DIY Umrah: 10 Sacred Spots in Makkah Where Your Dua is Most Likely Accepted

DIY Umrah:   
10 Sacred Spots in Makkah

Where Your Dua is Most Likely Accepted

Salam and good morning, dear readers.

Let me begin with a humble disclaimer: I am not an ustaz, a scholar, or an expert in Islamic jurisprudence. I am simply a fellow Muslim who was blessed with the opportunity to perform Umrah, a journey that profoundly changed my life.

Like many of you, I went with a heart full of questions and a desire to connect with Allah in the most meaningful way possible. During my trip, I listened to different guides and ustaz, read voraciously, and compiled notes on where a pilgrim's dua is said to be most readily accepted. This blog post is my personal collection of that knowledge—a simple guide shared from one jemaah to another.

I will never forget the powerful emotion of making dua at the Multazam; for me, it felt like the most powerful spot to pour my heart out to Allah. And like every pilgrim, I carry the hope that on my next visit, insya'Allah, I will be able to get close enough to at least touch the Hajar al-Aswad.

This guide is what I wish I had before I went. I've since updated it with information from reliable online sources. I hope it helps you plan your spiritual journey. 

One practical tip I highly recommend from experience: get a Dua card or a small booklet . In the overwhelming grandeur of the Haram, it’s easy to forget the specific prayers for each rite. Having a physical card in your hand is a simple trick that helps you stay focused and present.

May this collection benefit you as it has benefited me. Let's learn together.

Remember: The acceptance of dua ultimately belongs to Allah ﷻ. Its power comes from a sincere, humble, and focused heart. These locations are blessed and recommended, but the essence of your supplication is your intention and devotion.

The Essential First Step: Your Umrah Permit via Nusuk 

Before you can even think about performing Umrah, you must secure a permit through the official Nusuk app (for international pilgrims) or Tawakkalna app. This is not optional.

• Why? Saudi authorities manage crowd control to ensure everyone's safety and a peaceful experience. Your permit will assign you a specific date and time to perform your Umrah.
• How? Download the Nusuk app , register your details, and apply for your Umrah permit. You will need your visa and passport information.
• Timing: Your permit is only valid for your allocated slot. Plan your entire day around this. You will need to show this permit at the gates of the Masjid al-Haram to enter the Mataf area (the ground floor circling the Kaaba) for your Umrah rites.

Crucial Note on Tawaf: If you are not in a state of Ihram and do not have an Umrah permit, you are not allowed to perform Tawaf on the ground floor (Mataf). You can perform voluntary (Nafl) Tawaf on the upper levels of the mosque at any time. However, to access the most sacred spots for dua listed below, you will need to be on the ground level, which is often restricted to those with active Umrah permits, especially during peak times.

Plan Your Dua Strategy: The best time to visit these sacred spots for extended dua is immediately after you complete your Umrah rituals (Tawaf, Sa'i and Tahallul). You will still be in the Mataf area and can take your time before exiting. Alternatively, come during less crowded periods like late at night.

The 10 Sacred Spots for Your Dua

Here are the places you should seek out with their significance and practical tips.

1. Hijr Ismail (The Hateem)

This semi-circular, low wall near the Kaaba is not just a historical site; it is considered a part of the original Kaaba’s foundation built by Prophet Ibrahim (AS).

• Significance: Praying here is equivalent to praying inside the Kaaba. It is a place of immense mercy.

  Hadith: The Prophet ﷺ said: “Pray in the Hijr, for your people left it out when they built the Kaaba.” (al-Tirmidhi)

• Tip: It's accessible without being in Ihram, but access may be controlled during peak Tawaf times.

2. The Mataf Area

The circular courtyard around the Kaaba is where Tawaf is performed. Simply being in this holy space is a blessing.

• Significance: The proximity to Baitullah (The House of Allah) makes it a powerful place for supplication.
• Tip: Your best opportunity for dua here is right after you complete your seven rounds of Tawaf, before you move on to Sa'i.

3. Multazam

Located between the Hajar al-Aswad and the Door of the Kaaba, this is one of the most renowned places for accepted supplications.

• Significance: Pilgrims cling to this wall, weeping and pouring their hearts out to Allah. It is a powerful symbol of begging for mercy and a tradition supported by the practices of the early Muslims.

"The Multazam is between the Black Stone and the door. A man should place his chest, face, forearms and palms against it and say..." (whatever is in his heart.)  
— Reported from 'Abdullah ibn 'Amr ibn al-'As in Musnad al-Bazzar

• Tip: It can get extremely crowded. Be patient and respectful of others and focus on your personal connection with Allah amidst the gathering.

4. Rukn al-Yamani (The Yemeni Corner)

The corner of the Kaaba that faces Yemen.

• Significance: It is Sunnah to touch it during Tawaf without kissing it or making gestures towards it. The Prophet (ﷺ) said: "Touching the Black Stone and the Rukn al-Yamani causes sins to be expiated." (Musnad Ahmad, graded Hasan by scholars). It is also a place where duas are said to be accepted.

• Tip: You can make a brief dua while passing it during Tawaf. It is a confirmed Sunnah to recite the following between the Rukn al-Yamani and the Hajar al-Aswad:

  رَبَّنَا آتِنَا فِي الدُّنْيَا حَسَنَةً وَفِي الْآخِرَةِ حَسَنَةً وَقِنَا عَذَابَ النَّارِ
  Rabbana atina fid-dunya hasanatan wa fil-akhirati hasanatan wa qina 'adhaban-nar.
  "Our Lord, give us in this world that which is good and in the Hereafter that which is good, and protect us from the punishment of the Fire."
  — (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:201)

5. Hajar al-Aswad (The Black Stone)

This stone, set in the eastern corner of the Kaaba, is believed to be from Paradise.

• Significance: It is a profound Sunnah to touch or kiss it, or gesture towards it (Istilam) at the beginning and end of each Tawaf circuit. The Prophet ( ﷺ ) said:

  "By Allah! On the Day of Qiyamah, Allah will present the Hajar al-Aswad in such a manner that it will have two eyes and a tongue to testify to the Imaan of all those who kissed it." (Tirmidhi, graded Hasan)

  It is the starting point for Tawaf and a symbol of pledging allegiance to Allah.

• Tip: Due to crowds, touching or kissing is often not feasible. If unsafe or difficult, simply raise your right hand towards it at the start of each circuit and say:
  “Bismillah, Allahu Akbar” (In the name of Allah, Allah is the Greatest).

6. Near Bab ar-Rahmah (The Door of Mercy)

Also known as Bab al-Kaaba - The door of the Kaaba, though raised and not accessible to pilgrims.

• Significance: It symbolizes a direct gateway to Allah's mercy.
• Tip: The area near it is highly venerated for making dua.

7. Under the Meezab-e-Rehmat (The Spout of Mercy)

The golden spout on the Kaaba's roof that carries rainwater down into Hijr Ismail.

• Significance: It is associated with divine mercy and blessings. It is said that dua made here is answered.
• Location: It pours down into the Hijr Ismail area.

8. At Maqam e Ibrahim (The Station of Ibrahim)

The stone upon which Prophet Ibrahim (AS) stood while building the Kaaba.

• Significance: Praying two Rak'ahs of prayer near it after completing Tawaf is a highly recommended Sunnah, directly commanded in the Qur'an.

  Qur’an: “And take the station of Ibrahim as a place of prayer.” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:125)

• Tip: The best time for a personal, heartfelt dua is immediately after performing these two Rak'ahs, while you are still in a state of prayer and closeness to Allah.

9. Al-Mustajar (The Southern Wall)

A less crowded but highly spiritual spot on the side of the Kaaba between the Yemeni Corner and the Stone Corner.

• Significance: This section of the Kaaba is known by the name Al-Mustajar (that which seeks forgiveness) or Al-Mustajab (where prayers are answered). While there is no authentic hadith from the Prophet (ﷺ) specifying its virtue, it is a place where many pious predecessors and scholars throughout history have advised making supplication, based on the general blessings of the Kaaba.
• Important Distinction: The name Al-Mustajar refers to the entire southern wall face of the Kaaba. This is different from the Multazam, which is a specific, smaller area on that same wall located between the Hajar al-Aswad and the Door of the Kaaba (Bab ar-Rahmah).
• Tip: As it is often less crowded than the Multazam, it can be an excellent place for a longer, more private dua. It is best visited after completing your Tawaf or during times when the mosque is less busy.

10. Zamzam Well

The Zamzaml well is now covered and not publicly accessible, but the water is available throughout the mosque.

• Significance: Zam Zam water is itself a miracle. The Prophet (ﷺ) said, “The water of Zam Zam is for whatever purpose it is drunk for.” (Ibn Majah).
• Tip: Make a specific intention and dua while you drink it. Face the Kaaba, say "Bismillah," drink in three breaths, and say "Alhamdulillah."

Best Times to Make Dua

• During Umrah rituals: after tawaf, before sa’i, and after completing sa’i.
• During Tawaf Sunat, especially late at night or early morning when Haram is less crowded.
• Between Adhan and Iqamah.
• After obligatory prayers.
• Last third of the night.
• When it rains.

Packing for Presence: Your DIY Umrah Essentials

Being prepared helps you maintain focus (Khushu’). Here’s what to bring:

1. Nusuk app : The most important tool on your phone. Ensure your permit is saved and ready. 👉 Download the Nusuk app and enjoy the full experience.

2. Comfortable Ihram: lightweight, non-slip, comfortable for long wear.     👉 Easily Available Online : Set Haji & Umrah Ihram

3. Pouch or talipinggang: A waterproof, secure pouch for your passport, visa, and vaccination certificates. This is crucial.   👉 Easily Available Online : Pouch cum Talipinggang

4. Dua Book/Cards: Instead of fumbling with your phone, bring a small physical dua book or laminated cards (available at stores like Tik Tok Shop Showcase). This helps you stay organized and present.   👉 Easily Available Online : Set Buku Doa Mini Umrah dengan 21 Flash Kad Doa Ringkas dan Zikir Tawaf

5. Sling bag (for women): A hands-free bag to carry your essentials during Tawaf and Sa'i.     👉 Easily Available Online : Hajj & Umrah Anti-theft Bags

6. Comfortable Sandals: Easy-to-remove footwear.           👉 Easily Available Online : Neckermann Men & Women Unisex Sandal

7. Prayer beads / digital counter → helps maintain focus during dhikr.       👉 Easily Available Online : Tasbih Digital

Safety & Etiquette Reminders

• Do not push or harm others trying to reach sacred spots — dua can be made anywhere.
• Respect local guidelines and security staff.
• Use the Nusuk app to plan your timings for Umrah and crowd management.
• Remember: sincerity is more important than location.

Conclusion: A Journey of the Heart

Your DIY Umrah is a personal conversation with Allah ﷻ. While seeking these sacred spots is a beautiful Sunnah, never forget that Allah ﷻ is always listening, everywhere. Plan wisely with the Nusuk app , approach each spot with humility, and pour your heart out in sincere supplication.

May your journey be accepted, your prayers answered, and your heart forever transformed by the blessing of being a guest of Allah.

Disclaimer: Rules and regulations regarding permits and access can change. Always check the latest guidelines on the official Nusuk app before your travel.