The third Saudi expansion of the Grand Mosque, the largest in its history, represents a qualitative leap in the integrated services provided to pilgrims and embodies the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's commitment to the Two Holy Mosques. This massive project not only increases the mosque's size but also aims to create a comprehensive spiritual environment that blends tradition and modernity, providing the highest standards of comfort and safety for millions of worshippers, pilgrims, and visitors from around the world.
Historical background: A continuous journey of care for the Holy Mosque in Mecca
Care for the Grand Mosque in Mecca has been continuous throughout history. From the era of the Rightly Guided Caliphs through successive Islamic states, the Holy House has witnessed ongoing expansions and developments. With the establishment of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, this care took on a strategic and systematic dimension. The first Saudi expansion began during the reign of King Saud bin Abdulaziz and continued during the reigns of King Faisal and King Khalid. This was followed by the second expansion during the reign of King Fahd bin Abdulaziz, which added vast areas and modern services. The third Saudi expansion, inaugurated by King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz and being completed by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz, represents the culmination of this historical journey, responding to the steady increase in the number of pilgrims visiting the Grand Mosque.
Project details: Figures reflecting the magnitude of the achievement
The third expansion spans a total area of approximately 1,214,000 square meters and is equipped with a state-of-the-art service system that ensures smooth movement and the comfort of worshippers. This system includes a massive cooling system with a capacity of up to 90,000 tons, providing a comfortable atmosphere for worship year-round. To facilitate crowd movement, the building is equipped with 428 escalators, 28 elevators, and 80 large doors. The prayer hall floors are covered with more than 25,000 luxurious carpets, while 17,000 dispensers of blessed Zamzam water and 458 drinking fountains are distributed throughout the expansion. The facility also features 11,436 restrooms and ablution areas, and a sophisticated sound system with 1,300 speakers to ensure clear sound transmission to all floors and the 120 prayer halls.
Importance and strategic impact: A key pillar of Vision 2030
The significance of this project transcends mere engineering and construction, playing a pivotal role in achieving the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which aims to increase the capacity to accommodate pilgrims. Locally, the project enhances Makkah's infrastructure and supports economic sectors linked to Hajj and Umrah, such as hospitality, transportation, and services. Regionally and internationally, this expansion solidifies the Kingdom's position as the beating heart of the Islamic world and underscores its commitment to providing the best possible experience for pilgrims. Accommodating larger numbers of visitors in safe and convenient conditions reflects the ongoing dedication to serving Muslims and facilitating the performance of their rituals with devotion and tranquility, thus strengthening the bonds of faith among the peoples of the Islamic world.
In conclusion, the General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque affirmed that field efforts are being carried out around the clock to ensure the readiness of all facilities and services, and to raise the efficiency of operational performance, in order to achieve the highest levels of comfort and safety for visitors to the Grand Mosque, and to reflect the care of the wise leadership in harnessing all capabilities to serve the guests of God.
