Traditional markets in Makkah: A journey through history and culture

List of traditional markets in Makkah

Makkah city is famous for its diversified traditional marketplaces. If you search, you may find lots of traditional markets in Makkah, but in this section, we will focus on the significant traditional markets list of Makkah. Explore now:

Souq Al-Mujan (سوق المجان)

• Distance from Masjid al-Haram: Approximately 3 km
• Founding Time: Over 1,000 years ago
• Starting Time: Generally opens at 8:00 AM
• Significance: This market is one of the oldest markets in Makkah. Souq Al-Mujan was a historically significant market because this place was the gathering place for traders from across the Arabian Peninsula. Here you may find a variety of traditional clothing, perfumes, and household items. This place is reputed for its authentic Arabian handicrafts and unique antique collections.

Souq Al-Otaibiah (سوق العتيبية)

• Distance from Masjid al-Haram: Around 2.5 km
• Founding Time: Established during the Ottoman era
• Starting Time: Opens at 9:00 AM
• Significance: Souq Al-Otaibiah is one of the busiest traditional markets in Makkah. It is famous for its budget-friendly products, such as affordable textile shops, abayas, perfumes, and gold jewelry. The market is popular among pilgrims who seek high-quality souvenirs at reasonable prices.

Bab Makkah Market (سوق باب مكة)

• Distance from Masjid al-Haram: 5 km
• Founding Time: 19th century
• Starting Time: Opens at 7:30 AM
• Significance: Bab Makkah Market is one of the most popular markets in Makkah. It offers traditional Arabian spices, dates, and Islamic books. This place is the best choice for those looking for religious items, prayer rugs, and traditional thobes.

Misfalah Market (سوق المسفلة)

• Distance from Masjid al-Haram: 1.8 km
• Founding Time: Over 500 years ago
• Starting Time: Opens at 8:00 AM
• Significance: Misfalah Market is another popular market due to its wide variety of handmade goods, including wooden prayer beads, incense, and traditional attire. This place offers a food hub where visitors can find fresh produce, nuts, and Arabian sweets like baklava and maamoul.

Al Aziziyah Market (سوق العزيزية)

• Distance from Masjid al-Haram: 6 km
• Founding Time: Early 20th century
• Starting Time: Opens at 10:00 AM
• Significance: Al Aziziyah Market is well-known for its electronics, clothing, and perfumes. This market is a perfect example of a modern and traditional market, which is offering both local and international brands. Bangladeshi pilgrims can visit this market for budget-friendly shopping experiences.

Al-Khansa Market (سوق الخنساء)

• Distance from Masjid al-Haram: 4 km
• Founding Time: Late 19th century
• Starting Time: Opens at 9:00 AM
• Significance: Al-Khansa Market is reputed for women’s fashion items, including embroidered dresses, silk scarves, and traditional jewelry. It is a great place for finding unique items that hold the rich cultural heritage of Makkah.

Tips for shopping in Makkah's traditional markets

If you visit Makkah's traditional market from Bangladesh, you need to understand some shopping tips. These tips give you a very wonderful shopping experience in Makkah. Follow the tips:

• Bargain politely: Shopkeepers in Makkah are very friendly; you may bargain politely to buy anything.
• Cash is preferred: Though the card is accepted, cash is highly preferable. Mainly payment methods depend on the shop’s quality.
• Shop early: If you like less crowded times, the morning is the best option for you. Other times, you may find huge crowds.
• Respect local culture: Follow the local guidelines, wear a modest dress, and behave politely with local people.

Visit Makkah with a reliable agency

Commonly, we often visit Makkah's traditional markets to buy various things while performing Umrah or Hajj. If you want to perform Hajj or Umrah with an exceptional Hajj or Umrah package or privately. Also, get experience with traditional market-visiting facilities; Hijaz Hajj & Umrah Limited is the best agency for you in Bangladesh.