The Makkah Mountains are more than just rocky formations surrounding the holiest city in Islam. They’ve witnessed history, faith, and moments that changed the world forever. If you’ve ever visited Makkah, you know how these mountains dominate the landscape, standing tall like silent guardians of faith.
The Makkah Mountains, which are part of the Hijaz mountain range, stretch across western Saudi Arabia. Notably, they are composed of ancient volcanic rocks, some of which date back millions of years. Consequently, these mountains play a crucial role in shaping Makkah’s climate, making it predominantly hot and dry. However, occasional cooler winds from the highlands provide some relief from the heat.
Makkah Mountains Turn Green: A Sign of Change
The Makkah Mountains are turning green. This may sound surprising, but it’s true. Lush greenery now covers the once-dry and rocky mountains of Makkah. This surprising transformation has amazed many people, especially since Makkah has a hot, arid climate.
Rainfall has been more frequent in recent years. As a result, grass, small plants, and even wildflowers have started to grow on the mountains. People have shared videos and photos of Makkah’s green mountains, showing a once-unimaginable sight. This sudden change has sparked conversations, especially among those who are familiar with Islamic teachings.
Many Muslims are discussing a hadith about Makkah’s mountains turning green. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said,
“The Last Hour will not come before wealth becomes abundant and overflowing, so much so that a man takes Zakat out of his property and cannot find anyone to accept it from him till the land of Arabia reverts to meadows and rivers.”
This hadith suggests that the Arabian Peninsula will return to its lush, green state before the Day of Judgment. Seeing Makkah’s mountains covered in greenery has made many people reflect on this prophecy.
Seven Highest Mountains in Makkah
Makkah is surrounded by majestic mountains that have stood for centuries. These mountains are more than just natural landmarks. They are deeply connected to Islamic history and faith. Many of these peaks are steep, rugged, and challenging to climb. However, pilgrims, historians, and explorers continue to visit them despite their rough landscape.
1. Thawr Mountain (Jabal Thawr)
Thawr Mountain is one of the most well-known peaks in Makkah. It is 759 meters (2,490 feet) high and is located south of the city. This mountain is famous because Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA) sought refuge in its cave while migrating to Madinah.
The Quraysh tribes were searching for the Prophet (PBUH), and his life was in danger. Inside the Cave of Thawr, he and Abu Bakr (RA) hid for three days. During this time, a spider spun a web at the cave entrance, and a pigeon laid eggs nearby. When the Quraysh came close, they saw the web and the eggs and assumed no one was inside. This miraculous event saved the Prophet’s (saw) life.
Today, many people visit Jabal Thawr to reflect on this moment in history. The climb is steep and difficult, but the view from the top is breathtaking. It serves as a reminder of faith, patience, and trust in Allah (SWT).
2. Jabal Al Nour (Mountain of Light)
Jabal Al Nour is 642 meters (2,106 feet) high and is one of the most sacred mountains in Islam. It is home to the Cave of Hira, where Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) received the first revelation of the Quran.
Before prophethood, the Prophet (PBUH) would often retreat to the Cave of Hira to meditate and reflect. One night, Angel Jibreel (AS) appeared and revealed the first verses of the Quran.
This event marked the beginning of Islam. Today, thousands of people visit Jabal Al Nour to climb the Cave of Hira. The journey is tough, with over 1,200 steps to the top. However, those who make it say it is a deeply spiritual experience.
3. Jabal Omar
Jabal Omar is 505 meters (1,657 feet) high and is located right next to Masjid Al-Haram. Unlike other mountains, Jabal Omar has been heavily developed. Today, it is home to luxury hotels, shopping malls, and modern buildings.
Because of its location, Jabal Omar has always been a central part of Makkah. The expansion of the Grand Mosque has led to major construction in this area. While its natural shape has changed, its name and historical importance remain.
4. The Thabir Mountain
The Thabir Mountain stands at 700 meters (2,296 feet) and is known for its connection to Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and the sacrifice of his son, Ismail (AS).
According to Islamic tradition, this is the mountain where Allah (SWT) sent down a ram to replace Ismail (AS). Allah (SWT) commanded Prophet Ibrahim (AS) to sacrifice his son as a test of faith. However, at the last moment, He sent a ram to be sacrificed instead. This event is remembered every year during Eid al-Adha. This mountain is a symbol of obedience, faith, and Allah’s mercy.
5. Jabal Khandama
Jabal Khandama is 496 meters (1,627 feet) high and has played a key role in Islamic history. It is located close to Masjid Al-Haram. In the past, this mountain was a strategic point in battles and important events.
Today, Jabal Khandama remains a well-known landmark. While modern development has changed its surroundings, its historical importance is never forgotten.
6.Abu Qubais Mountain
Allah (SWT) is believed to have created Abu Qubais Mountain first, standing at 420 meters (1,378 feet) high.
One famous story linked to this mountain is about the Black Stone (Hajr Aswad). Some narrations say that the Black Stone was originally kept on this mountain before it was placed in the Kaaba by Prophet Ibrahim (AS).
People in the past also called Abu Qubais the “Mountain of Light” and believed that the moon once split over it during one of the miracles of the Prophet (PBUH).
7. Quaiqian Mountain (Jabal Hindi)
Quaiqian Mountain is 430 meters (1,410 feet) high and is also known as Jabal Hindi. This mountain has been part of Makkah’s landscape for centuries. It played an important role in both pre-Islamic and Islamic history.
Many old routes used by travelers and merchants passed through this mountain. Today, it stands as a witness to Makkah’s long history.
Wildlife and Natural Beauty of the Makkah Mountains
Despite being in a desert climate, the Makkah Mountains have their unique flora and fauna. You’ll find:
- Desert foxes and rock hyraxes, which hide in mountain crevices
- Arabian gazelles, which are now protected species
- Acacia trees and desert shrubs, which survive with minimal water
The rugged beauty of these mountains contrasts sharply with the modernity of Makkah, creating a stunning natural landscape.
Modern Infrastructure and Development
With the rapid expansion of Makkah, many of its mountains have changed. Urbanization has led to roads, tunnels, and modern structures cutting through these ancient peaks.
For example, the Jabal Omar Project near the Grand Mosque transformed the mountain area into hotels and commercial spaces. While these projects improve accessibility, they also raise concerns about preserving historic sites.
However, people are making efforts to balance modernization with heritage conservation.
FAQs About Makkah’s Mountains
The highest mountain in Makkah is Jabal al-Nour, which stands at approximately 642 meters (2,106 feet) above sea level.
One of the earliest known mountains in Makkah is Jabal Abu Qubais, often considered the first mountain created by Allah, according to Islamic tradition.
No mountain has physically seen Allah (SWT). However, Mount Sinai (Jabal Musa) is mentioned in the Quran (Surah Al-A’raf 7:143) as the place where Prophet Musa (Moses) spoke to Allah (SWT) and where Allah’s manifestation caused the mountain to crumble.
Jabal al-Nour is significant because it houses Ghar Hira (Cave of Hira), where the first revelation of the Quran was sent to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Additionally, Mount Sinai is mentioned in the Quran regarding Prophet Musa’s encounter with Allah (SWT).
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his companion Abu Bakr (RA) hid in Jabal Thawr, specifically in Ghar Thawr (Cave of Thawr), during their migration (Hijrah) from Makkah to Madinah.
Final Thoughts
The mountains of Makkah are not just ordinary hills and rocks; rather, they hold deep religious and historical significance. In fact, these mountains have witnessed revelations, miracles, and key moments in Islam. For example, from the first revelation in Jabal Al Nour to the refuge of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in Jabal Thawr, each mountain tells a powerful and unforgettable story.
Now, with the recent greening of Makkah’s mountains, many people believe this is a sign of prophecy. People are widely discussing the hadith about Makkah’s mountains turning green and reflecting on the changes happening today.
