Mecca Mataf Expansion: Tawaf Around the Kaaba at Masjid al-Haram
The Mataf (Ω Ψ·Ψ§Ω) is more than just a site; it is a spiritual experience that is undertaken by millions of Muslims around the world every year. In the Masjid al-Haram (Ψ§ΩΩ Ψ³Ψ¬Ψ― Ψ§ΩΨΨ±Ψ§Ω ) in Mecca (Makkah), the Mataf region is the area where pilgrims perform Tawaf, which is the act of circling the Kaaba (Ψ§ΩΩΨΉΨ¨Ψ©) seven times around the Kaaba in a counterclockwise direction.
The pilgrims surmount in towers of people to the courtyard surrounding the Kaaba, which is made out of pure white marble.
Due to the rising number of pilgrims to Islam, there is an ever-growing demand for convenience, comfort, and innovation.
This article helps you understand the significance, history, and large extension of Mataf, along with the important facts about the religious site.
What is Mataf? Understanding the Significance of Tawaf
The Meaning and Importance of Mataf
It is a place designed for tawaf or circumambulation around the Kaaba Sharif.
In essence, Mataf is a Tawaf area in which the worshipers can walk freely and freely perform Tawaf without being obstructed by the surrounding worshipers.
Tawaf Rituals in Hajj and Umrah
There are different types of Tawaf, including:
- Tawaf al-Umrah
- Tawaf al-Qudum (arrival)
- Tawaf al-Ifadah (during Hajj)
- Tawaf al-Wadaa (farewell)
- Tawaf al-Tatowe (voluntary)
All of these take place in the Mataf, which is considered one of the most spiritually busy places in our world.
Historical Development of the Mataf Area
Mataf During the Prophetic Era
In the Era of Prophet Muhammad ο·Ί, Masjid al-Haram was surrounded by houses. Small passageways opened onto the masjid from where its floors were.
The Mataf was just a small patch of ground area with no flooring.
Mataf Expansion by Caliph Umar ibn al-Khattab
The flood of 639 CE, which damaged the Kaaba, led to the Umar ibn al-Khattab demolishing surrounding houses to expand the Mataf and enclose the Zamzam Well.
Contributions of Abdullah ibn al-Zubayr and Al-Walid ibn Abdul Malik
In 684 CE, Abdullah ibn al-Zubayr paved the Mataf with leftover stones from the rebuilt Kaaba.
Later, in 737 CE, Al-Walid ibn Abdul Malik used the iconic structure, replacing the floor with marble for the first time.
Abbasid and Mamluk Era Renovations
The Abbasids and Mamluks added engraved marble, domes and decorative stones.
Alongside these architectural features, upgrades to the Mataf continued to improve functionality and beauty for the pilgrims.
Ottoman Era Contributions and Renovations
Suleiman the Magnificent added a new minaret, paved floors, and a marble minbar during the renovations.
These additions enhanced the structural integrity of the Mataf area, which has been renowned for its Ottoman influence.
Major Saudi Expansions of Mataf
Early Saudi Expansions (1950s and 1960s)
In the 1950s, King Abdul Aziz expanded the region by removing several structures, deepening the zam zam well, and elevating the tawaf area.
Recent Mataf Expansion Project (2016)
In 2016, the Mataf temporary bridge was dismantled, allowing the Tawaf capacity to increase to 107,000 pilgrims per hour.
The redesign also included the addition of escalators, multi-level floors, and improved ventilation systems.
Modern Features: Multi-floor Structure and Escalators
Todayβs Mataf includes:
- Ground floor
- First floor
- Second-floor mezzanine
- Roof level
These components form a four-story system commonly referred to as the ground floor, first-floor, second-floor mezzanine, as well as roof.
Apart from that, some ramps and escalators interconnect these floors, promoting better fluidity and safety.
Distinctive Marble Flooring of Mataf
Cold Marble Flooring for Pilgrimsβ Comfort
To bless the pilgrims with maximum comfort, a special kind of marble is used that does not absorb heat, meaning devotees can perform Tawaf without discomfort.
Technological Innovation in Flooring
The cold marble flooring is subjected to an underground ventilation system that is designed for the entire Sahn al-Mataf region.
Important Structures Within Mataf
Zamzam Well History and Its Relocation
The Zamzam Well was historically within Matafβs bounds, relocating down the ground in 1963. It is still accessible to pilgrims via numerous dedicated kiosks.
Maqam Ibrahim and its Historical Changes
From being freely accessible during the early years of Islam, Maqam Ibrahim has undergone a series of transformations and is now encased within a protective structure that permits prayer.
Historical Significance and Removal of Maqamat
Four Maqamat were previously built, each corresponding to the four Sunni schools of thought.
In the 20th century, these were removed to facilitate unified prayer lines and increase the Tawaf space.
Pulpit and its Evolution Over Time
Once a simple stone platform, the pulpit (minbar) has transformed into a high-tech marvel with remote controls for its functions and Islamic motifs integrated into its sleek surface.
Historical Gates and Landmarks
Bab Bani Shaybah: The Gate of Peace
Alongside being known as Bab al-Salam, this gate was also used by the Prophet ο·Ί, being destroyed in 1967 expansion.
Quranic verses once appeared on its arches, amplifying its significance.
Hijr Ismail and its Religious Importance
Located in the Mataf, Hijr Ismail is a semi-circular wall that marks a region that was once part of the original Kaaba structure.
Its current location, combined with its unparalleled spiritual significance, makes it deeply revered.
Pilgrim Capacity and Facilities After Expansion
Increased Pilgrim Capacity and Accommodation
Based on recent advancements, the Mataf can now serve a maximum of 107,000 pilgrims per hour, which was previously limited to 19,000.
Improved Pilgrim Flow and Accessibility
With the use of strategic entrances, fencing systems, and monitors for tracking check-in, millions of worshippers are now organized during the Hajj and Umrah seasons.
Importance of Mataf Expansion for Hajj and Umrah
Facilitating an Increased Number of Pilgrims
With Muslims around the world growing in numbers, expanding the Mataf was crucial for safety, spiritual fulfilment, and managing queues.
Enhancing Spiritual Experience
Every floor has an unobstructed view of the Kaaba, ensuring powerful and personal Tawafs, making each one memorable.
Future Developments and Ongoing Projects
Continuous Improvement Plans for Mataf Area
Future developments aim to:
- Expand basement levels
- Enhance air conditioning
- Add AR-based guides for non-Arabic speakers
Enhancing Pilgrim Experience in Future Expansions
Ongoing projects will focus on:
- Robotic cleaning systems
- AI-powered traffic management
- Real-time app alerts for crowd density
Frequently Asked Questions about Mataf and Tawaf
How Many Times Do You Circle the Kaaba?
Seven times in a counter-clockwise direction, starting from the Black Stone.
What is Special about Matafβs Marble Flooring?
It remains cool even in scorching heat, ensuring comfort for barefoot pilgrims.
Can You Visit Zamzam Well Today?
The water can be accessed, but you cannot get to the mouth of the well, which is now sealed off and buried.
What is the Mataf Capacity?
Following the latest works, Tawaf can now be performed by 107,000 pilgrims within one hour.
Can You Go to Mataf Without Ihram?
Yes, for Umrah and Hajj, Ihram is required, but general visitors may enter the Mataf area outside those rituals.
What is the Meaning of π Emoji?
The Kaaba emoji π symbolizes the holy site in Mecca around which Tawaf is performed.
Why Was Bab Bani Shaybah Demolished?
To expand the Mataf area and accommodate more pilgrims during Tawaf.
What Is Sahn al-Mataf?
It refers to the courtyard of the Grand Mosque where Tawaf is performed.
Why Were Maqamat Removed?
To create space for larger prayer congregations and simplify ritual practices.
Are There Future Expansions Planned?
Yes, including new basement levels, smart crowd control, and digital mapping systems.
π Table: Mataf Expansion Timeline & Capacity Boost
| Era | Major Development | Tawaf Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Prophetic Era | Open area, no walls | N/A |
| Umar ibn al-Khattab | Enlarged Mataf, removed nearby homes | ~1,000 |
| Ottoman Era | New minarets, flooring, pulpit | ~10,000 |
| 1950s Saudi Era | Leveled land, moved Zamzam underground | ~19,000/hr |
| 2016 Expansion | Multi-level Mataf, marble flooring | 107,000/hr |
Enjoyed this deep dive into the Mecca Mataf Expansion? Share it with someone planning Hajj or Umrah, or save it for your own future spiritual journey. β¨
Farrukh Farooqi has been living in Sharaya, Makkah, Saudi Arabia since 2010. With over 14 years of firsthand experience witnessing the sacred journey of millions of pilgrims, Farrukh specializes in providing practical, insider tips for Hajj and Umrah travelers. His work blends real-world observations, the latest Saudi updates, and essential crowd management strategies β helping pilgrims and worshippers plan smarter, stay safer, and experience a spiritually fulfilling journey across the Holy Cities.
