Haram Boundary Information
Understand the sacred sanctuaries (Haramain) of Makkah and Madinah and the strict divine laws that govern them.
Fiqh & RulingsThe Difference: Haram vs. Miqat
The Miqat
The Miqat are specific geographic points located very far away from Makkah (sometimes hundreds of kilometers). They are the points that a pilgrim intending Hajj or Umrah cannot cross without entering the state of Ihram.
The Haram Boundary
The Haram boundary is a much smaller perimeter immediately surrounding the city of Makkah. It marks the zone where the strict prohibitions of the sanctuary apply (like no hunting). If you are living in Makkah and want to do Umrah, you must leave the Haram boundary to enter Ihram (e.g., going to Masjid Aisha).
Strict Prohibitions inside the Haram
No Hunting
It is strictly forbidden to hunt, kill, or even scare away any wild animals or birds within the boundaries of the Haram. Even pointing out prey to a hunter is forbidden.
No Cutting Trees
You cannot cut, uproot, or break the branches of any green tree or plant that naturally grows within the Haram. (This does not apply to dry wood or plants specifically cultivated by humans for agriculture).
Lost Property
Picking up lost property (Luqatah) in the Haram is forbidden unless you intend to publicly announce it continuously to find its owner. You cannot keep it for yourself.
No Weapons or Bloodshed
Carrying weapons for the purpose of fighting or shedding blood is absolutely prohibited. The Haram is a place of absolute security and peace.
Entry of Non-Muslims
By divine command in the Quran (Surah At-Tawbah 9:28), non-Muslims are strictly prohibited from entering the Haram boundary of Makkah at any time. The Saudi government enforces this with checkpoints on all roads leading into the city. As for Madinah, non-Muslims are permitted to enter the city for business or travel, but they may not enter the Prophet's Mosque itself.