I still remember the first time I went for Umrah on a tight budget. I had saved up for months, and while the spiritual part was deeply fulfilling, the logistics? Let’s just say I learned a lot the hard way. Especially when it came to food.
You’re already walking for hours, standing in lines, dealing with heat, the last thing you want is to be overcharged for an average meal. So if you’re heading for Hajj 2025 and want to eat well without spending a fortune, I’ve put together this guide of budget-friendly restaurants in Makkah that are big on flavor and light on the wallet.
Most meals mentioned here are under 20 SAR, and yes, I did cross-check with my team mates at Marhabein so let’s dig in.
1. Alsafwa Tower:
This is hands-down one of the best-kept secrets unless you’re a seasoned KSA tourists like me.
Located right next to Masjid al-Haram, Alsafwa Tower isn’t just about luxury hotels. If you head to the food court levels, you’ll find small restaurants and takeaway counters offering everything from shawarmas to rice plates for around 15-20 SAR.
Best For: Hujjaj looking for something quick and filling after Tawaf.
What to Try:
I tried a plate of chicken mandi for just 18 SAR and honestly, the portion was generous. Also, the shawarma wraps here are often overlooked but they pack serious flavor.
2. Clock Tower: Fast Food, Familiar Comforts
Right behind the Kaaba, the Abraj Al-Bait Clock Tower is probably the most recognizable structure in Makkah. The food court here is massive and surprisingly affordable, only if you know where to look.
Albaik and Tazaj both have outlets here, and you can usually grab a full meal (including fries and bread) for under 20 SAR.
My advice: Albaik queues get intense, especially during peak Hajj days. If you go right after Fajr or between prayer times, the wait is shorter.
Who Should Try It:
Families or solo Hajji who want something reliable, fast, and comforting.
3. Jabal Omar: Sit-Down Spots With Real Meals
Just a short 10–15 minute walk from the Haram, Jabal Omaris home to some solid mid-tier restaurants that feel expensive but aren’t.
Places like Al Romansiah and Raydan serve full thali-style meals and rice dishes starting from 18 SAR. It’s ideal if you want to sit down, eat properly, and rest your feet without blowing your budget.
I loved the lamb kabsa at Al Romansiah. Super flavorful, and enough for two light eaters honestly.
Best For:
Groups or couples looking for a full meal without needing to go far.
4. Al Safwah Tower: The Yemeni Food Corner
This one surprised me. Tucked inside Al Safwah Tower, not far from Alsafwa Mall, are a few low-key restaurants serving authentic Yemeni dishes like Saltah, Mandi, and Fahsa, starting from 12 SAR!
The vibe is no-frills, but the food is hearty and cooked with love.
Go For: The saltah (spicy stew with rice), it’s ridiculously filling and flavorful.
Ideal For:
Hujjaj who want to try something different, and who don’t mind sitting among mostly local crowds.
5. Ibrahim Khalil Road: Desi Food Heaven
Walking down Ibrahim Khalil Road is like stepping into a mini-Karachi or Delhi. This street is known for its abundance of Pakistani and Indian restaurants. Perfect for comfort food on a budget in Makkah.
I grabbed a daal-chawal plate for just 10 SAR at one place, the guy threw in raita and salad for free.
Top Spots: Look out for names like Pak Punjab, Zamzam Restaurant, or New Deccan Hyderabadi.
Who Should Try:
South Asians in Makkah craving familiar food and big portions.
Also Read: Essential Hajj Packing Checklist 2025
What to Avoid When Eating Out During Hajj
Even though Makkah is filled with great food options, there are a few pitfalls first-time Hajji often fall into. Here’s what I learned the hard way, so you don’t have to:
1. Relying solely on hotel food courts
Hotel restaurants or in-house food courts (especially those in premium towers) can be super convenient, but they’re usually priced much higher than local eateries. You’re often paying for the location, not necessarily the quality or portion.
If you’re staying for several days, this cost adds up fast.
2. Trying new restaurants right before or after Salah
This is when things get hectic. Crowds surge in and out of prayer at the Haram, and most restaurants nearby get flooded during these times.
It’s not just the lines, service also gets slower, and sometimes food runs out. If you’re curious to try a new spot, aim for quieter windows like mid-morning or late afternoon.
3. Not checking prices upfront
Some small shops or street-side counters don’t display prices clearly, especially if they’re near tourist-heavy zones.
Always ask before you order. It’s not about being distrustful but it’s just that pricing can vary wildly, and you don’t want to be caught off guard.
4. Over-ordering “just in case”
You might feel tempted to grab a big order thinking you won’t get another chance to eat, but trust me food is available everywhere.
Over-ordering usually leads to waste (and sometimes a stomachache if you try to force it all down in one go). Start with one dish. You can always go back for more.
5. Ignoring water hygiene
Stick to sealed bottled water when possible. A meal that’s good can still ruin your day if paired with unclean water.
My tip: Always carry a spare bottle in your bag, you’ll thank yourself later.
Wrapping Up:
Eating well during Hajj doesn’t mean you need to break the bank. With so many pilgrims arriving from across the world, Makkah caters to every budget, you just need to know where to go.
As someone who has been through the journey on a budget, trust me when I say: these meals feel even better after a long day of worship.
Stay Tuned
We’re just getting started with our Hajj 2025 series. For more guides, spiritual prep tips, and on-ground hacks, follow Marhabein and don’t miss out on what’s next!
