Saudi Arabia's Continuous Effort In Developing Mosques At Holy Sites Since King Abdulaziz

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, Saudi Arabia has focused on enhancing mosques at holy sites to accommodate increasing numbers of pilgrims. The Kingdom has invested significantly in constructing and developing these mosques.

On Shawwal 16, 1362 Hijri, King Abdulaziz 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.

The mosque covers an area of over 110,000 square meters, with a shaded area behind it spanning some 8,000 square meters. It accommodates around 400,000 worshippers and features six minarets, each 60 meters high, three domes, and 10 main entrances with 64 gates. Additionally, it 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 from Saudi kings throughout history. Located near the Minor Jamrah (pebble) site, its construction occurred over several stages. With its expansion, the mosque now covers an area of 23,500 square meters and accommodates 25,000 worshippers.

The mosque 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

Al-Mashar Al-Haram Mosque in Muzdalifah holds a special place for pilgrims. The government expanded it in 1395 Hijri; it currently covers an area of 6,000 square meters and can accommodate 8,000 worshippers.

Preparations for Hajj Season

In recent days, the holy sites have witnessed preparations to welcome pilgrims for this year's Hajj season. These preparations included installing tents and providing all necessary amenities to ensure that pilgrims can perform religious rituals with ease and comfort.

With inputs from SPA