Mataf Capacity Upgraded to 107,000 Pilgrims per Hour

  • Publish date: Monday، 26 May 2025 Reading time: 1 min read

Saudi authorities expand capacity at Grand Mosque’s Mataf area and introduce new gates to ensure safe, smooth Tawaf for growing number of Hajj pilgrims.

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Saudi officials have rolled out major upgrades at the Grand Mosque in Makkah, particularly in the Mataf area where pilgrims perform the Tawaf (circling of the Kaaba).

The General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque confirmed that the Mataf can now handle up to 107,000 pilgrims per hour across various levels. These include the ground level, upper floors, and rooftop areas, ensuring smoother movement and less crowding.

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Total worshipper capacity hits 203,000

In total, the entire Mataf structure can now hold up to 203,000 worshippers at any given time. This increase is part of a broader plan to improve crowd control, enhance pilgrim safety, and provide better services throughout the Grand Mosque.

New gates and entrances introduced

To make it easier for pilgrims to access the Tawaf area, new gates and dedicated entrances have been opened. Several doors have also been assigned for services and emergency response, giving staff more control over crowd flow and safety.

Nearly 900,000 pilgrims already in Saudi Arabia

The expansion comes as the number of international arrivals continues to grow. As of Friday, 890,883 pilgrims have entered the Kingdom for Hajj 2025. According to the General Directorate of Passports:

  • 846,415 arrived by air

  • 41,646 entered via land borders

  • 2,822 came by sea

These developments aim to ensure a smoother and safer pilgrimage experience as millions prepare for one of the largest religious gatherings in the world.