The latest expansion of the Grand Mosque in Mecca has opened its doors to worshippers this Ramadan, blending architectural splendour with spiritual tranquillity as millions gather for prayer and Umrah during the holiest month of the Islamic calendar.
Marking one of the most ambitious development projects in the mosque’s history, the expansion is designed to accommodate over two million worshippers at once. Enhancements include vast exterior courtyards, widened entrances and exits, and advanced crowd control measures—all aimed at maintaining the sanctity and serenity of Islam’s most revered site.
The expansion boasts a fusion of traditional Islamic artistry and modern engineering. Towering arches, vaulted ceilings, intricately carved balconies, and gold-plated mashrabiyas define the structure’s elegance. Walls are adorned with verses from the Qur’an in classical Thuluth script, offering worshippers a visual and spiritual connection to the sacred text.
A defining feature of the expansion is its collection of 22 magnificent domes. Among them, 12 motorized glass domes, six fixed glass domes, and four permanent domes on the second-floor central halls serve both aesthetic and functional purposes. The largest motorized dome, towering above the ceremonial corridor, measures an impressive 36 meters in diameter, stands 25 meters high, and weighs approximately 800 tonnes. Its exterior gleams with vibrant mosaics, while its wooden interior is inlaid with intricate patterns and embedded gemstones. Designed for natural ventilation, the glass domes can be opened via a central control system when temperatures allow.
Strategically placed throughout the mosque, the fixed glass domes stand at an imposing 35.5 meters in height, while additional domes—each 16.6 meters in diameter—enhance the grandeur of the central halls with polished marble finishes, stained glass accents, and mosaic-covered roofs.
Behind this architectural masterpiece is a dedicated team of engineers, technicians, supervisors, and maintenance staff who work tirelessly to ensure a seamless and safe experience for all visitors. Their efforts extend from logistical coordination and technical oversight to maintaining cleanliness and guiding the massive flow of worshippers.
With this monumental expansion, Mecca continues to redefine the pilgrimage experience, providing an unparalleled blend of spiritual devotion and architectural magnificence.
