10 Dos and Don'ts in Makkah and Madinah

Planning a trip to Makkah and Madinah? Here's a quick guide to ensure your journey is respectful, smooth, and spiritually fulfilling:

Dos

1. Dress Modestly: Men should wear Ihram; women should wear loose, modest clothing.
2. Follow Prayer Etiquette: Enter mosques respectfully, maintain silence, and avoid walking in front of those praying.
3. Help the Elderly and Disabled: Offer assistance and make use of services like free wheelchairs.
4. Keep Areas Clean: Dispose of rubbish properly and maintain personal hygiene.
5. Learn Basic Arabic: Phrases like "As-salamu alaykum" and "Shukran" can help with communication.
6. Eat Halal Foods Only: Check food labels and certifications to ensure compliance.
7. Respect Local Laws: Avoid public displays of affection, smoking, or alcohol consumption.
8. Queue Patiently: Respect queues to uphold fairness and harmony.
9. Mind Your Language: Avoid offensive language or gestures.
10. Plan Ahead: Seek services like UmrahDeals for logistical support.

Don'ts

• Avoid Public Displays of Affection: Even between married couples, such behaviour is frowned upon.
• Do Not Jump Queues: Maintain order and patience, especially in crowded areas.
• No Smoking or Alcohol: Both are strictly prohibited and carry severe penalties.
• Avoid Offensive Behaviour: Be mindful of your words, tone, and gestures.

Quick Tips:

• Respect Local Customs: Familiarise yourself with Sharia laws and cultural expectations.
• Stay Prepared: Carry essentials like snacks, a prayer mat, and comfortable footwear.
• Focus on Spirituality: Use the time for reflection and prayer, avoiding distractions.

By following these guidelines, you’ll ensure a respectful and meaningful pilgrimage experience.

1. Dress Modestly and Appropriately

Your choice of clothing in Makkah and Madinah reflects respect, humility, and a sense of equality during this deeply spiritual journey. Let’s delve into the specific guidelines for men and women.

Men are required to wear Ihram, which consists of two simple, white, unstitched cloths: the Izar for the lower body and the Rida for the upper body. These garments should be worn without any sewn clothing, underwear, socks, or head coverings. Footwear must leave the ankles and toes uncovered, making sandals or slippers ideal. For comfort, consider lighter fabrics in the summer and warmer materials in the winter. This attire symbolises purity, humility, and equality before Allah.

Women are advised to wear loose and modest clothing, such as an abaya, jilbab, or burqa, ensuring that only the face and hands remain uncovered. A headscarf is also required. Closed shoes are recommended, and women should refrain from wearing makeup, accessories, or perfume while in Ihram.

Comfort is key, especially for the long walks involved. Choose supportive footwear to avoid discomfort. Once Umrah is completed, pilgrims can return to regular modest clothing, while continuing to adhere to the principles of modesty and respect.

Dressing thoughtfully not only honours the sacredness of this journey but also demonstrates consideration for fellow pilgrims and local customs.

2. Follow Prayer Etiquette

Prayer areas in Makkah and Madinah are places of deep reverence and reflection. How you conduct yourself here not only affects your spiritual connection but also the experience of those around you.

Entering the Mosque with Respect
When stepping into the mosque, enter with your right foot while reciting the prescribed supplication. If time and circumstances allow, perform Tahiyyat Al-Masjid (two units of prayer) upon entering. This small yet significant act sets a reverent tone for your visit.

Maintaining Silence
Silence is key in prayer areas. The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) taught:

"The one who is praying is conversing with his Lord, so let him think about what he is saying to Him. Do not compete with one another in reciting Quraan loudly."

Avoid talking during prayers or sermons, and keep your voice low to ensure others can worship without disturbance . Idle conversation or unnecessary noise detracts from the solemnity of these spaces.

Respecting Those in Prayer
Walking in front of someone praying is discouraged. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

"If the one who passes in front of one who is praying knew what (sin) he incurs, he would realise that waiting for forty is better than passing in front of him."

This applies to the space between the person standing in prayer and their place of prostration . While some scholars allow exceptions in Masjid al-Haram due to heavy crowds , it’s best to find another route or wait, preserving the sanctity of the moment.

Conduct in the Rawdah
The Rawdah, a particularly sacred area, demands patience and humility. Avoid pushing or causing disruptions. If someone unintentionally crosses your path while you’re praying, gently guide them without creating a commotion .

Practical Tips for Prayer Areas

• Seek quieter spots when possible, and be considerate of others’ worship.
• Refrain from excessive acts, such as touching or kissing the Prophet's grave.
• During crowded times, like Sa'yee between Safa and Marwa, consider using upper levels to avoid congestion.

3. Help the Elderly and Disabled

In the sacred cities of Makkah and Madinah, millions of pilgrims gather, including many elderly individuals and those with disabilities who may require assistance. Islam places immense importance on supporting and respecting those in need, and these holy spaces provide a meaningful opportunity to embody these values.

Islamic Teachings on Compassion

Caring for vulnerable pilgrims is a key aspect of respectful behaviour during your pilgrimage. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) highlighted the significance of honouring and supporting the elderly. He said:

"If a young man honours the elderly, Allah appoints someone to honour him in his old age."

This teaching reminds us to extend kindness and respect not just to our loved ones but to every elderly or disabled person we encounter. Additionally, he taught:

"It is out of reverence to Allah to respect the elderly Muslim."

These teachings underscore the spiritual value of helping others, especially in such sacred settings.

Ways to Offer Support

Small acts of kindness can make a big difference. If you notice an elderly or disabled pilgrim struggling, offer your seat or lend a hand. Navigating the crowded Haram, particularly during peak times like Ramadan or Friday prayers, can be challenging. Allow extra space and time to ensure those with limited mobility can move comfortably and safely.

Making Use of Available Services

The Saudi authorities have worked extensively to improve accessibility for pilgrims. For example:

• 12,000 standard wheelchairs are available free of charge.
• 8,000 electric and manual vehicles are provided to assist with movement.

If someone is having difficulty, guide them to these services or help them connect with the designated wheelchair aides.

Real-Life Impact

Consider the story of Umm Ayman Reda, who in June 2024 experienced smoother travel and easier participation in rituals thanks to these support services. This kind of assistance can truly transform a pilgrim’s experience.

One Civil Defense Department officer shared his perspective:

"We feel happiness while serving the guests of Allah, especially those who need special assistance like the elderly and handicapped. Our difficulties evaporate when we hear prayers of pilgrims for us and for the Kingdom and its rulers."

Helping During Rituals

During rituals like Tawaf and Sa’i, offer to assist with wheelchairs if needed - always ensuring you have the individual’s consent. Encourage breaks, help them stay hydrated, and if someone appears unwell, guide them to a rest area for recovery.

4. Keep Areas Clean

Maintaining cleanliness in Makkah and Madinah is both a spiritual duty and a practical necessity. With millions of pilgrims visiting these sacred cities each year, proper waste disposal and personal hygiene are essential to ensure everyone's wellbeing and to preserve the sanctity of these holy sites. A clean environment not only aids in spiritual focus but also reflects communal respect.

Islamic Foundation of Cleanliness

The significance of cleanliness in Islam is deeply rooted in the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), who said:

"Cleanliness is half of Faith".

This highlights that cleanliness is not just a physical act but also a spiritual practice that brings believers closer to Allah and honours the sanctity of these revered places.

Extensive Waste Management Systems

Saudi authorities have implemented an impressive waste management system to maintain the cleanliness of Masjid al-Haram and its surroundings. Over 3,000 waste bins and 3,500 cleaning staff ensure that the mosque is cleaned every 35 minutes.

During peak times, such as Hajj or Ramadan, the waste management system handles up to 100 tonnes of waste daily, with an average of 70 tonnes on regular days. In Madinah, at the Prophet’s Mosque, waste collection varies throughout the year, with approximately 60 tonnes collected daily during Ramadan, 15 tonnes during Hajj, and 6 tonnes on normal days.

Beyond the mosques, Makkah Municipality operates 138 ground warehouses and over 1,300 waste compressor boxes across the holy sites. All collected waste is transported 30 kilometres outside the city to designated landfills, ensuring the sacred areas remain pristine.

Proper Waste Disposal and Hygiene Practices

Pilgrims play a key role in keeping these areas clean. Always dispose of rubbish in designated bins. If a bin isn’t nearby, secure your waste temporarily until you find one. Leaving rubbish on the ground not only disrespects the sanctity of the environment but also creates hazards for others.

Personal hygiene is equally important. Regularly wash your hands, take showers, and wear clean clothing. These practices help reduce the risk of spreading illnesses, especially in crowded conditions. Avoid spitting on streets or pathways; instead, use sinks or dispose of tissues properly.

Hygiene and Wellbeing

Good hygiene practices have clear health benefits. For example, during Hajj 2019, 9.7% of pilgrims reported gastrointestinal symptoms, while 5.1% experienced diarrhoea. Maintaining cleanliness can significantly reduce such risks, making the physically demanding rituals more comfortable and fostering a respectful environment for everyone.

The Saudi government has invested over SR2 billion (£400 million) in cleanliness efforts. By practising proper waste disposal and personal hygiene, every pilgrim contributes to these initiatives, helping to preserve the sanctity and beauty of these holy sites for future generations.

5. Learn Basic Arabic Phrases

Picking up a few key Arabic phrases can make your interactions in Makkah and Madinah more meaningful. While many locals and staff understand English, using Arabic shows respect for the local customs and often leads to friendlier exchanges. Here are some essential phrases to help with greetings, expressing gratitude, getting around, and handling emergencies.

Essential Greetings and Responses

Start with the universal greeting: "As-salamu alaykum" (Peace be upon you), to which the response is "Wa alaykumu as-salam". For casual interactions, "Marhaban" (Hello) works well, with "Marhaban bik" as the reply. If you want to use time-specific greetings, try "Sabah al-khair" (Good morning) or "Masa' al-khair" (Good evening), and respond with "Sabah al-noor" or "Masa' al-noor" respectively.

Expressing Gratitude

A simple "Shukran" (Thank you) is always appreciated. For deeper gratitude, especially in religious contexts, say "Jazak Allahu Khairan" (May Allah reward you with good). This phrase carries a heartfelt message of appreciation.

Navigation Made Easier

When navigating, knowing a few key phrases can be a lifesaver. For example, ask "Ayna al-Haram?" (Where is the Haram?) to find the Grand Mosque or "Ayna al-Masjid An-Nabawi?" (Where is the Prophet's Mosque?) when in Madinah. While shopping, you can ask "Kam si'r hadha?" (How much is this?) and include "Min Fadlik" (Please) to keep your interactions polite.

Emergency and Assistance Phrases

In case of emergencies, shout "Mosa'adah!" (Help!). If you’re lost or need to report a missing item, use "La Ajid" (I can’t find) followed by the specific item, such as "Funduqi" (my hotel), "Majmuati" (my group), or "Jawaz Alsafar Alkhasi bi" (my passport).

Phrase	Meaning	Context
As-salamu alaykum	Peace be upon you	Universal greeting
Shukran	Thank you	Expressing gratitude
Ayna al-Haram?	Where is the Haram?	Finding the Grand Mosque
Min Fadlik	Please	Making polite requests
Mosa'adah!	Help!	Emergency situations

Building Connections Through Language

Using even a few Arabic phrases can deepen your connection with the local community and enrich your Umrah experience. Beyond facilitating daily interactions, these phrases help you engage in simple conversations and demonstrate respect for the shared language of Muslims worldwide.

Take some time before your trip to practise these phrases, focusing on pronunciation. Even small efforts to communicate in Arabic can lead to memorable moments and meaningful connections during your journey.

6. Do Not Eat Non-Halal Foods

Following halal dietary rules is a key way to show respect while in Makkah and Madinah. Ensuring your meals align with halal guidelines in these sacred cities involves carefully checking food labels and ingredients. While Saudi Arabia enforces strict rules around halal food, some imported items might not meet the standards. Here’s how to make informed choices when it comes to food.

Understanding Food Labels and Certification

When shopping, look for halal certification symbols from recognised Islamic organisations. These symbols usually include the name or initials of the certifying body alongside the halal logo. However, don’t just stop at the logo - always review the ingredient list too. Certain components, such as gelatin, L-Cysteine, mono- and diglycerides, rennet, alcohol, carmine, and enzymes, may come from non-halal sources. For meat and poultry, check for labels that explicitly state "Halal-Certified" and provide details about the Islamic slaughter process.

Local vs Imported Meat Products

Meat sourced locally in Saudi Arabia is typically halal, but imported meat requires extra caution. When eating out, ask if the meat is local (referred to as 'watani') to ensure it meets halal standards. This is especially important in restaurants and fast-food outlets, where imported meat might not always comply with halal regulations.

Safe Dining Strategies

If you’re unsure about meat options, fish and vegetarian dishes are often safer choices. However, be aware that some Islamic schools of thought consider certain marine animals - like eels, frogs, and shellfish - to be non-halal. When dining out, ask staff if the kitchen is dedicated to halal preparation and avoid dishes that might include questionable ingredients. To minimise risk, consider dining at Muslim-owned restaurants, where halal certificates are often prominently displayed. Local mosques can also guide you to trusted halal eateries.

Practical Tools and Precautions

Halal food apps can be incredibly useful for verifying certifications, especially if you’re cooking for yourself. Carrying snacks like dates or dried fruit is another practical option. And when in doubt, it’s better to avoid the food altogether. Keep in mind that labels such as "Suitable for Vegetarians" or "No Pork" do not necessarily mean the product is halal.

7. Avoid Public Displays of Affection

In Makkah and Madinah, public displays of affection are considered inappropriate, as modesty and respect hold significant importance in these sacred cities. Intimacy is regarded as a private matter and should remain so.

Saudi Arabia enforces a public decency code in Makkah, which explicitly discourages such behaviour. Violations can result in fines of up to 3,000 riyals (around £640). This reflects the cultural emphasis on maintaining dignity and respect in public spaces.

"There is a general expectation of modesty in one's deportment and respect of others' personal space in public"

• Kareem George, CEO of Culture Traveler

Acts like hugging or kissing, which might be seen as normal in other parts of the world, are reserved for private settings here - even for married couples. Maintaining a respectful distance in public is highly valued within the community.

Travel expert Elena Nikolova highlights that while holding hands may be acceptable, more overt displays, such as prolonged kissing, are not:

"kissing – especially for a prolonged time – is normally frowned upon, mostly because it makes [locals] uncomfortable. PDA is reserved for couples in private in many Muslim countries."

• Elena Nikolova

Beyond cultural expectations, avoiding public displays of affection is also a considerate gesture, ensuring that single individuals or others are not made to feel uncomfortable. Interactions between genders require particular care as well. Physical contact between unrelated men and women is generally discouraged, and men should only offer a handshake if the woman initiates it. These practices reflect the broader commitment to modesty and respect that is central to the Umrah experience.

For pilgrims, observing these customs is a meaningful way to show respect for local traditions and contribute to a welcoming atmosphere for all. These guidelines are not just rules but part of a shared effort to uphold the dignity and harmony that define the sacred journey of Umrah.

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8. Do Not Jump Queues

Respecting queuing etiquette is a cornerstone of maintaining harmony during your pilgrimage. With millions of pilgrims visiting Makkah and Madinah every year - including over 15.4 million inbound tourists to Makkah in 2022 alone - queues are unavoidable. They ensure fairness and equal access to prayers, meals, and transportation services, making patience in these moments an essential part of the pilgrimage experience.

The sheer scale of the pilgrimage, especially during Hajj, is staggering. With around two million pilgrims performing the rites annually, and peaks exceeding three million, managing such crowds requires order and mutual respect. Jumping queues disrupts this balance and contradicts the values of unity and equality that Hajj and Umrah symbolise for Muslims worldwide.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) highlighted the importance of patience and calmness, saying:

"O people, be tranquil, because it is not haste that indicates piety."

This advice is particularly relevant in crowded spaces like the Grand Mosque or the Prophet's Mosque, where thousands gather simultaneously. Queuing practices can vary by background - while some Western countries strictly follow "first come, first served" principles, others adopt a more relaxed approach. However, in the sacred cities of Makkah and Madinah, patience and order are expected from all, regardless of cultural habits.

To uphold proper queuing etiquette, stay calm and use the waiting time for dua. Offer support to elderly pilgrims who may need to lean on you, and assist separated group members in finding their way back. If someone tries to push ahead, gently guide them to the back of the queue without escalating the situation. Excellent manners are central to the Islamic faith, and this is especially true in these holy settings.

Your behaviour in queues reflects your spiritual discipline. Consideration for others, especially the elderly and disabled, demonstrates the values that enrich the pilgrimage experience. Good conduct is a key factor in the acceptance of prayers and deeds by Allah.

Rather than seeing queues as inconveniences, view them as opportunities for reflection and acts of kindness. Even a simple gesture, like smiling, holds spiritual significance, as the Prophet (peace be upon him) said:

"Smiling in your brother's face is an act of charity"

9. No Smoking or Drinking Alcohol in Public

Smoking and consuming alcohol are strictly prohibited in public areas throughout Makkah and Madinah. These rules are in place to uphold the sanctity of Islam's holiest cities and preserve their spiritual significance.

Under Sharia law, alcohol is entirely forbidden - this includes its consumption, possession, sale, and importation. Violations of these laws can lead to severe consequences such as fines, imprisonment, deportation, or even corporal punishment. These measures are intended to maintain the reverence of these sacred cities.

The Qur'an explicitly warns against intoxicants:

"O you who have believed, indeed, intoxicants, gambling, [sacrificing on] stone altars [to other than Allah], and divining arrows are but defilement from the work of Satan, so avoid it that you may be successful."

Likewise, the use of tobacco is heavily restricted, particularly in public spaces and around mosques. Since 2002, both Makkah and Madinah have implemented policies to become tobacco-free cities. Those who violate these rules risk fines and other penalties.

Islamic scholars have condemned smoking due to its harmful effects. Sheikh Muhammad ibn Ibrahim Aal Al-Sheikh, a former Grand Mufti of Saudi Arabia, declared:

"Smoking is impermissible on the basis of authentic quotations, sound judgments, and the opinions of reputable physicians."

To ensure you comply with these regulations, avoid bringing alcohol or any alcohol-related products into Saudi Arabia, including cooking wines or items with alcohol flavouring. Smokers should also refrain from smoking in public spaces. Instead, you can enjoy alternatives like traditional Arabic coffee, tea, or fresh fruit juices, which are readily available in both cities.

These strict rules reflect the sacred status of Makkah and Madinah. Yahya Saif, Assistant Undersecretary of Madinah Services, highlighted the collective efforts to eliminate smoking in Madinah:

"In line with the mutual efforts of relevant government bodies to emancipate Madinah from smoking, no licences for selling tobacco are renewed."

Disregarding these prohibitions not only risks legal repercussions but also shows disrespect for the sanctity of your pilgrimage and the faith of fellow Muslims.

10. Do Not Use Offensive Language or Gestures

Just as respectful physical conduct is crucial, being mindful of your language is equally important during your pilgrimage. In the sacred cities of Makkah and Madinah, your words and gestures should consistently reflect the profound respect these places demand. Think of it as an extension of proper dress and prayer etiquette - your behaviour, both verbal and non-verbal, is a reflection of your reverence.

Avoid using vulgar language, crude jokes, or any offensive remarks. Keep your voice low, particularly in public areas and near the mosques. Loud or disruptive behaviour can disturb the calm and spiritual atmosphere that so many pilgrims cherish. Even something as seemingly harmless as casual whistling can be seen as inappropriate and out of place in these holy settings.

Gestures matter too. Avoid pointing with a single finger or exposing the soles of your feet, as these can be perceived as disrespectful. Pay attention to your tone and facial expressions, as non-verbal communication often speaks louder than words.

Being sensitive to local customs can make a world of difference. A British visitor shared an insightful moment:

"When the woman pointed out my dress was inappropriate, I immediately said 'Aasif' [I'm sorry] and adjusted it. Her smile told me she appreciated my effort to respect her culture."

Simple Arabic phrases like 'Aasif' (I'm sorry) and 'Shukran' (thank you) can go a long way in showing respect and fostering goodwill.

It’s also essential to remember that your fellow pilgrims are not just travellers - they are your temporary neighbours in these sacred spaces, and their rights are even greater than those of your neighbours back home. Avoid any words or actions that could be taken as insulting or disrespectful.

The consequences of inappropriate behaviour go beyond mere social discomfort. Disrespect in Makkah and Madinah can diminish the spiritual benefits of your pilgrimage and may even invite divine displeasure. These holy cities call on you to embody the highest Islamic virtues: courtesy, patience, and kindness.

Approach every interaction with patience and maintain a warm and friendly attitude. It’s a small effort that carries immense spiritual significance.

Benefits vs Consequences Table

Adhering to established guidelines during your pilgrimage not only elevates your spiritual experience but also ensures a harmonious journey for everyone involved. Below is a comparison of the benefits of following these practices versus the consequences of ignoring them.

Following Guidelines vs Ignoring Them

Aspect	Following Guidelines	Ignoring Guidelines
Spiritual Benefits	Greater spiritual fulfilment. As Hazrat Abu Huraira (RA) said: > "From one Umrah to the next there is satisfaction for what happened before, and 'Hajj Al-Mabrur' offers no lesser reward than Heaven"	A diminished spiritual experience and the risk of invalidating Umrah rituals
Legal Consequences	A peaceful pilgrimage without legal complications	Risk of legal issues and severe penalties
Community Harmony	Promotes unity among millions of pilgrims	Causes disruptions and inconveniences for others
Personal Character	Spiritual growth and improved character, reflecting the Prophet's teachings on good manners	Missed opportunities for personal betterment and possible divine displeasure
Prayer Rewards	Full spiritual benefits, such as the reward of one prayer in Masjid Nabawi being equal to 1,000 prayers elsewhere	Reduced spiritual impact due to inappropriate behaviour during worship
Social Media Impact	Positive memories and respectful sharing of experiences	Risk of negative digital footprints and potential legal consequences
Financial Impact	Avoidance of fines and unexpected legal expenses	Increased financial strain due to penalties and legal fees
Relationship with Allah	Strengthened bond through reverence for sacred sites, as Allah says: > "If someone venerates the sacred signs of Allah, this is truly a sign of piety in the heart"	A weakened spiritual connection caused by disrespectful actions

This table underscores the profound spiritual, legal, and communal advantages of proper conduct, while also highlighting the risks and drawbacks of neglecting these guidelines. The Ashraf Fayadh case serves as a reminder of the strict enforcement of these standards, emphasising the importance of compliance.

Saudi law leaves no room for ambiguity:

"The law criminalises 'anyone who challenges, either directly or indirectly, the religion or justice of the King or Crown Prince'"

These are not merely cultural norms - they are legal obligations with serious implications.

By observing proper etiquette, you are not just avoiding penalties; you are embracing a rare and profound spiritual opportunity. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

"Perform Hajj and Umrah consecutively, for they remove poverty and sin as hollers remove impurity from iron"

Adhering to these guidelines allows you to fully immerse yourself in the spiritual rewards and transformative experiences of your pilgrimage.

Conclusion

A pilgrimage to Makkah and Madinah is a deeply spiritual experience. With over 750,000 pilgrims visiting each year, maintaining proper etiquette benefits not just you but the wider community.

The ten dos and don'ts discussed earlier are grounded in Islamic principles. As the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

"The best among you is the one who is best in manners".

Adhering to respectful behaviour ensures that your prayers are more meaningful and helps maintain the sacred tranquillity of these holy places. On the other hand, neglecting these principles could reduce the spiritual rewards of your journey and risk displeasing Allah.

A successful pilgrimage combines thoughtful planning with a focus on worship. Services like UmrahDeals can simplify this process by offering comprehensive packages that include flights, accommodation, visas, and ihram, alongside personalised WhatsApp support. This allows you to concentrate fully on your spiritual goals.

Proper preparation not only makes your journey smoother but also enriches your spiritual experience. As the Prophet (peace be upon him) wisely reminded us:

"Actions are but by intention".

FAQs

What should men and women wear during their pilgrimage to Makkah and Madinah?

Men are required to wear Ihram, which consists of two plain, white, unstitched pieces of cloth. One is wrapped around the waist (izar), while the other is draped over the shoulders (rida), ensuring that both the shoulders and knees remain covered. Footwear should be simple, leaving the ankles and toes exposed.

Women, on the other hand, should wear modest, loose-fitting clothing that covers the entire body, including a headscarf. While there are no specific garment requirements for women, the focus should be on modesty, avoiding any clothing or accessories that draw unnecessary attention. Comfortable and practical footwear is recommended, considering the long distances that may need to be walked.

How can I make sure the food I eat in Makkah and Madinah is halal, and what should I check on food labels?

Ensuring Halal Food in Makkah and Madinah

When in Makkah and Madinah, it’s important to ensure the food you consume is halal. Start by checking packaging for clear halal certifications or symbols. Look out for phrases like “Halal Certified” or certifications issued by recognised authorities. Steer clear of any products containing haram ingredients such as pork, alcohol, or their derivatives.

Although food in Saudi Arabia is generally halal due to strict regulations, it’s still wise to double-check, especially when dealing with imported products. If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to ask restaurant staff or shopkeepers for confirmation. To make things even easier, you can use halal-checking apps to quickly verify products while shopping.

What happens if you don’t follow public decency rules, like avoiding public displays of affection, in Makkah and Madinah?

Failing to adhere to public decency rules in Makkah and Madinah, such as refraining from public displays of affection, can result in fines or even legal action. These regulations are strictly enforced by Saudi authorities to uphold a respectful and dignified atmosphere in the holy cities.

To avoid any complications, take the time to understand the local customs and laws before your visit. Observing proper behaviour not only honours the sanctity of these cities but also helps ensure a calm and trouble-free experience during your stay.