Every Muslim pilgrim knows about “Zamzam water.” For Muslim pilgrims visiting Mecca, drinking this water from the well “Zamzam Spring” in the Holy Mosque holds special significance. While non-Muslims cannot enter Mecca, it’s actually possible for non-Muslim tourists to drink Zamzam water. In this article, I’ll report on my experience obtaining and drinking Zamzam water during my trip to Saudi Arabia.
Zamzam water is sacred water drawn from the “Zamzam Spring” well located inside Al-Masjid al-Haram (the Holy Mosque) in Mecca. This well is known for when Allah quenched the thirst of Prophet Ibrahim’s son Ismail as an infant, and there is a legend that as Ismail’s mother Hajar continued to pray while searching for water, Allah sent the angel Jibril, who struck the ground, causing water to spring forth. Because of this background, Zamzam water holds special value for Muslim pilgrims and is believed to have many benefits.
For this reason, Zamzam water is a staple souvenir among pilgrims to Mecca. Its popularity is so fervent that some airlines have special measures that exempt up to 5 liters of Zamzam water from checked baggage weight limits. On the other hand, taking it out of the country for commercial purposes such as resale is officially prohibited, and it can only be taken home for personal enjoyment among family and friends. While you may see Zamzam water being sold outside Saudi Arabia, these are often smuggled goods or counterfeit products. That’s why the desire to taste authentic Zamzam water in Saudi Arabia is a common wish among pilgrims around the world.
Warning: ‘Zamzam’ Holy water found in Ealing could be fake
As a side note, the name “Zamzam” comes from an onomatopoeia representing the abundant overflowing of water. It’s similar to expressions like “splash splash” in English.
Obtaining Zamzam Water
Danube Hypermarket in Medina
As mentioned earlier, non-Muslims cannot enter Mecca, so they cannot experience drawing Zamzam water directly from the well. However, since Zamzam water can be obtained in other Saudi Arabian cities, it’s possible for non-Muslims to taste it (which is completely acceptable both legally and morally).
5 liters for about $4 – quite a reasonable price for sacred water
This time, I found and purchased Zamzam water at the “Danube” hypermarket in Medina. Amazingly, a 5-liter bottle was priced at only about $4, which is very affordable. In fact, Zamzam water can be found at supermarkets throughout Medina, and it can also be purchased at Zamzam water sales counters at airports.
Now, let’s drink the Zamzam water I purchased! But first, let’s check how to drink it. When drinking, it’s recommended to face the direction of the Kaaba, recite Bismillah, drink in three parts while holding your breath, and feel gratitude to Allah after finishing.
However, even among Muslims, there are differing opinions about these recommended practices, with some saying they are newly established rules, so they’re not necessarily mandatory.
I tried drinking Zamzam water while sitting down
Also, it’s generally considered preferable to drink Zamzam water while seated, so I decided to drink it while sitting on a bench (though this too isn’t absolute, as Prophet Muhammad is said to have sometimes drunk it while standing, so many Muslims don’t worry about this either).
When I actually tasted the Zamzam water, it wasn’t dramatically different from regular water, but I could detect a mineral-rich flavor similar to hard water. While it remained within the realm of drinking water in taste, it had a subtle and unique flavor. Also, after quenching my thirst with Zamzam water, I somehow felt as if my travel fatigue had instantly recovered. The experience of refreshing both mind and body by drinking this special water is unique to Zamzam water.
By the way, in the summer heat of Medina, your body loses moisture without you realizing it, so the 5 liters of Zamzam water I purchased was gone in just half a day.
The Zamzam water bottle emptied in no time
About Its Benefits
Zamzam water is said to have many benefits, and is referred to as “blessed water” with the ability to satisfy hunger. It’s also believed to be effective in treating illnesses, and it’s said that if you drink it with faith and sincerity, your illness may be cured quickly. While I couldn’t verify these physical benefits, it’s certain that this water holds special meaning for Muslim pilgrims in particular and provides spiritual healing.
Good for Uses Beyond Drinking
Zamzam water can be used not only for drinking but also for other purposes such as pouring it over your face or head, using it in cooking, or for bathing. However, taking it out of the country for resale purposes is prohibited. Also, avoid wasting the water or using it in ways that contradict Islamic morality (such as using it to mix with alcohol). While it might look like just a bottle of water, it’s important to be conscious that it’s sacred water and to treat it with respect.
Stay at Pullman Zamzam Madina When Visiting Medina
When visiting Medina, booking Pullman Zamzam Madina is a must for its prime view of the Prophet’s Mosque!
Speaking of Zamzam, if you’re staying in Medina, I recommend the Pullman Zamzam Madina hotel. Especially from the Haram View rooms and Panoramic Haram View, you can enjoy a prime view of Medina’s highlight, the Prophet’s Mosque (Al Masjid an Nabawi)! While on the ground, you may often refrain from taking photos out of consideration for the pilgrims’ sincere demeanor, but from these rooms, even non-Muslims can observe the majestic structure without worry. Consider staying here when planning your visit to Medina!
Zamzam water is a treasure of Saudi Arabia known for its sanctity and special benefits. Even for tourists who cannot make the pilgrimage to Mecca, it’s possible to feel its sacredness through Zamzam water. Since it can be obtained at supermarkets and airports in Medina, please give it a try. Experiencing its taste and benefits will make your trip to Saudi Arabia even more special.
