Mecca, Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦
#146
,
Nomad Score:
41%
Essentials
| 🏙️ City | Mecca, known as Makkah in Arabic, is the holiest city in Islam, located in the Hejaz region. |
| 👥 Population | Approximately 1.989 million residents. |
| 💻 Internet Speed | Average speed of 50 Mbps for mobile networks and around 20-30 Mbps for fixed broadband. |
| 💸 Currency & Banking | 1 USD ≈ 3.75 SAR. Banks like Al Rajhi Bank and Saudi National Bank are widely used. |
| 🚰 Tap Water | Not generally drinkable. It is advised to consume bottled water. |
| 🔌 Power | Voltage is 230V, 60Hz, with Type G sockets used. |
| 📶 SIM Card | STC, Mobily, and Zain offer good coverage and plans. |
| 💳 Banking for Expats | International banks like HSBC and Citibank are available; mobile payment solutions are also gaining popularity. |
| 🛌 Accommodation | Options include hotels, serviced apartments, and short-term rentals via platforms like Airbnb. |
| 💳 Cashless Friendly | Yes, many establishments accept credit cards, but cash is still common. |
| 🏠 Short Term Rentals | Airbnb and local rental websites host several short-term apartment listings. |
| 🛏️ Budget Accommodation | Hostel options like 'Albergue Mecca' and budget hotels near the Haram are available. |
| 🏙️ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | The area surrounding the Masjid al-Haram is preferred for easy access to the holy site. |
| 🏙️ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | Al Aziziyyah and Al Naseem are popular among expats for longer stays with more services. |
Working and Networking
| 🏢 Best Coworking Space | While specific coworking spaces are limited, cafes and hotels offer suitable work environments. |
| ☕ Best Cafe for Work | Cafes like 'Starbucks' and 'Illy Cafe' offer a conducive atmosphere for work. |
| 💼 Networking Events | Local expat groups often organize meetups, and information is shared on social media platforms. |
| 🥂 Social Events for Expats | Facebook groups for expats in Mecca host regular community gatherings. |
Transportation
| 🚕 Best Taxi/Ride App | Careem and Uber are both available for hassle-free transportation. |
| 🚲 Bike/Scooter Rental | Bike rentals are not commonly available; however, walking is popular in the center. |
| 🏖️ Best Beach Nearby | Jeddah Corniche is approximately 80 km away, making it the closest beach access. |
| ✈️ Top Regional Airline | Saudi Arabian Airlines (Saudia) provides excellent regional connectivity. |
| ✈️ Top International Airline | Major international airlines include Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Turkish Airlines. |
| 🛣️ Highway Access | Mecca is connected via major highways, including the Makkah Expressway. |
| 🚉 Main Train/Transit Hub | Mecca does not have a train station; the nearest is in Jeddah, approximately 70 km away. |
| 🚍 Public Transport Passes | Public buses are available, and transport passes can be purchased at stations. |
| ✈️ Regional Travel | Buses from Mecca to other cities like Jeddah and Medina are frequent and affordable. |
Health and Wellness
| 🏥 Best Hospital | King Faisal Hospital is a prominent healthcare facility in Mecca. |
| 🧘 Yoga & Wellness Centers | Wellness centers like 'BODYBAR' offer yoga and fitness classes. |
| 🏋️ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Popular gyms include 'Fitness Time' and 'Gold's Gym' for physical fitness. |
| 🧺 Laundry Services | Laundry services are available in most neighborhoods and hotels. |
Food and Drink
| 📱 Best Food Delivery App | Talabat and Carriage are popular for food delivery services in the area. |
| 🍽️ Best Local Dish to Try | Mandi rice, a traditional Arabian dish, is a must-try in Mecca. |
| 🍱 Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Restaurants like 'Huttan' and 'Vegan Delight' offer vegetarian dishes. |
| 🍫 Best Dessert Spots | Bakery 'Al-Medi & Sweets' is known for its traditional sweets. |
| 🛒 Affordable Shopping Spots | Markets like 'Al-Haramain' offer affordable food options. |
| 🛒 E-commerce/Online Store | Souq.com provides a variety of products with delivery options. |
| 🛒 Grocery Delivery | Grocery shopping can be done via apps like 'Nano' and 'Carrefour.' |
| 🍸 Bar/Nightlife Area | Nightlife is limited due to cultural norms; cafes remain popular for social gatherings. |
| 🍻 Local Brewery | Alcohol is banned in Saudi Arabia; local drinks include Arabic coffee and tea. |
| 🍷 Wine Bars | Wine bars do not exist as alcohol consumption is prohibited in Saudi Arabia. |
| 🍲 Street Food Stalls | Street vendors selling Shawarma and Falafel are common throughout the city. |
| 🍕 Popular International Cuisine | Many fast-food chains like McDonald's and KFC are available. |
Culture and Attractions
| 🎟️ Must-See Landmarks | The Kaaba and Masjid al-Haram are the most significant landmarks. |
| 🏛️ Museums & Art Venues | Museum of the History of Mecca offers insights into the city's past. |
| 🏰 Historical Sites | Cave Hira, where Prophet Muhammad received his first revelation, is a notable site. |
| 🕍 Religious Sites | In addition to the Kaaba, visitors should see the Arafat and Mina areas. |
| 🎉 Annual Events | The Hajj pilgrimage draws millions every year, transforming the city. |
| 🎨 Cultural Districts | The historical district of Al Azizia showcases traditional architecture. |
| 🎭 Theater Venues | Theaters are not common, but cultural events are held in local centers. |
| 🛍️ Local Markets | Souq Al-Hijaz offers traditional spices, textiles, and crafts. |
| 🎼 Music Scene | Music is primarily traditional; cultural performances can be occasionally seen. |
| 🎨 Street Art | Street art is limited due to local cultural regulations. |
| 🧑🍳 Cooking Classes | Local cooking classes for traditional Saudi dishes are offered in small workshops. |
| 👩🎨 Art Galleries | Limited galleries exist, mainly showcasing Islamic art and culture. |
| 🕰️ Historic Buildings | The Quba Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in Islam. |
| 🏴 Local Heritage | Mecca's heritage is deeply rooted in Islamic traditions, celebrated during Hajj. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
| 🌅 Nearby Nature Escapes | Jebel al-Nour offers hiking opportunities and stunning views of the city. |
| 🏞️ National Parks Nearby | Al Mashaaer Al Mugaddassah is nearby and holds historical significance. |
| 🚲 Cycling/Walking Paths | Limited designated paths; most walking occurs in the central areas. |
| 🌄 Scenic Viewpoints | Wadi Mina provides scenic overlooks of the Meccan landscape. |
| 🦉 Birdwatching Locations | Several areas around the city are suitable for birdwatching, though specific spots are limited. |
| 🔥 Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Bonfires are generally not permitted due to local regulations. |
Other Services and Amenities
| 📦 Parcel Delivery Service | DHL and Saudi Post offer reliable parcel services. |
| 🛠️ Tech Repair Services | Various shops across the city, like 'iFix,' provide tech repair services. |
| 🏓 Table Tennis Spots | Some gyms and community centers have table tennis facilities. |
| 🧑🏫 Language Classes | Language schools and local universities offer Arabic language classes. |
| 📚 Libraries & Study Spots | Libraries in universities often allow public access for studying. |
| 🏘️ Community Centers | Local community centers provide services and events for residents and expats. |
| 🕹️ Gaming Lounges | Internet cafes are available; however, competitive gaming facilities are limited. |
| 🎰 Casino & Gaming Halls | Gambling is illegal in Saudi Arabia, and no gaming halls exist. |
Business
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. 12,000 SAR per m² (e.g., 40 m² = 480,000 SAR) |
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. 9,000 SAR per m² (e.g., 40 m² = 360,000 SAR) |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. 11,000 SAR per m² (e.g., 60 m² = 660,000 SAR) |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. 8,500 SAR per m² (e.g., 60 m² = 510,000 SAR) |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. 10,000 SAR per m² (e.g., 80 m² = 800,000 SAR) |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. 7,500 SAR per m² (e.g., 80 m² = 600,000 SAR) |
| 💼 Corporate Tax | 20% on corporate income. |
| 💵 Dividend Withholding Tax | No withholding tax on dividends for foreign shareholders. |
| 🏦 Tax System | There is no personal income tax for residents. |
| 📈 Highest Income Tax Bracket | 0% for personal income. |
| 🧾 VAT | 15% standard VAT rate. |
| 🌐 Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Not applicable as there are no taxes on foreign income. |
| 🏠 Property Tax | No property tax exists, but some local fees are applicable. |
| 🏠 Property Transaction Tax | No tax on property transactions. |
| 💻 Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | No income tax on earnings outside Saudi Arabia makes it favorable for digital nomads. |