Mt Noor, site of first revelation, flooded with Umrah pilgrims

Hira Cave, situated atop Noor Mountain (Jabal al-Nour), holds great significance as the location where the last prophet, Prophet Muhammad, received the first revelation. This site is among the most frequently visited places by Muslims traveling to Saudi Arabia. Muslims who assemble in the holy lands for Umrah ascend to the summit of Mount Noor through a winding road, predominantly consisting of soil. In the final stretch of this path, stone stairs are present, aiding the pilgrims in their journey to the top. Following an approximately one-hour journey, those who reach the summit are rewarded with a breathtaking bird's eye view of Mecca. Umrah pilgrims then proceed to the Hira Cave, situated 20 meters below, using a narrow road that accommodates only one person at a time. Visitors who brave the challenging and steep road to reach the Hira Cave offer their prayers with deep devotion and contemplation. As visitors ascend to the mountain's summit, they engage in prayer, recite the Holy Quran, and chant hymns and eulogies. Umrah pilgrims often choose to visit Hira predominantly at night, a practice influenced by the challenging transportation conditions and the intense daytime heat. The cave is filled with Muslims from diverse backgrounds—men, women, old and young—coming from various parts of the world.