Abraj Al Bait: a contemporary symbol of Makkah
At a staggering 601 meters high and 120 floors tall, Abraj Al Bait is one of the most important architectural landmarks in Mecca.
This massive complex accommodates around 65,000 people,
making it not only an engineering marvel but also a lively hub of activity in the city.

History and development:

From an ancient Ottoman castle to a modern complex,
the history of Abraj Al Bait tells a story of amazing transformation.
The journey began with an order from King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz to develop the castle’s old,
unused land into an endowment for the Two Holy Mosques, representing a bold reimagining of the site.
Abraj Al-Bait Towers is located in front of the Grand Mosque in Mecca and directly in front of King Abdul Aziz Gate

Original design and development:

What many do not know about the old design of the building, which was different from the current building,

as the original design of the Abraj Al-Bait style reflects a normal style closer to contemporary European buildings, and Russian ones in particular.

External cladding materials of glass as well as precast concrete were adopted,

but The design was transformed into a more modern architectural style and a clock tower was added.

Exclusive photos of the project show this different transformation of the design structure and the way the building rises from the old,

unknown design to the new design,

as it shows the increasing height and the more modern design that has become a distinctive feature of the complex.

Old picture of the real design of Abraj Al Bait

Architectural criticism and response to it:

Undeclared criticisms were directed,
and criticisms were directed by Abd al-Rahman Koko and other groups of low-paid architects and some academics caught up in the whirlwind of the classical architectural style.
This movement timidly claimed that the building did not conform to the architectural style
and Meccan architectural identity and that it should It contains Rawashin
and some ancient Hejazi elements, focusing on allegations about ignoring Meccan identity.
Here, a response was made about how these criticisms
were answered through the unique design of the project and how it is compatible with development projects.
I do not know how the star of neighboring projects has been depleted.

Logistical challenges and achievements:

The project was built within a tight time schedule,
and during the construction period many plans
and environmental obstacles occurred that led to the disruption of the number of pilgrims.
The enormous efforts and challenges faced by the construction teams were highlighted,
and how they were overcome to complete this huge project.
plans for the real design of Abraj Al Bait

Judicial debate:

Despite the wide fame of the project and despite the noble goal that was built through it and for it,
according to the events reported in the newspapers,
the commercial center of the Abraj Al-Bait Center was subject to a wide controversy
due to the legal disputes that occurred due to the administration
of the Abraj Al-Bait Center cutting off the electrical current and services from it.
Investors within the mall and disrupting their investments,
resulting in legal conflicts that lasted for a decade, almost threatening the reputation of the prestigious project.
المركز التجاري حريق ابراح البيت

Benefit and cultural advantage:

The undeniable truth is that Abraj Al-Bait is the highest structure in Mecca,

which grants views of the call to prayer that surpass what a loudspeaker can provide.

Thanks to this monumental symbol of Islam, located prominently on the skyline,

those at the boundaries of Mecca can witness the joyous festivities and appointed times.

Abraj Al Bait: a contemporary symbol of Makkah

 

Tourist hotel facade:

Abraj Al Bait is a luxury hotel destination that receives more than 4 million pilgrims annually.

Towering skyscrapers stand steps away from the first qibla for Muslims at the Grand Mosque in Mecca, including the tallest clock tower in the world.

The towers consist of 76 floors, including 7 five-star luxury hotels, offering a distinctive hospitality experience, with vibrant, spiritual views.

It also includes a group of restaurants that offer the best local and international flavors, in addition to a large shopping center that meets all your needs.

 

7 luxury hotels:

Abraj Al Bait includes 7 hotels with wonderful panoramic views,

where you can admire pilgrims and worshipers coming

from all over the world as they circumambulate the Kaaba.

Flocks of pigeons fly over the worshipers and pilgrims in a spiritual scene full of reassurance and tranquility.

Luxury hospitality services await you when you stay in any five-star hotel,

with multiple amenities, including full gyms and swimming pools for children and adults.

You can also enjoy the shopping experience in the heart of Mecca,

starting from the first floor and ending with the seventh floor.

More than 600 shops spread over an area of 190,000 square meters,

including elegant clothing stores and beauty supplies stores that complement your look with the finest local and international products.

 

See More: The mountainous nature of Makkah

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