Planning Your Stay in Makkah: Hotel Tips for First-Time Visitors

On a lower budget, you might instead consider hotels slightly off the center with shuttles to the mosque. It is worth noting that short distances, even in peak seasons like Ramadan and Hajj, can be hectic due to traffic.

2. Understand the Different Hotel Categories

Makkah offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury five-star hotels to modest three-star and budget lodgings. Here's a quick breakdown:

• Luxury Hotels: They feature upscale amenities, multiple dining options, and higher standards of comfort and cleanliness.
  
  

• Mid-Range Hotels: Usually found within a 10–20-minute walk from the Haram, these offer good service and facilities at more affordable rates.
  
  

• Budget Hotels: Ideal for travelers focused on spiritual experience and less on accommodation comforts. These are generally farther from the mosque and may have basic amenities.
  
  

First-time visitors should weigh comfort, convenience, and cost carefully when selecting a hotel.

3. Book Early – Especially in High Seasons

During Hajj and Ramadan and school holidays, demand for hotels in Makkah surges. In case you intend to travel during such seasons, it is prudent to make your reservation in your hotel a few months earlier to ensure a good location and affordable rate. Most reliable sites that deal with hotel appointments have flexible cancellation policies, and you can make plans in advance.

4. Check the Hotel’s Amenities

When comparing hotels, don’t just focus on star ratings; read the list of amenities and services included. Some things to consider:

• Shuttle Service to the Haram
  
  

• Elevator Access (crucial in high-rise buildings)
  
  

• In-room Prayer Mat and Qibla Direction
  
  

• On-site Dining or buffet services (especially useful for suhoor and iftar in Ramadan)
  
  

• Wi-Fi and air-conditioning
  
  

Paying attention to these details can significantly improve your stay, especially after a long day of rituals and walking.

5. Consider Room Size and Capacity

Room sizes in Makkah hotels can vary widely, and during peak periods, rooms may feel cramped. If you’re traveling with family or in a group, look for hotels that offer family suites or connected rooms. Be mindful of how many beds are provided, especially when booking triple or quadruple rooms.

Also, read reviews from past guests to get a sense of actual space and comfort beyond the promotional photos.

6. Read Guest Reviews and Ratings

Before making a final decision, spend time reading reviews from travelers who have recently stayed at the hotel. Look for comments about:

• Cleanliness and hygiene
  
  

• Customer service
  
  

• Proximity to the Haram
  
  

• Elevator wait times (often a complaint in tall hotels during peak hours)
  
  

• Accuracy of room description vs. reality
  
  

7. Be Prepared for Check-In Procedures

The check-in time at hotels in Makkah is in the afternoon (approximately 4.00 PM), and you may not be able to get an early check-in time due to high occupancy rates. In case you arrive earlier, you will be forced to carry your luggage and wait in the lobbies or the prayer rooms. A small bag in which some important items are stored can be useful. Also, the booking confirmation, the passport, and any other documentation you may be required to provide upon check-in will also be crucial.