Advanced cooling system ensures year-round comfort at the Two Holy Mosques

The General Authority for the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque continues to operate an integrated system of engineering solutions and modern technologies, aiming to provide a comfortable and moderate environment for visitors to the Two Holy Mosques throughout the year, despite high temperatures across the Kingdom.

The system begins at the outer courtyards, where mist fans help cool the air and reduce the sensation of heat, offering greater comfort to visitors as they move around, especially during the daytime. The design accommodates continuous movement and multiple pathways between entrances, courtyards, and prayer areas.

Additionally, the white courtyards are paved with Thassos marble, which helps limit heat absorption. The marble’s fine pores absorb moisture at night and gradually release it as temperatures rise during the day, reducing the impact of sunlight and making it easier for pilgrims to move around the courtyards, particularly at midday.

Centralized cooling technologies in both mosques

Upon entering the Grand Mosque, the cooling system shifts to centralized air conditioning, with a total capacity of around 155,000 refrigeration tons. This system distributes cooled air throughout the mosque, maintaining temperatures between 22 and 24 degrees Celsius around the clock to provide a comfortable environment for worshippers and pilgrims.

At the Prophet’s Mosque, a central cooling station located about 7 kilometers west of the mosque operates six cooling units, each with a capacity of 3,400 tons. This ensures effective and balanced distribution of cooled air throughout the mosque.

The cooling system at the Two Holy Mosques represents a comprehensive model that combines engineering solutions, natural features, monitoring and control systems, and preventive maintenance to create a suitable environment for pilgrims year-round.