As part of ongoing efforts to enhance the comfort and safety of pilgrims, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has officially activated the world’s largest integrated cooling system at the Grand Mosque in Makkah, ahead of the 1446 Hajj season.
The advanced cooling system, which spans the entire mosque complex, is designed to combat the intense summer heat and ensure that worshippers can perform their religious rites with minimal discomfort. Saudi authorities confirmed that the system is capable of producing over 120,000 refrigeration tons, making it the most powerful of its kind globally.
The cooling network draws chilled water from massive plants located several kilometers away and distributes it efficiently through underground pipelines connected to air-handling units strategically placed around the mosque. The system also incorporates air purifiers and climate control mechanisms to regulate temperature and maintain high air quality throughout the premises.
According to the General Presidency for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques, the project reflects the Kingdom’s continuous investments in infrastructure to support millions of Muslims who converge on Makkah for Hajj and Umrah annually. This year’s Hajj is expected to attract a record number of pilgrims from over 180 countries.
Pilgrims and religious leaders have lauded the initiative, describing it as a testament to Saudi Arabia’s commitment to ensuring a safe, spiritually fulfilling, and physically comfortable pilgrimage experience.
The activation of the mega cooling system marks a major milestone in Saudi Arabia’s broader Vision 2030 plan, which emphasizes technological innovation and service excellence in religious tourism.
