As the final days of Ramadan approach, many pilgrims are preparing for Umrah at the Great Mosque in Mecca. However, with a large number of worshippers expected, the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has urged pilgrims to be mindful of peak hours to ensure a more comfortable experience.
If you’re planning your trip during this time, here are the best (and the busiest) hours to visit. Recent data shows that the busiest times at the Great Mosque are:
- 4 PM to 10 PM
- 5 AM to 8 AM
For those looking for a quieter experience, moderate crowds are usually seen from 11 PM to 4 AM.
The calmest period tends to fall between 8 AM to 3 PM.
To manage the crowds, the authorities are implementing enhanced measures such as improved traffic management, advanced security systems, and artificial intelligence to control movement.
The authorities are continuously making improvements to accommodate the growing number of pilgrims to the area. One of the recent projects announced is the King Salman Gate, which will add 900,000 new prayer spaces near the Great Mosque.
If you’re planning your pilgrimage soon, you might also be interested in Saudi Arabia’s Umrah guide for foreign pilgrims, now available in 16 languages. This guide will help make your journey even easier and more enjoyable!
