Latest news with #MasjidAlHaram
Al Jazeera
6 days ago
- Health
- Al Jazeera
The water of Hajj: A simple illustrated guide to Zamzam
The Hajj pilgrimage began on Wednesday. Some 1.8 million Muslims from across the globe are expected to gather in the Saudi holy city of Mecca for the annual gathering that will conclude on June 8. Hajj is a once-in-a-lifetime obligation for all adult Muslims who are physically and financially able to make the journey. Throughout the sacred pilgrimage, pilgrims drink from Zamzam, a wellspring believed to have been flowing for more than 4,000 years, nourishing them to this day. But where does this water come from, and why does it hold such deep significance? Zamzam water comes from a well, located within the Grand Mosque of Mecca (Masjid al-Haram), some 21 metres (69 feet) east of the Kaaba. The Zamzam well is beneath the Mataf area, which is the white marble-tiled space surrounding the Kaaba where pilgrims perform 1962, King Saud commissioned the expansion of the Mataf area to better accommodate the growing number of pilgrims. As part of this project, the opening of the Zamzam well was lowered and enclosed in a basement approximately 2.7 metres (9 feet) deep beneath the Mataf. In 2003, the basement entrances were closed, and drinking fountains were relocated to the sides of the Mataf to allow for further expansion. Today, pilgrims access Zamzam water through dispensers and fountains spread throughout the Grand Mosque. Zamzam water is deeply connected to the origins of Mecca and the story of Prophet Abraham (Ibrahim), his wife Hagar (Hajar), and their son Ishmael (Ismail). According to Islamic tradition, Prophet Abraham left Hagar and baby Ishmael in the desert valley of Mecca by God's command as a test of faith. When their provisions ran out, Hagar ran back and forth seven times between the two small hills of Safa and Marwa searching for water. God responded to her faith and struggle with a miracle: water began to gush from the ground near baby Ishmael's feet – this became the Zamzam well. This spring saved their lives and led to the settlement of Mecca, which today has a population of about 2.2 million. During Hajj and Umrah, pilgrims re-enact Hagar's search for water by walking seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwa in the ritual of Sa'i and drink Zamzam water following the tradition of the Prophet Muhammad, who praised its purity and healing qualities. According to Islamic tradition, when the Zamzam spring miraculously gushed forth near baby Ishmael's feet, Hagar tried to contain the water, fearing it would run out. She is said to have exclaimed 'Zamzam', which is often understood to mean 'stop! stop!' or 'hold! hold!' as she tried to stop the water from flowing away by gathering it around the spring. Zamzam water comes from a natural underground source beneath the Grand Mosque in Mecca. The well draws water from an aquifer, a layer of rock and sand that holds water, which is refilled by rainwater that seeps in from the surrounding Ibrahim Valley (Wadi Ibrahim) and nearby hills. The Zamzam well is about 31 metres (101 feet) deep and was originally hand-dug. Water enters the well through loose sand and gravel in the top part, and also from cracks in the solid rock below. Today, electric pumps bring the water up instead of the old rope-and-bucket method. The well itself is now closed to the public, but the water is available through fountains and dispensers around the Grand Zamzam well is considered to have flowed uninterrupted for more than 4,000 years. The continuous flow of water and its central role in Hajj and Umrah have been well-documented for centuries. According to the General Authority for the Care & Management of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque, extraction and consumption of Zamzam vary by season: According to the Saudi visa office, Mecca is expecting to welcome 15 million Umrah pilgrims in 2025. To manage this demand, the Zamzam well is monitored in real time using digital sensors that track water level, pH (potential of hydrogen; a measure of the acidity or alkalinity of a liquid), temperature, and conductivity. Additional monitoring wells across Wadi Ibrahim help assess how the entire aquifer responds to water use and rainfall. The Zamzam Studies and Research Centre (ZSRC) estimates how much water can be safely extracted and advises the Grand Mosque authority on sustainable pumping levels. Each year, the Saudi Geological Survey (SGS) issues a pumping schedule, with peak demand during Ramadan and Dhul-Hijjah and the lowest in Muharram. If water levels fall below a set threshold, pumping is paused to allow the well to recover, ensuring a stable, long-term water is clear and odourless, but it has a distinct taste due to its rich mineral content. It is slightly alkaline, with a pH between 7.9 and 8.0, higher than regular drinking water. A study by King Saud University found no biological contamination or algae in Zamzam water, which are common in other wells and can affect taste and safety. The minerals in Zamzam water offer several health benefits: Overall, the total mineral count for Zamzam is 835mg/litre compared with Riyadh's tap water at 350mg/ Saudi government prohibits the sale of Zamzam water for commercial purposes and strictly regulates its distribution to ensure it is provided as a sacred gift to pilgrims and not exploited for returning from Hajj or Umrah often bring back a 5-litre bottle of Zamzam water to share with family and friends back home. Because Zamzam water is considered a special gift, airlines typically do not include it in the regular luggage allowance, so pilgrims often carry it separately or follow specific guidelines when transporting it home. Shipping Zamzam water through Saudi airports is simple and convenient—just follow the guidelines and use the designated containers for a smooth and hassle-free journey.#Makkah_And_Madinah_Eagerly_Await_You#Ease_And_Tranquility — Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (@MoHU_En) March 28, 2025Saudi authorities have established a sophisticated, multistage system to store and distribute Zamzam water, ensuring it remains clean, safe and easily accessible. Electric pumps transport Zamzam water 5km (3 miles) south to the King Abdullah Zamzam Water Project in Kudai. There, the water is purified and then bottled. After treatment, the water is stored in two main reservoirs:
Gulf Business
03-06-2025
- Health
- Gulf Business
Hajj 2025 goes hi-tech: 6 innovations transforming the pilgrimage
Image credit: Getty Images In preparation for the Hajj season of 1446 AH, Saudi authorities have rolled out a series of innovative services and infrastructure upgrades aimed at improving safety, comfort, and convenience for millions of pilgrims expected to perform the annual pilgrimage. Read- From advanced cooling technologies at the Grand Mosque to AI-powered smart tents and streamlined logistics, Saudi is combining tradition with innovation to ensure a spiritually enriching and smooth experience for all. World's largest cooling system activated at Grand Mosque To maintain a comfortable environment amid high summer temperatures, the General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque has activated the world's largest cooling system, boasting a total capacity of 155,000 refrigeration tons. The system will serve the Grand Mosque (Masjid Al Haram), ensuring optimal conditions for pilgrims during the physically demanding rituals of Hajj. The cooling infrastructure is supported by two main stations: the Shamiya Station with a capacity of 120,000 tons, and the Ajyad Station with 35,000 tons. These stations regulate indoor temperatures to a pleasant range between 22°C and 24°C, aided by air purification systems that eliminate 95 per cent of airborne impurities. Smart tents and IoT solutions enhance safety and service delivery In a significant technological leap, stc Group has deployed Internet of Things (IoT) systems and Smart Tents to enhance safety, monitoring, and response times during Hajj. The Smart Tents are fitted with sensors and cameras that track environmental metrics such as temperature, humidity, and smoke, offering real-time insight into internal and external conditions. These systems can detect emerging issues and automatically relay alerts to relevant authorities. With access to live data, authorities can respond rapidly to medical, security, or logistical needs, ensuring both safety and efficient crowd management. 'Hajj Without Luggage' service simplifies pilgrimage travel To reduce the physical burden on pilgrims, Saudi Post (SPL) has introduced the 'Hajj Without Luggage' service. This initiative allows for the seamless transfer of luggage from a pilgrim's home or local SPL branch directly to their accommodation at the holy sites—or even to destinations outside Saudi Arabia. The service enhances convenience by removing the need for pilgrims to carry their belongings between sites. After Hajj, luggage can be collected from a pilgrim's residence and delivered to their registered National Address, with tracking available via the SPL app or website. Haramain high-speed railway boosts transport efficiency To meet the high demand for transportation during the pilgrimage season, Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) is operating hourly trips on the Haramain High Speed Railway between King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah and Makkah. These fast, electric trains reach speeds up to 300 km/h, enabling rapid and efficient transit for arriving pilgrims. SAR has scheduled more than 4,700 trips for the Hajj period, marking one of the largest operations in the railway's history and significantly reducing travel time and logistical strain. Water cooling project in Arafat to serve 140,000 pilgrims per hour The Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance has launched a large-scale water supply project at Namirah Mosque in Arafat, aimed at reducing heat stress and ensuring easy access to drinking water. The initiative includes the deployment of 70 cooling units, each capable of producing 1,000 liters of cool water per hour. These units are integrated with a new water distribution and sewage network, ensuring hygienic and continuous operation. Collectively, they can serve up to 140,000 pilgrims per hour, making it one of the largest hydration efforts undertaken at a single Hajj site. Interactive map helps pilgrims navigate Grand Mosque services In another digital upgrade, the General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque has introduced a multi-language interactive map designed to help pilgrims navigate the sprawling Grand Mosque complex. The map helps locate key services such as Zamzam water stations, lost and found offices, medical facilities, cart distribution points, and centers for assisting lost individuals. It's part of a wider push to streamline access to resources and simplify rituals for pilgrims of all backgrounds.
Zawya
18-05-2025
- Zawya
Address Jabal Omar Makkah introduces the seamless Address Walkway to Masjid Al Haram
This stunning property has now introduced a new walking and golf cart route to the Sacred Mosque, along with a shuttle bus service and exclusive VIP transportation available at SAR 250 per journey. Makkah, Saudi Arabia: Situated in the epicentre of the holy city, Address Jabal Omar Makkah blends modern sophistication with world-class hospitality, creating a serene and spiritual haven for guests. To further elevate the property's allure, the stunning hotel has recently introduced the Address Walkway to directly access the famed Masjid Al Haram in under five minutes on foot. Previously, this walk took approximately 10 minutes, but the new route offers an improved, faster connection. Guests can travel along the walkway on foot, by golf cart, or choose between VIP transportation and accessible shuttle buses via an alternative route, each option thoughtfully designed to provide effortless convenience for every traveller. Nicolas Bellaton, Head of Emaar Hospitality Group, highlighted the significance of this development: "The Address Walkway reflects our dedication to providing high-quality services and exceptional experiences for our guests. This thoughtful addition offers a seamless connection to one of the world's most revered landmarks, further enhancing the convenience and comfort we strive to deliver every day, ensuring an exceptional stay for all our guests. Eng. Saleh Al Habdan, CEO of Jabal Omar Development Company, added: "This new route is a significant step in our mission to support pilgrims and visitors in their spiritual journey. By reducing walking time and offering multiple transportation options, we aim to make the connection to Masjid Al Haram as accessible and effortless as possible." Masjid Al Haram, also known as the Sacred Mosque, is a place of profound spiritual significance. It is home to the Kaaba and serves as the focal point for the Hajj pilgrimage alongside revered landmarks such as the Black Stone, the Zamzam Well, Maqam Ibrahim, and the Safa and Marwa hills. With its proximity to this iconic landmark, Address Jabal Omar Makkah allows pilgrims and travellers to connect with their faith in a setting of unparallelled reverence and grandeur. Situated beneath the property's awe-inspiring Sky Mussallah, the world's highest prayer room within a sky bridge, the new Address Walkway offers guests the option to walk the short route or begin with a convenient golf cart ride to the first ramp. From the exit doors of Towers H1A and H2Z of the hotel, the golf carts transport guests to a straight pathway that leads directly to Masjid Al Haram. Equipped with escalators, stairs, and elevators along the way, this route is perfect for soaking in the breathtaking views of the city and pleasant winter weather. For a faster connection, Address Jabal Omar Makkah also offers regular shuttle buses departing from the hotel's ML and C1 floors, reaching the mosque in under four minutes. Designed with all guests in mind, these buses include accessible vehicles for those with special mobility needs. For those seeking the pinnacle of convenience and style, the property's exclusive VIP transportation service provides luxurious, private vehicles with 24/7 availability. This premium option offers a direct drop-off at the nearest access point to Masjid Al Haram, ensuring a seamless and stress-free journey. Guests can purchase a single-use round-trip pass for SAR 250 per room, which includes both drop-off and pickup, available at the reception. Boasting a prime location, just a stone's throw away from Makkah's top attractions and sacred landmarks, Address Jabal Omar Makkah presents a truly unforgettable stay. Building on its reputation as a haven of Arabic traditions and modern luxury, the property's newest Address Walkway and transport options to and from Masjid Al Haram make every journey effortless and enjoyable. For Exclusive Offers: For bookings and more information, email: stayatmakkah@ About Address Hotels + Resorts Address Hotels + Resorts is the first brand launched by Emaar Hospitality Group with properties situated in some of the most sought-after locations. Address brings a fresh identity to the global hospitality and service sector by setting new benchmarks with its gracious hospitality and exceptional service. Recognised for its fusion of contemporary style with a touch of classic elegance, Address Hotels + Resorts enriches the lives of its guests with intuitive experiences. Staying true to its tagline 'Where Life Happens', Address offers its guests opportunities to celebrate life and its most cherished moments. It is the ultimate Address.
