotel is one of the most luxurious in the Jabal Omar complex, located in the heart of Makkah and just a three-minute walk to Al-Masjid Al-Haram. The 426 rooms and 52 premium suites and spacious and cosy with high ceilings, patterned carpets and picture windows across the city, while two restaurants – Spice Market and Olive – serve international fair and views of the holy Haram. A private prayer hall overlooks the Grand Mosque, and Harm Imam is linked to an internal sound system – making every part of your trip to Makkah feel special.
Doubles from SAR760; marriott.com
