Khalid Al-Himaidi Okaz/Saudi Gazette MAKKAH — The new mataaf (the circumambulation area) in the Grand Mosque will have a capacity to handle 105,000 pilgrims an hour, according to a senior official. Sultan Al-Qurashi, General Director of Projects at the General Presidency of Grand Mosque and Prophet's Mosque Affairs, said the expansion of the Grand Mosque project is in its third and final stage. “Once the project finishes, pilgrims and visitors to the Grand Mosque will be able to circumambulate around the Kaaba on three floors: the basement, ground floor and first floor. These three floors will be ready by Ramadan. We are also opening the roof which will be ready by the next Haj season,” said Al-Qurashi. So all the floors of the mataaf will be open for pilgrims in Haj, he said. “The project is going according to plan and our deadlines will be met on time. The expansion of the mataaf is one of the presidency's goals in expanding the Grand Mosque. Our comprehensive expansion plans include new restrooms and a transportation network,” said Al-Qurashi. He said there will be helipads near the mosque for medical emergencies so pilgrims can be transported to hospitals quickly especially during the peak seasons of Ramadan and Haj. “We prioritize pilgrims' safety and security at all times, and care about hygiene and sanitation for the comfort of pilgrims,” said Al-Qurashi.
