MAKKAH — The domes of the Ottoman-era hallway on eastern section of the Grand Mosque in Makkah have been removed as part of the ongoing expansion of the Mataf (circumambulation area). Demolition work has also begun on the northern side of the mosque. The expansion project is aimed at accommodating the increasing numbers of pilgrims from all over the world. All measures have been taken to ensure the speedy completion of the work. More workers and equipment have been deployed to complete the first phase of the expansion before the advent of the holy month of Ramadan. President of the Two Holy Mosques Affairs Sheikh Abdulrahman Al-Sudais said work was proceeding according to schedule and the expansion of the eastern section of the Mataf will be ready by Ramadan. He said remnants of previous expansions of the Grand Mosque would be preserved in an architectural museum, which was established in 1420AH. Studies are under way to expand the museum and to document all historical artifacts.
