Cecily Yim

2022/12/13

It is my third time to perform umrah in Makkah but this time my umrah is blessed with a visit to Mr Bender's home. His family was welcoming me with lots of Saudi coffee, Zam Zam water with bahkhu, special Hijazi drinks and many types of delicious local sweets. Mr Bender, a top-notch, professional Hijazi photographer, was passionately showing me his photo masterpieces on the wall and the ceiling-- works beautifully capturing the charm of Makkah and Madinah. I am amazed at his sense of art and sophisticated skills of photography but his home is more than a photo studio, Mr Bender also showed me his collection of traditional family items such as cameras, tea pots, carpets, television, heater and many many things which all go back to his grandparents and parents. All items are kept in good condition because Mr Bender is very fond of preserving his family heritage and introducing such wealth to visitors. I am very fortunate to have visited Mr Bender in Makkah. They are wonderful people and represent fully the generosity and hospitality of Makkah. Walahi I have learned something new about Al Harram and the Kaaba. My Arabic language is not very advanced but both Mr and Mrs Bender speak very clear Arabic that I was able to follow their ideas perfectly. MaashaAllah. I highly recommend a visit to Mr Bender's home upon your umrah and definitely it will be an enriching, unique experience.