Masjid al-Haram, meaning "The Sacred Mosque," is the largest and holiest mosque in Islam, located in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. It surrounds the Kaaba, the most sacred site in Islam towards which Muslims face during their prayers. Masjid al-Haram is a focal point for millions of Muslims around the world who perform the Hajj pilgrimage and Umrah.
Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, often referred to simply as the Prophet's Mosque, is the second holiest mosque in Islam. Located in Medina, Saudi Arabia, it was originally built by the Prophet Muhammad himself and has been expanded over the centuries. The mosque houses the tomb of the Prophet Muhammad and is a significant site for pilgrims and visitors alike, known for its green dome and beautiful architecture. It serves as a place of worship, education, and community gathering for Muslims globally.
Umrah (also spelled as Umra) is an Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca that can be undertaken at any time of the year, unlike Hajj which has specific dates. It is sometimes referred to as the "lesser pilgrimage" or "minor pilgrimage" compared to Hajj, which is a mandatory pilgrimage for all able-bodied Muslims who can afford it and must be performed at least once in their lifetime. Umrah consists of a series of rituals performed in and around Mecca, including Tawaf (circumambulation of the Kaaba), Sai (walking between the hills of Safa and Marwah), and shaving or cutting of hair. It holds significant spiritual importance in Islam but is not obligatory like Hajj.