Masjid Al Haram Expansion Doubles Capacity During Hajj

The third expansion project of Masjid Al Haram is by far the biggest and most ambitious in the mosque’s history.

The project began in 2011 under former King Abdullah and was later accelerated under King Salman.

Saudi authorities say the total area of the mosque now exceeds 1.2 million square metres — enough space to accommodate more than 2.5 million worshippers at any given time.

The expansion was designed to ease congestion during peak seasons, especially Hajj and Ramadan, when millions of Muslims from around the world gather in Mecca.

Beyond the massive structures and new prayer areas, the project also includes upgraded security systems, improved crowd management, advanced safety equipment and the integration of modern technologies including artificial intelligence.

Officials say the aim is to improve comfort, accessibility and safety for pilgrims visiting Islam’s holiest site.

Al Jazeera's Ahmed Idris, reports from Mecca, Saudi Arabia.

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