Makkah’s Grand Mosque sets new record for worshippers on 27th night of Ramadan

A new record for the largest gathering at the Grand Mosque in Makkah was set on Wednesday, the 27th night of Ramadan, as over 4.2 million worshippers thronged the sacred site in search of Laylat-ul-Qadr.

Millions also gathered at the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah to perform Taraweeh and Tahajjud prayers, seeking forgiveness on the blessed night.

Laylatul Qadr, the most sacred night in Islam, falls on an odd night in the last 10 days of Ramadan (21, 23, 25, 27, or 29).

It is a night of immense blessings and an opportunity for Muslims to engage in prayer, supplication, and remembrance of Allah. Worship performed on this night is believed to be more rewarding than a thousand months of devotion.

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Authorities implemented extensive arrangements to manage the massive crowds, ensuring a smooth, safe, and serene worship experience at both sacred sites.

The Mataf (circumambulation area) around the Holy Kaaba was specially prepared to accommodate 107,000 pilgrims per hour, allowing uninterrupted movement during rituals.

To facilitate worshippers, 428 escalators, 28 elevators, and a modern audio system with 1,300 speakers were installed. Additionally, effective medical services were provided in the courtyards to assist pilgrims in need.

For climate control, power sources with a cooling capacity of up to 90,000 tons were deployed to keep the Grand Mosque comfortable amid the overwhelming number of visitors.

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 The influx of pilgrims was efficiently controlled through digital tracking systems and an advanced crowd management network, ensuring a seamless and safe experience for all.

On the 25th night of the last ten days of Ramadan, more than 2.5 million worshippers gathered at Masjid Al-Haram and Masjid Al-Nabawi (peace be upon him), performing Nawafil prayers in deep devotion.

On the 23rd night of Ramadan, over 3 million worshippers gathered at the Grand Mosque, devoting themselves tirelessly to worship on what is widely believed to be Laylatul Qadr.