Assalamualaikum.
For Day 5 of our time in Makkah, we’ve decided to observe a voluntary fast. Since we had decided not to join the group for the Taif visit, our schedule was left open for personal worship; it’s the perfect opportunity to embrace the quiet and dedicate the day to fasting and prayer at the Grand Mosque.
Our phone alarm buzzed at 4:00 am, signaling the start of our Suhoor. We gathered around the small dining table in our hotel room, laying out our burgers and fries alongside two steaming mugs of our favourite teh tarik. There is truly nothing like hot teh tarik at that hour to snap our sleepy eyes wide open!
I couldn't help but notice the size of the burgers—they were massive, what we jokingly called "Arab size." They just felt larger than the Burger King portions back in Malaysia, but we managed to finish every bite to fuel our day.
After our Fajr prayer, we headed straight for our nafl tawaf. Since we already have an active account, booking the Smart Golf Cart Service was a breeze using the hotel Wi-Fi. We actually secured our 7:00 am slot last night before going to sleep. The app is incredibly user-friendly; it allows you to view all available time slots, see the remaining seat capacity for each, and even check the estimated waiting time. These real-time features made it so easy to choose the most convenient slot for our schedule. It takes all the guesswork out of planning and ensures a smooth, convenient experience.
To get to the Smart Golf Cart Service, we entered via the Ajyad Bridge through Bab Ajyad. It’s the most convenient entrance if you're heading straight for the escalators leading to the carts.
The Ajyad Bridge leads pilgrims to the Ajyad Gate and 1st floor tawaf.
Unified Mobility Platform (منصة التنقل الموحدة) signage.
We headed toward the escalators leading to the Second Floor Mezzanine, where the electric carts are stationed. Upon arrival, the staff efficiently verified our passes and ushered us upward. The area was surprisingly quiet—perhaps because it was still early, or maybe because most pilgrims were away for breakfast.
These are the screenshots of our Boarding Passes, featuring the QR codes that were scanned at the entrance. I was registered as 'Passenger 1' and my wife as 'Passenger 2' for the booking.
Escalators leading to the Second Floor Mezzanine.
Reaching the second floor, we stepped off the escalator and onto the spacious mezzanine, where a dedicated track awaited the electric carts.
As we approached the boarding area, we saw rows of electric carts already lined up prepped and ready even at this early hour. It seemed there were quite a few bookings that morning. We also noticed other pilgrims already well into their tawaf, having started even earlier than us.
It was truly inspiring to watch the staff managing the electric cart service. They were professional, courteous, and showed a special kind of tenderness toward the elderly. With their kind smiles, they made every pilgrim feel truly at home; they certainly made us feel incredibly welcomed. Their genuine smiles and hospitality made the entire experience feel personal and warm and set a beautiful tone for our tawaf.
Just as we did yesterday, we refrained from taking photos during our Tawaf. We didn't want any distractions to pull us away from our Niyyah (intention) when we should have been focused on deep concentration and constant prayer.
These shots were strictly 'pre-and-post' Tawaf. We captured the boarding process and the path to the starting line, then put our phones away until we reached the disembarkation area. It was important to us to separate the act of documenting from the act of devotion.
This nafl tawaf held a special place in our hearts because we were fasting at the time. It made the quiet moments on the track even more meaningful. A truly blessed morning. Alhamdulillah.
The rooftop of Masjid al-Haram during the early morning provides an expansive vantage point over the sanctuary and the surrounding city of Makkah. At this hour, the sky transitions from the deep blue of night into shades of pink and lilac as the first light of dawn begins to appear over the horizon.
From this elevated position, the mosque's architecture is a central focus, particularly the massive white minarets that stand out against the morning sky. Below, the vast marble courtyard of the rooftop level reflects the soft morning light, while the lower levels hum with the movement of pilgrims performing Tawaf around the Kaaba.
The Makkah skyline is dominated by the Abraj Al-Bait (Clock Tower), which rises directly beside the mosque. In the early morning, the tower is often still illuminated, with its large green clock faces and golden spire clearly visible. This perspective from the roof allowed us to see the contrast between the historic center of the mosque and the modern, high-rise buildings that now characterize the city's growing skyline.
There is also a dedicated segregated open-air and carpeted area for pilgrims to perform their Salat al-Tawaf (Prayer of Tawaf) after completing the seven circuits of Tawaf. Pilgrims will disembark the electric cart and perform their prayers here while the driver waits. Once the prayer completed, pilgrims will reboard the cart and taken to the cart track for the sa'i. In our case to the exit point.
Usually, this prayer space is strictly reserved for pilgrims performing both the Umrah Tawaf and Sa'i. Those performing only a nafl (voluntary) tawaf like us are typically directed to the Mataf area on Level 1 for the Sunnah prayers. However, we were incredibly fortunate; thanks to the kindness of our driver, he allowed us to perform our prayers right here after our second voluntary Tawaf, saving us a trip down to the Level 1 Mataf. It was a small gesture that meant a lot to us.
A cute little incident happened as I was preparing for my Salat al-Tawaf. A staff member in the prayer section walked over and offered me a cup of cool Zamzam water. Feeling a bit parched, I almost reached for it—but I caught myself just in time! I politely declined with a "thank you," remembering I was fasting.
The staff member looked puzzled, and since I couldn’t speak Arabic, I had to get creative with hand signals. I mimicked "drinking" and made a big "X" with my arms to show "no drinking." Then, I said the word "Maghrib" and followed by the drinking motion to mean can drink at Maghrib. His puzzled expression instantly vanished into a warm smile—he understood exactly what I meant! 😊
While waiting for my wife to finish her Salat al-Tawaf and for our driver to return, I took the opportunity to capture a few more photos. Being up here is a rare privilege, as this area is reserved exclusively for those using the Smart Golf Cart Service.
The views were breathtaking—the Clock Tower stood tall and commanding against the sky. Surrounded by skyscraper hotels and the elegant minarets of the Masjidil Haram, the skyline was a stunning blend of the old and the new, the sacred and the modern.
As I stood by the trackside soaking in the magnificent views, I watched a few electric carts glide past, each carrying only two to four passengers. In the cool morning air, the track was remarkably quiet—no long queues, no wait times, and very little traffic. Performing our nafl tawaf under such peaceful conditions felt like an immense blessing. I can only imagine how different the energy must be during the peak of Ramadan or the Hajj season.
The Smart Golf Cart Service at Masjidil Haram was launched in March 2024, featuring around 50 electric vehicles, helps elderly and disabled pilgrims perform tawaf (circumambulation) on the designated rooftop floor.
Advantages and Benefits of Electric Carts
🔹Zero Direct Emissions: Electric carts produce no harmful tailpipe emissions inside the Grand Mosque, ensuring a cleaner, safer, and healthier environment for worshippers.
🔹Noise Reduction: Operating silently, they maintain the sanctity and tranquility of the Haram, reducing noise pollution compared to combustion engines.
🔹Air Quality Preservation: By utilizing electric battery power, these vehicles prevent air pollution within the enclosed or semi-enclosed spaces of the mosque, improving air quality.
🔹Cleanliness & No Spillage: Unlike fuel-powered alternatives, electric vehicles eliminate the risk of oil or fuel leaks, protecting the clean, sacred surfaces of the Haram.
🔹Alignment with Sustainability (Vision 2030): The initiative aligns with Saudi Vision 2030 goals to create a green, eco-friendly environment, promoting sustainable tourism and reducing the overall carbon footprint of the mosque.
Evolution of the Service
🔹Expansion: The fleet grew from an initial 50 vehicles to 251 by June 2024 and was doubled again to 400 carts by Ramadan 2025 to meet high demand.
🔹Digital Shift: Starting in March 2025 (20 Ramadan 1446), the General Authority transitioned from manual bookings to mandatory electronic reservations through the Unified Transport Platform (Tanaqol app).
🔹Current Pricing (2026): Recent reports indicate a "full trip" rate of approximately 300 SAR, with a 50% discount for seniors over 65 and free service for children under six and individuals with disabilities.
A few minutes later, our driver returned and whisked us away toward the disembarkation point.
We thanked the driver once more for his kindness in letting us pray at the designated area; it’s a gesture we’ll remember for a long time. Before we set off, I asked if I could sit in the front passenger seat. With a warm smile, he gestured for me to hop in. I was eager to capture a few more photos, this time from a fresh perspective as we moved along the track.
Drivers of the Smart Golf Cart Service at Masjidil Haram must be trained operators, often requiring at least 5 years of experience with light vehicles or golf carts. They must possess a valid, transferable Iqama, maintain a professional, courteous attitude toward pilgrims, and be physically fit to operate in high-density environments.
📘Key Qualifications and Requirements:
🔹Experience: A minimum of 5 years of driving experience (preferably in golf cart or light vehicle operation) is typically required.
🔹Documentation: A valid and transferable Iqama (Saudi residence permit) is mandatory.
🔹Safety Knowledge: Strong knowledge of safety standards, traffic rules, and operating procedures is required.
🔹Physical Fitness: Ability to work long shifts and manage high-density, high-stress environments.
🔹Professionalism: A customer-oriented attitude is necessary to serve pilgrims.
🔹Licensing: While not always explicit for this specific job, a valid Saudi driver's license is required for operating any motorized vehicle
🔹This electric vehicle simple dashboard features a steering wheel, an instrument cluster (speedometer/battery indicator), various control switches (lights, horn), and a red emergency stop button.
🔹There was also a string of prayer beads hangs near the steering column.
Captured from the front seat of the electric cart, I feel this photo perfectly frames the spiritual and architectural grandeur of a Makkah morning. The sky transitions beautifully from a soft blue to a golden sunrise glow, highlighting a skyline where the modern Makkah Royal Clock Tower stands in harmony with the timeless minarets of the Holy Mosque. In the foreground, the sweeping lines of the spacious cart track lead the eye past rows of waiting vehicles, while a glimpse of the carpeted praying section below adds a deeply human element of devotion. Together, these layers capture a rare, serene perspective of the sacred and the modern meeting in one frame.
I was mesmerized by this amazing view. Our cart passed by at the perfect time for me to capture this skyline—one of those precious moments when the sun was about to peek and envelop the City of Makkah in a stunning blend of orange and yellow light of varying intensity. To see Allah SWT’s flawless creation in such perfection was truly overwhelming. Honestly, this view made me feel quite emotional; it was a reminder of the beauty and peace that only a place like this can offer.
At the start of 2026, the General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Grand Mosque has deployed more than 400 electric golf carts to assist pilgrims.
🔹These vehicles are part of a broader mobility fleet that also includes approximately 8,700 electric scooters and thousands of manual wheelchairs.
🔹A dedicated team of over 3,000 Saudi personnel and 168 specialized technicians supervise operations and maintenance of the electric fleet.
Fleet and Distribution
🔹Total Capacity: Over 400 specialized golf carts are currently in service as of early 2026.
🔹Vehicle Types:
- Large Golf Carts: Shared vehicles seating up to 10 passengers per trip.
- Electric Coaches: Smaller fiberglass carts designed for up to 7 passengers, typically operated by a trained driver.
- Electric Scooters: Single and double-seater self-drive units primarily used for Tawaf and Sa'i.
Depots and Pickup Points
While there is no single public "depot," the carts are strategically stationed at major entrances and on upper levels to manage crowd flow. Key access points include:
🔹Major Entrances: King Abdulaziz Gate (Gate 1), Bab Al-Umrah (Gate 63), and Ajyad Gate (Gate 5).
🔹Specific Access: Vehicles are often accessed via the Ajyad Bridge, Al-Shubaika Bridge, and the Al-Arqam Staircase.
🔹Operational Levels: Most golf cart services for Tawaf are operated on the rooftop or mezzanine levels to separate vehicular movement from the dense foot traffic on the ground floor.
As we got off, we thanked our driver again for his help during the Tawaf and for being so kind and professional.
I noticed that the staff performing their duties on this floor wore distinct uniforms, reflecting the various layers of support and specialized services provided. This variety signifies the comprehensive care coordinated by the General Authority, whose vast responsibility spans the safety, maintenance, and administration of both Masjid al-Haram in Makkah and Al-Masjid an-Nabawi in Madinah.
Leaving the electric golf cart area, we felt a profound sense of gratitude and relief. Alhamdulillah, despite my foot pain and my wife's back pain, the Smart Golf Cart Service allowed us to complete our Nafl Tawaf while fasting without further injury. This support was a true blessing, especially as we prepare for our remaining two days in Makkah and five days in Madinah.
We exited Masjidil Haram via Bab al-Salam.
Walking back to our hotel via the Safa Bridge, we couldn't resist taking a few more photos. This vantage point offers a unique perspective, beautifully framing the Grand Mosque against the modern backdrop of the nearby buildings.
This massive building is a private Royal Palace/Imperial Palace. The royal palace currently stands on top of the former Mount Abu Qubais (Jabal Abu Qubays) in Mecca. This historic mountain, located on the eastern side of the Masjid al-Haram, was replaced with this imperial palace structure.
Walking along the Safa Bridge, flanked by towering skyscrapers, the wide pathway suddenly felt narrow. I felt completely overwhelmed and dwarfed by the massive scale of everything around me.
At this massive outdoor courtyard, carpets were laid out for the pilgrims who wish to perform their prayer in the open air especially at night under the stars when it is cooler.
To the left is the Mas'aa, the path between the hills of Safa and Marwah, where pilgrims perform the sa'i ritual during Hajj and Umrah.
Zooming-in, we could see one of the main WC.
WCs (toilets) and ablution (wudu) facilities are strategically located throughout Masjid al-Haram to ensure comfort, with major facilities placed in the second expansion, roof, basements, and near key areas like Masa'a (Safa and Marwa), the Clock Tower, and Mataf (area around the Kaaba). These, along with QR codes for navigation, facilitate easy access.
The yellow building is Makkah Al Mukarramah Library.
The Makkah Al Mukarramah Library (Maktabat Makkah al-Mukarramah) is a historic institution located near the Masjid al-Haram, believed to mark the exact site of the birth of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in 570 CE. Known historically as Bayt al-Mawlid (House of the Birth), the site was converted into a public library in the 20th century under Saudi rule to serve as a beacon of knowledge, housing a vast collection of rare manuscripts.
A magnificent view of the Clock Tower seen from Safa Bridge.
The Masjidil Haram outdoor cleaning crew operates 24/7, with thousands of staff, specialized electric cars, and water jets, ensuring the massive 1.4 million square foot area remains spotless, sanitized, and fragrant for millions of pilgrims, cleaning the entire, sprawling complex multiple times daily.
At 7:45 am, the morning sun began to illuminate the skyscrapers, leaving them bathed in a soft, golden glow.
Looking down from the Safa Bridge, we caught a glimpse of the ongoing expansion at Masjidil Haram. A large crew of workers by the dozens in high-visibility vests was busy moving materials and navigating equipment through one of the lower entrances, a reminder of the constant effort to maintain and grow this sacred space.
This showcases the impressive logistics behind the mosque's continuous development. Even early in the day (it was 7:46 am), the courtyard was a hive of activity with construction teams working tirelessly on the latest phase of the mosque's expansion.
Finding the Safa Bridge relatively quiet under the brilliant blue morning sun, we stopped for a quick photo session. The vantage point offered a stunning panoramic background, featuring the Grand Mosque alongside the Royal Palace and the towering skyline of the Clock Tower and Makkah Tower complex.
Earlier we entered Masjidil Haram through this gate, the Bab Ajyad, to perform our nafl tawaf using the Smart Golf Cart Service. Now, while on our way back to our hotel room via Safa Bridge, we found the entrance was temporarily closed and the area neatly cordoned off with white plastic barricades to manage the pedestrian flow due to ongoing upkeep of the Grand Mosque.
Walking down the Ajyad Bridge.
I got a total buzz watching the cleaning team from Ajyad Bridge. Their efficiency is next-level—they move so fast while staying completely mindful of the pilgrims. Between their cool cleaning tech and the massive area they have to cover, I’m constantly impressed by what they pull off.
Each team member knows their role perfectly. Watching them move in complete synchronicity was like seeing a choreographed performance—they glided in unison, looking less like they were walking and more like they were skating, not on ice but across marble floor. I would have loved a drone’s-eye view to capture the full scale of their incredible coordination and truly appreciate the artistry of their collective rhythm. That’s the only way to truly do justice to that level of teamwork.
It’s also heartwarming to witness how the crowd instinctively parts to make way for the crew. Whether the pilgrims cooperate out of mutual respect for the noble work of keeping the Mosque clean or simply for their own safety, the result is the same: a beautiful, unspoken harmony between the workers and the faithful.
The cleaning operation at Masjid al-Haram is a choreographed, high-speed process designed to maintain extreme hygiene standards without halting the flow of millions of pilgrims. The method relies on "Precision Sectioning," where the two teams we noticed work in a synchronized "leapfrog" formation.
📘The Cordoning Team (The Safety Vanguard)
Before any machine moves, this team of workers manually creates a mobile perimeter.
🔹The "Human Chain" and Barrier Method: Using a combination of physical plastic barriers and often a synchronized line of personnel, they quickly isolate a specific section of the marble floor.
🔹Pilgrim Diversion: Their primary role is to gently guide pilgrims away from the active cleaning zone. This prevents slips on wet marble and ensures the heavy machinery can move at its top operational speed without risk of collision.
🔹Rapid Deployment: As soon as a section is dried, this team instantly breaks the cordon and shifts to the next segment, effectively "opening" the clean path for worshippers behind them.
📘The Mechanical Team (The Heavy Scrubbers)
Once the area is secured, the fleet of specialized vehicles moves in.
🔹Scrubbing and Drying: The green ride-on machines (typically IPC CT series or similar industrial scrubbers) perform a three-in-one action: they dispense a cleaning solution, scrub the floor with high-pressure brushes, and immediately vacuum up the dirty water.
🔹Section Clearing: By moving in a staggered or parallel formation, a line of 3–5 vehicles can clear a massive swath of the courtyard in a single pass. This is how they achieve the feat of cleaning the entire Mataf (the area around the Kaaba) in just 30 minutes.
🔹Eco-Friendly Operations: These vehicles are 100% electric, ensuring there are no exhaust fumes in the crowded sacred space.
📘The Operational Cycle
🔹Frequency: This entire "cordon-scrub-release" cycle happens 10 times every day.
🔹Speed: Because the two teams work in a relay—the cordoning team always staying exactly one "move" ahead of the vehicles—the mosque never feels "closed," only temporarily diverted.
In addition to the high-speed floor scrubbing teams, the courtyard of Masjid al-Haram utilizes specialized 100% electric vacuum units like the Glutton pictured to manage litter and finer debris in high-traffic areas.
📘The Role of Vacuum Units in the Courtyard
While the ride-on scrubbers focus on the white marble floor's hygiene and shine, these smaller, highly maneuverable vacuum units serve a distinct purpose in the overall cleaning strategy:
🔹Precision Debris Removal: These "Glutton" machines are designed to suck up all types of waste that can pass through their suction tubes, including paper, cardboard, plastic bottles, and cigarette butts.
🔹Eco-Friendly & Quiet Operation: Being fully electric and producing low noise (typically under 50 dba), they can operate continuously—up to 10 hours—without disturbing pilgrims in prayer or during their rituals.
🔹High-Traffic Maneuverability: Unlike the larger floor scrubbers that require cordoning off large sections, these units are self-propelled and easily handled by a single operator, allowing them to navigate safely through dense crowds of worshippers.
🔹Continuous Maintenance: These units are often seen working in tandem with manual sweepers to ensure that even the smallest pieces of litter are removed instantly, maintaining the mosque's "spotless" reputation between major scrubbing cycles.
In contrast to the high-speed vehicle teams, this manual "Rapid Response" method is the mosque’s first line of defense for maintaining immediate, localized cleanliness.
📘The Mobile Cleaning Station
The worker in the image is operating a Rubbermaid HYGEN™ High-Capacity Cleaning Cart, which acts as a self-contained, mobile hub. These carts are specifically chosen for their:
🔹Compact Footprint: They are slim enough to navigate through dense crowds of pilgrims without causing a bottleneck.
🔹Integrated Tooling: Notice the cart is "pre-loaded" with a long-handled dry mop, a wet mop in a bucket, and a large yellow waste collection bag. This allows a single worker to switch from sweeping dust to mopping a spill in seconds.
🔹Discreet Design: The black, tiered compartments keep cleaning chemicals and dirty supplies hidden from view, maintaining the aesthetic dignity of the sacred space.
📘Operational Role: "The Constant Sweep"
While the vehicles clean the entire courtyard in massive shifts, these manual teams perform Real-Time Spot Cleaning:
🔹Targeting High-Traffic Zones: These workers are stationed near entrances, water stations, and walkways to the WCs (as seen by the green "WC" sign in the background).
🔹Immediate Spill Response: If a pilgrim spills water or food, these mobile stations can be on-site immediately to prevent a slipping hazard before the cordoning team even arrives.
🔹Non-Disruptive Flow: Unlike the machines, these workers do not require an area to be cordoned off. They work within the crowd, cleaning around pilgrims' feet with a level of agility that vehicles cannot match.
📘The Human Element
🔹The worker’s uniform—a tan and grey tactical-style jumpsuit with high-visibility strips—identifies them as part of the 4,000-strong cleaning force. They are trained to perform their duties with a "silent service" philosophy, ensuring the environment remains pristine for worship while remaining as unobtrusive as possible.
In such a vast and crowded environment, the coordination of the 4,000 cleaning staff is managed through a sophisticated blend of high-tech surveillance and ground-level human observation.
The cleaning operations rely on three primary notification layers to identify spills or rubbish:
1. The Central Command Center (High-Tech Monitoring)
A newly activated Central Engineering Command Center acts as the "brain" of the mosque.
🔹AI-Powered Surveillance: Over 15,000 high-definition cameras equipped with artificial intelligence monitor the mosque 24/7. These cameras can zoom in with incredible detail—enough to identify a single discarded bottle or a small water spill from a significant distance.
🔹Real-Time Data: Operators in the command center track crowd flow and environmental conditions, dispatching the nearest mobile cleaning unit via radio as soon as an issue is spotted on screen.
2. Digital Reporting Services (The Pilgrim’s Voice)
The Saudi authorities have integrated reporting into the digital experience for pilgrims:
🔹"Rased" Reporting Service: Accessible through apps like Nusuk, this service allows worshippers to report hygiene issues or spills instantly. When a report is submitted, it is geotagged, allowing supervisors to pinpoint the exact location on a 3D map of the mosque and send a response team.
3. Human Supervisors and Field Workers (The Ground Network)
Despite the advanced tech, the human element remains the most active layer:
🔹Dedicated Observers: Around 200 Saudi supervisors and observers are strategically stationed throughout the various levels and sectors. Their sole job is to monitor their assigned zone and coordinate the workers in the field.
🔹RFID Tracking: Field workers often wear RFID-enabled badges, which allow the command center to see their real-time location. If a spill occurs near King Fahd Gate, for example, the system identifies the three closest workers and notifies them immediately.
🔹Sector Assignments: The mosque is divided into permanent cleaning "sectors." Each worker or team is responsible for a specific, manageable area, ensuring that no part of the 1 million square meter facility is left unmonitored.
This multi-layered system is what allows a spill in a crowd of millions to be addressed in minutes, maintaining the mosque's standard of cleaning the entire facility up to 10 times per day.
The date was February 5, 2026. I saw queues of construction workers forming at the Al Rajhi Bank just outside the Masjidil Haram. Seeing them all gathered there at once, I couldn't help but wonder if it was salary day for the teams building around the Holy Mosque.
While the 5th of the month is not the official national payday in Saudi Arabia, it is highly likely we saw a "salary rush."
📘Why the 5th was likely a Payday
In Saudi Arabia, there are two common payroll cycles that would explain the crowds on February 5, 2026:
🔹Contractual "7th Day" Deadline: While most large companies pay on the 27th of the Gregorian month, Saudi labor regulations allow employers until the 7th of the following month to disburse salaries. Many construction firms wait until this final window (the 1st through the 7th) to pay their workers.
🔹The "Domestic" and Support Worker Cycle: Starting January 1, 2026, a new law mandated that all support and domestic worker salaries must be paid electronically through platforms like Musaned. Since this was a relatively new requirement in February 2026, many workers may have been lining up at Al Rajhi—one of the primary approved banks for these transfers—to set up their digital wallets or withdraw their first fully electronic payments.
🔹Remittance Rush: Most migrant construction workers send a significant portion of their earnings home immediately. Even if they were paid on the 27th of January, many wait until their first day off (often a Friday or a weekend) to visit the bank. February 5, 2026, fell on a Thursday, which is the start of the weekend for many, leading to a concentrated "remittance rush" at branches near the Haram.
📘Why Al Rajhi Bank?
The Al Rajhi Bank branch near the Masjid al-Haram is one of the busiest in the world because it is a primary partner for the Wage Protection System (WPS). This system ensures that workers are paid exactly what is in their contracts, and since Al Rajhi has the largest network of ATMs and remittance centers (Tahweel Al Rajhi), it is the default choice for the mosque’s vast workforce.
KFC is exceptionally popular in that area, primarily because of its prime location directly facing the Grand Mosque.
The branch on the ground floor of the Makkah Towers (Millennium Hotel Tower) is often described as one of the busiest KFCs in the world. Its popularity stems from being a "familiar bet" for international pilgrims from the UK, Malaysia, and beyond who want a quick, recognizable meal after performing rituals.
📘Key Characteristics of the Makkah Towers KFC
🔹Crowd Dynamics: It is "as busy as it gets," especially immediately following prayer times.
🔹Limited Menu: To handle the extreme volume of customers, this specific branch often operates with a highly limited menu—sometimes as few as three core items—to ensure the fastest possible service.
🔹Pricing: Due to its premium location, prices here are often higher than in other Saudi Arabian branches or even standard international locations.
🔹Ordering Windows: There is a well-known outdoor ordering window on the sidewalk, but there is also a less-crowded window inside the building that can be faster.
We then paused for a quick photo at a spot offering the most expansive view of Masjidil Haram that we know of.
Having started our nafl tawaf early at 7:00 am and returning to the hotel by 8:07 am, we were able to enjoy a long rest. This was a huge help in regaining our energy, especially since we were fasting.
Refreshed and ready, we returned to the courtyard at 11:22 am, joining the flow of pilgrims toward the Grand Mosque for the Zuhr prayer.
Our favorite praying sections were uncharacteristically quiet that afternoon. We soon realized we had arrived much earlier than expected, as the courtyards were unusually easy to navigate. Since we saved so much time on the walk, we decided to make the most of it by doubling our acts of worship compared to the day before.
Since the usually packed praying areas were practically empty, I decided to do some exploring savoring the chance to see parts of the mosque I'd missed on busier days before settling into my usual spot. Being able to see the mosque in both states—as a silent, peaceful haven and then as a vibrant center of worship—gave me a whole new perspective on its beauty.
Tracing the patterns of the marble in the quiet before the storm.
The luxury of space and the breath of tranquility.
📘The Carpet as a Silent Witness
In Islamic tradition, the very ground where you prostrate is believed to have a spiritual memory.
🔹Eternal Testimony: There is a profound belief that the "piece of earth on which a servant prostrates will bear witness for him on the Day of Judgment".
- A key narration in Musnad Ahmad (Hadith 23378).
🔹Marks in Eternity: Reflection on it being a "witness of the act of worship" aligns with the idea that every sajdah (prostration) leaves a mark not just on the fabric, but in eternity.
After Zuhr, we returned to our hotel room. Since we were fasting, there was no rush for lunch, and we didn't need to worry about buying iftar food; our plan was to simply bring a few dates and break our fast at the mosque. We'll be having a full meal later in the evening.
Gate 84 is one of the primary entry points used by pilgrims at Masjid al-Haram, specifically known for providing easy access to the mosque's upper levels and rooftop.
📘Key Features of Gate 84
🔹Rooftop & Upper Floor Access: Gate 84 is a popular choice for pilgrims because it features escalators that lead directly to the first floor and the rooftop.
🔹Access for Non-Muhrim: For men not wearing Ihram (and thus unable to enter the ground floor Mataf area), Gate 84 is a recommended entrance to reach the upper floors where they can still perform Tawaf or view the Kaaba.
🔹Location: It is situated on the western side of the mosque complex, located near other major gates such as Gate 79 (King Fahad Gate).
🔹Ablution & Refreshment: Pilgrims using this gate to reach the roof have access to nearby ablution (wudu) areas and Zamzam water stations once they reach the upper levels.
📘Practical Tips for Using Gate 84
🔹Avoiding Crowds: Because it has major escalators, it can become very crowded immediately after prayers. Staying seated for 10–20 minutes after Salah can help you avoid the initial rush.
🔹Identifying the Gate: In the vast complex of over 200 gates, Gate 84 is often easier to find by looking for the King Fahad expansion area.
🔹View of the Kaaba: While it provides access to the roof, some pilgrims note that the view of the Kaaba from the roof near this gate may be partially obstructed depending on current construction or the specific section you enter.
There was a moment at the Giordano outlet where I considered buying a new ihram, but my heart wasn't in it. My old one dates back two decades to my 2006 Hajj. It has been wrapped around me for previous six Umrahs, and it still feels perfect. Sharing this feels a bit personal, but after my last Umrah, I found myself holding the cloth close and feeling incredibly moved. We’ve shared a long spiritual path together, and I'm not ready to let that go.
We made our way out at 5:06 pm, bound for the Grand Mosque. With Maghrib approaching, we made sure to have our dates ready in our bag, looking forward to breaking our fast within the sacred walls.
We intentionally chose a Thursday for our voluntary fast. Nafl (voluntary) fasting on Mondays and Thursdays is a highly recommended Sunnah, as Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) frequently observed it, stating that human deeds are presented to Allah on these days. It serves to earn Allah’s mercy, foster self-discipline, and provides spiritual, emotional, and physical health benefits.
Fasting on Mondays and Thursdays is supported by several authentic narrations (hadiths) that highlight their spiritual significance. Below are the specific sources for each point:
1. Presentation of Deeds
The Hadith: The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said, "Deeds are presented [to Allah] on Mondays and Thursdays, and I love that my deeds be presented while I am fasting."
Primary Sources: Jami` at-Tirmidhi (747), Sunan an-Nasa'i (2358) and Sunan Abi Dawud (2436)
2. Day of Birth and Revelation
The Hadith: When asked about fasting on Mondays, the Prophet ﷺ replied, "That is the day on which I was born and the day on which I received revelation [or the Mission began]."
Primary Sources: Sahih Muslim (1162). Also recorded in Musnad Ahmad
3. Divine Forgiveness
The Hadith: The Prophet ﷺ stated that the gates of Paradise are opened every Monday and Thursday, and every servant who does not associate partners with Allah is forgiven, except for two people who have a grudge against one another. It is said of them, "Delay these two until they are reconciled."
Primary Sources: Sahih Muslim (2565), Sunan Ibn Majah (1740) and Muwatta Malik
About half hour before the call of Maghrib Adhan, staff and volunteers from the General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque (formerly the General Presidency) started spreading out long plastic sheets known as Sofra (Arabic for "dining cloth" or "spread").
The Sofra tradition at Masjidil Haram involves laying out long, communal dining mats (sofras) on the mosque floors, where worshippers gather to break their fast together with dates, Zamzam water, and simple food. This ritual promotes unity, equality, and brotherhood among pilgrims and locals.
This tradition is not just about eating, but about sharing in a spiritual experience within the holiest site in Islam, often followed by evening prayers (Maghrib) in congregation.
Key aspects of this tradition include:
🔹The Setup: Long plastic or cloth runners are rolled out across the mosque’s floors and courtyards shortly before sunset. The long Sofras are set up for anyone to join fostering a spirit of community and breaking down social barriers.
🔹The Menu: To ensure cleanliness and speed, the "Sofra" typically consists of simple, nourishing items:
- Dates: Usually served in odd numbers (following the Sunnah).
- Zamzam Water: The primary drink for breaking the fast.
- Arabic Coffee (Gahwa) or fruit juice: Often served alongside dates.
- Yogurt and Bread: Provided in some designated areas or by specific charitable groups.
🔹Atmosphere: It is characterized by a profound sense of brotherhood with people sharing their food with strangers creating an atmosphere of generosity and in peace.
🔹Community & Service: The meals are largely provided by the Saudi government and private charitable organizations through official permits. Thousands of volunteers and mosque staff coordinate the distribution and rapid cleanup.
🔹Efficiency: Within minutes of the Maghrib (sunset) prayer call, the "Sofra" is cleared away entirely by workers and volunteers to make space for the congregational prayer. The entire process of sitting, eating, and clearing the Sofras is completed in about 12–15 minutes to prepare for the Maghrib prayer. The areas where Iftar is served must be cleaned immediately after each meal, with organized, rapid removal of wrappers, bottles, and uneaten food.
🔹Inclusivity: The tradition emphasizes equality, as wealthy pilgrims, workers, and the needy all sit side-by-side on the same floor to share the same meal.
A volunteer distributing Iftar packs to the gathered pilgrims.
🔹Thousands of volunteers who distribute the meals are subject to health protocols to ensure they handle the food safely.
🔹Only approved, licensed charitable organizations and individuals are allowed to distribute Iftar meals. These providers must have a registered operational base in Makkah or Madinah and a clean health violation record.
🔹The General Authority, alongside other government agencies, carries out inspections of the food and distribution methods to ensure compliance with health standards.
The iftar packs distributed inside the Grand Mosque generally focus on the essentials:
🔹Pitted Dates: The primary item used to follow the Sunnah.
🔹Zamzam Water: Provided in sterilized sealed bottles or through 18,000+ water coolers and fountains.
🔹Simple Snacks: Some packs include a small cake, pastry, or juice.
Designated iftar locations are set up in the mosque and its courtyards. For a more "fuller" meal experience, pilgrims often find larger communal spreads in the outer courtyards, where dates, laban (yogurt), and bread are shared on long plastic sheets.
Looking around, I noticed another guy snapping a photo of his Iftar pack and realized I wasn't the only one—haha! It was likely his first time receiving one, too. Of all the incredible things I’ve seen and experienced during this Umrah, this simple gift too moved me; I found myself whispering ‘Alhamdulillah’. I never imagined a pre-packed meal could be such a highlight, but I was deeply touched by the thought that, by simply accepting it, I was helping donors complete their beautiful act of charity.
I struck up an interesting conversation with Bonhar, who was sitting next to me in the prayer row. A student from Mindanao, Philippines, he is currently in his fourth year of Islamic Studies in Jordan and was visiting Makkah for Umrah with a group of 35 other students. He’s looking forward to finishing his final year and returning home to teach.
He admitted to feeling homesick and shared that he loves to cook, especially his favorite Filipino dish, chicken adobo. I told him I’d actually tried it during a vacation to the Philippines and loved it. When he apologized for his English, I apologized for my complete lack of Arabic, so we ended up laughing and using Google Translate to keep the conversation going 😊.
The women's prayer sections at Masjidil Haram via Gate 84 (located in the King Fahd Expansion) generally offer a calmer and more organized atmosphere compared to the intense crowding of the ground-level Mataf area. This section is particularly valued for its modern facilities, air-conditioning, and slightly removed location from the main circumambulation flow.
📘Atmosphere & Environment
🔹Vibe: Known for being peaceful and beautiful, the King Fahd Expansion area (where Gate 84 is situated) often feels less congested than the main mosque core.
🔹Climate: These indoor areas are fully air-conditioned, providing a significant reprieve from Makkah’s heat.
🔹Spiritual Focus: The environment is designed for deep concentration, with designated shelves for Quran copies (Mus'haf) and a sense of "unity of purpose" among worshippers.
🔹Visibility: While carpeted areas for women on these levels may not always have a direct, unobstructed view of the Kaaba, some spots near the Zamzam troughs or specific balconies allow for a beautiful view.
📘Crowd Dynamics at Prayer Times
🔹Pre-Prayer Rush: Guards typically begin directing worshippers into specific rows and sections approximately 10–15 minutes before the Adhan. It is highly recommended to arrive at least 30–60 minutes early for Fardh prayers to secure a spot inside the air-conditioned halls.
🔹Post-Prayer Flow: Immediately after the final Taslim, the area near escalators and exits becomes extremely congested. Experienced pilgrims often stay seated for 10–20 minutes to let the first wave of crowds clear.
🔹Segregation: Staff are active in ensuring men do not enter designated female zones, which many women find "comforting and very much appreciated".
📘Access via Gate 84
🔹Entry Points: Gate 84 is a major entrance that can take you directly toward the Mataaf or up to higher levels via escalators.
🔹Level 1 Transition: From this gate, you can easily access the first-floor prayer halls. If you find Level 1 full, guards may direct you further up to the Rooftop, which often opens for Fajr, Maghrib, and Isha and offers stunning views.
📘Practical Tips for Women
🔹Footwear: Wear extra socks as many scholars consider them part of the required covering (Awrah) for prayer.
🔹Patience: If a specific entrance is blocked, follow the signs or instructions from the Haram guards; they may redirect you to nearby gates like 79 or 94 depending on the current capacity.
🔹Facilities: Zamzam water stations and Quran shelves are readily available throughout the Level 1 halls.
After breaking our fast simply with dates and water at the Grand Mosque, we headed to Al Fayhaa Restaurant in the Makkah Towers Hotel for a full meal. Being able to fast on a Thursday in the heart of Makkah, completing our nafl tawaf while fasting, and performing daily prayers in holy land left us with a profound sense of spiritual accomplishment. We ended the day humbled by the journey, deeply grateful for the strength to worship, and filled with a joy that only Allah SWT can provide.
Fasted. Circled the Kaaba. Prayed the Five. Broke bread in the best of places. Our hearts are as full as our plates tonight. A day of physical hunger, but total spiritual fullness. There is no Iftar like an Iftar in Makkah.
To be continued.
Till the next coming entry, inshaAllah. Meanwhile do take care.
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Saya amat tertarikmelihat gambar perkongsian..subahanallah..
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