Al Mesfalah is a vibrant neighbourhood set on the southern side of Al Masjid Al Haram. A wide selection of hotels and restaurants make it popular with pilgrims making their way to Al Masjid Al Haram, one of the most important Muslim mosques in the world. Use Al Mesfalah as a base for visiting Al Masjid Al Haram and other sights and attractions around Mecca.
Things to do in Misfalah
Al Masjid Al Haram, also known as the “Great Mosque of Mecca”, towers over the city. Open only to Muslims, it’s one of the most sacred Islamic religious sites on the planet and welcomes pilgrims from around the world. The mosque occupies an enormous 400,000 square-metre footprint and can accommodate 2.5 million worshippers.
In addition to making the pilgrimage to Al Masjid Al Haram, Al Mesfalah is a convenient base for visiting other sights and attractions around Mecca. Makkah Museum occupies a former palace and features exhibits on important archaeological discoveries, Islamic art and the evolution of Arabic calligraphy.
Venture out the city to visit the Cave of Thor, where the Prophet Muhammad hid from Quraysh soldiers after fleeing Mecca. The climb up to the cave is steep and strenuous, so be sure to pack adequate food and water.
From traditional “sambusak” pastries stuffed with cheese to ice cream topped with fresh fruit, the streets of Al Mesfalah will tempt you with dozens of food stalls. Local restaurants serve classic Saudi Arabian dishes like “jalamah” lamb cooked with onions and “kabsa” rice tossed with meat and spices.
Getting around Misfalah
Al Mesfalah is compact and easy to get around on foot. Taxis are a fast and affordable way to get to Al Masjid Al Haram and visit other sights and attractions in and around the city, while local buses also operate in the neighbourhood. King Abdulaziz International Airport is a one-hour drive away.