Makkah: Since the reign of the late King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud, and continuing through the reign of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the Kingdom has devoted great attention and care to the mosques at the holy sites, to enable them to accommodate the increasing numbers of pilgrims.
The Kingdom has spared no effort in constructing and developing the mosques at the holy sites. King Abdulaziz on Shawwal 16, 1362 Hijri, ordered the renovation of Namira Mosque in Arafat, the site of Muzdalifah, and Al-Khayf Mosque in Mina.
Namira Mosque in Arafat is the second largest mosque in the Makkah Region after the Grand Mosque. During King Abdulaziz’s era, it underwent its most significant expansion at a cost of SAR237 million. It covers an area of over 110,000 square meters, and there is a shaded area behind the mosque, of some 8,000 square meters. The mosque accommodates around 400,000 worshippers and features six minarets, each 60 meters high, three domes, and 10 main ent
rances with 64 gates. It also includes an external broadcast room equipped to transmit the sermon and the Dhuhor (noon) and Asr (afternoon) prayers on the Day of Arafat live, via satellites.
Al-Khayf Mosque has also received considerable attention and care from the Saudi kings throughout history. Located near the Minor Jamrah (pebble) site, its construction happened over several stages. With the expansion, the mosque covers an area of 23,500 square meters and accommodates 25,000 worshippers. It has four minarets and is equipped with all necessary amenities, including lighting, air conditioning, carpets, and a complex of restrooms containing 1,700 units.
Al-Mashar Al-Haram Mosque in Muzdalifah holds a special place in the hearts of pilgrims. The government expanded it in 1395 Hijri; it currently covers an area of 6,000 square meters and can accommodate 8,000 worshippers.
In recent days, the holy sites have witnessed preparations and arrangements to welcome pilgrims in this year’s Hajj season. Preparations i
ncluded installing tents and providing all necessary amenities to ensure that pilgrims can perform religious rituals with ease, and comfort.
Source: Saudi Press Agency