Al Shahba Hotel Makkah

This was one of the best budget stays I’ve had near Masjid Al-Haram. The rooms were clean, beds comfortable, and nearby restaurants and easy transport made things convenient. My bathroom was a little small, but that hardly mattered for the value. The hotel is right on the main road, just a short walk or quick cab ride from the Haram. I travelled from Jeddah airport by train, and the station was only 15 minutes away by cab. I’d recommend it if you want an affordable place close to the Haram.

For anyone focused on praying and spending time in Masjidil Haram, this hotel is a gem. It’s not a luxury stay, but it had what I needed: a clean room and bathroom, warm water, a fridge, and a nice reception. The Haram is straight ahead from the hotel, with small supermarkets, restaurants, and souvenir shops nearby. It’s also right by a big street, so catching a taxi or Uber for pickup or drop-off is easy. If luxury is what you’re after, book a hotel in front of Masjidil Haram.

At reception, they said they couldn't find my booking and sent me to another hotel 16 km away.

The room itself was okay, and thankfully there were no bed bugs, which had been my biggest worry. But during our seven days, nobody cleaned the room, changed the sheets or towels, or even emptied the bins. We had to ask reception for toilet paper. When we asked for sugar, a staff member laughed and said there was none. They also wouldn't let us have a quick bite or sip while waiting for an Uber in reception. We booked at the last minute for Umrah last week. The price and reviews had seemed reasonable, but the walk to the Haram is difficult, so I wouldn't recommend it for anyone with mobility problems. It may suit younger travelers on a tight budget. The way staff treated us means I don't think I'll return.