Masjid al-Haram, the holiest site in Islam, is located in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, and is a must-visit for Muslims performing the Hajj or Umrah pilgrimage. Visitors should be aware that entry is restricted to Muslims only. Hajj occurs during the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijjah, so the mosque is extremely crowded at this time, and travel arrangements should be made well in advance. Umrah can be performed year-round, though visiting during Ramadan may also attract larger crowds. Generally, the best times for a less crowded experience are during the winter months. Entry to the mosque is free, but travelers should budget for accommodation and transportation, particularly if visiting during peak times when prices surge. It is practical to book through reputable travel agencies that handle pilgrimages for ease of access and to navigate required travel visas. Visitors should be prepared to spend several hours or even days in the area, as the spiritual rites require time and can depend on personal devotional practices.