Cheapest Places for Food, Shopping, Hotels, and Ziyarat in Makkah

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Visiting Makkah is a spiritual journey—but it can also be expensive if you’re not careful. Whether you’re traveling for Umrah, Hajj, or a short pilgrimage, it’s possible to keep costs down without compromising comfort or experience.

Here’s a breakdown of the most affordable places for food, shopping, hotels, and ziyarat (religious site visits) in and around Makkah.

1. Cheapest Places to Eat in Makkah

You don’t have to rely on overpriced hotel buffets. Makkah has plenty of budget-friendly food options that serve generous portions.

Local Picks:

• Tazaj (several branches): Fresh grilled chicken meals for SAR 15–20.

• Al Baik (Al Hajlah or Aziziya): Famous fried chicken combo meals start at SAR 14.

• Mataam Al Turki: Affordable rice and meat platters; perfect for groups.

• Indian and Pakistani canteens near Misfalah or Aziziyah neighborhoods: You’ll find dal, roti, and rice dishes for under SAR 10.

Tip: Look for eateries frequented by locals and workers. These usually offer the best value.

2. Cheapest Areas for Hotels in Makkah

Hotel prices skyrocket the closer you get to Masjid al-Haram. But a short walk or shuttle ride can save you hundreds.

Best Budget Hotel Zones:

• Aziziyah: Located about 4–5 km from Haram, this area is known for cheaper accommodations and free shuttle buses during peak seasons.

• Misfalah: Within walking distance (15–20 minutes) to Haram, this area has many budget hotels and guesthouses.

• Al Awali and Kudai: Slightly farther out but well-connected by buses or Uber. Hotels here often offer half the price of Haram-facing options.

Hotel Options Under SAR 200/Night:

• Dar Al Eiman Ajyad

• Lamar Ajyad Hotel

• Snood Ajyad Hotel

3. Cheapest Places to Shop in Makkah

Looking for prayer mats, attar (perfume), Islamic books, or souvenirs? Skip the mall and try these markets:

Local Markets:

• Souq Al Diyafa: A busy local market known for clothes, household goods, dates, and gifts. Prices are negotiable.

• Al Aziziyah Market: Popular for abayas, thobes, and electronics at competitive prices.

• Street Vendors near Bab Al-Fahad: You can find prayer beads, scarves, and snacks here for a fraction of the cost inside mall shops.

• Bin Dawood (for essentials): This supermarket chain has fixed prices and good deals on snacks, toiletries, and gifts.

Tip: Bargaining is expected at local markets—don’t accept the first price.

4. Most Accessible (and Free) Ziyarat Sites

Makkah is home to many important Islamic landmarks. Some tour companies charge high fees for ziyarat trips, but many sites are free and accessible by taxi or ride-share apps.

Major Ziyarat Sites:

• Jabal al-Nour (Cave of Hira): A short drive from Makkah, this is a steep climb but free to visit.

• Jabal Thawr: Site of the Prophet’s hiding place during the Hijrah. Easily reached by car.

• Mina, Muzdalifah, and Arafat: While most associated with Hajj, these sites are open year-round and reachable by public transport or shared taxis.

• Masjid al-Jinn: Located near the Haram, this historic mosque is easily walkable.

Tip: Group taxi tours from Misfalah or Aziziyah can cost as little as SAR 20–30 per person, especially if you split the fare.

Final Budget Tips

• Use ride-share apps like Careem or Uber to avoid tourist taxi pricing.

• Shop after Isha prayer when street vendors offer better deals.

• Travel in shoulder seasons (e.g., before or after Ramadan) for better hotel prices.

• Look for package deals that include hotel, transport, and food for Umrah travelers.

Makkah doesn’t have to break the bank. With a little planning and local know-how, you can enjoy a meaningful trip while staying on budget. Whether it’s saving on a hotel or finding affordable ways to eat and explore, every riyal saved adds up.