Why the Mataf Courtyard of Masjid al-Haram Stays Cool Even in Scorching Heat
Mecca: Pilgrims performing Hajj and Umrah often notice that the Mataf courtyard of Masjid al-Haram remains cool even under intense sunlight and extreme heat. The reason behind this is the special type of marble used in the courtyard.
The Mataf is the area where Muslims perform the circumambulation (Tawaf) around the Kaaba, an act of worship that continues day and night. To ensure pilgrims’ comfort during the peak afternoon heat, the Saudi government selected imported marble specifically designed to reflect sunlight rather than absorb it, keeping the surface cool.
According to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), the marble slabs installed in the Mataf are sourced from cooler regions and fitted in a unique way. Spaces are left between each slab to allow air circulation, which helps maintain a consistently cool temperature across the courtyard.
This combination of reflective marble and carefully engineered installation ensures that pilgrims can perform Tawaf comfortably, even during the hottest parts of the day.
