Special Marble and Smart Engineering Keep Mataf Cool Despite Makkah Heat

Despite intense sunlight and soaring temperatures in Makkah, the marble flooring of the Mataf at Masjid al-Haram remains remarkably cool underfoot.

This is no coincidence. It is the result of carefully selected natural materials combined with advanced engineering design, ensuring a comfortable environment for millions of worshippers performing Tawaf around the Holy Kaaba.

According to a report published by Saudi Gazette, the marble used in the Mataf — the open area where pilgrims circle the Holy Kaaba — is not ordinary stone. It is a high-quality natural marble sourced from cold mountainous regions.

One of the marble’s most notable characteristics is its low heat absorption capacity. Instead of retaining the sun’s heat, it reflects a significant portion of solar radiation. Its light color also plays a crucial role, as lighter shades absorb less heat compared to darker materials, helping maintain a moderate surface temperature even during peak sunlight hours.

The report further highlights that not only the material but also the engineering design contributes significantly to maintaining coolness. The marble slabs are installed with carefully calculated thickness, and air gaps are incorporated during installation. These gaps allow air circulation beneath the surface, reducing heat transfer and enabling excess heat to dissipate more quickly.