Courtyards of the Grand Mosque

The Courtyards of the Grand Mosque are the courtyards surrounding the Grand Mosque from all sides, separating it from hotels and services in the central area of Makkah al-Mukarramah. They are used for prayer and to break the fast for those who are fasting. During times of overcrowding, such as the month of Ramadan, they provide all of the services available in the Grand Mosque, such as mattresses, Zamzam water, and the Quran.

The courtyards of the Grand Mosque feature secure deposit boxes that operate using an electronic mechanism relying on security technology. Additionally, there are fans equipped with misting systems to lower the temperature, along with water mist columns positioned around the outer perimeter of the Grand Mosque through a comprehensive infrastructure involving pumps, extensions, and tanks to provide cooling within the Grand Mosque's courtyards.

Courtyards of the Grand Mosque have an administration within the General Presidency for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques. It also has permanent and temporary staff for Hajj and Umrah seasons. The courtyards of the Grand Mosque are arranged into six distinct areas. The first pertains to the northern courtyards of the Third Saudi Expansion. The second spans Shabika Square alongside Dar al-Tawheed Hotel, located west of the Grand Mosque. The third encompasses the region extending from Dar al-Tawheed to King Fahd Gate in the Second Saudi Expansion. The fourth comprises the zone between King Fahd Gate and Mishaya No. eighty-seven. The fifth area encapsulates territory stretching from al-Misyal, opposite Gate No. eighty-eight to the beginning of Ajyad. Finally, the sixth area occupies the space between Bab Ali and al-Marwa, incorporating the eastern courtyard.

The courtyards receive a high volume of visitors to the Grand Mosque during Ramadan, with Iftar meals prepared and served by the relevant authorities in accordance with carefully crafted plans. These plans are devised and regulated by diligent oversight and screening commissions, which ensure that all necessary measures are taken to prevent disruptions in the Grand Mosque halls.

The courtyards have several broad entrances that enhance flexibility for visitors moving to and from the Grand Mosque using fixed stairways and escalators. In addition, specialized staff direct Umrah pilgrims to their designated positions. Furthermore, the courtyards enable ambulance teams to reach emergency cases swiftly and provide prompt assistance.

The administration of the courtyards of the Grand Mosque also provided fifteen paths and twenty entrances during the COVID-19 pandemic to remove any obstacles for pilgrims and worshipers, in line with the precautionary measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19.