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Abraj Al Bait
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Landmark
Abraj Al Bait is a monumental building complex in Mecca, located directly across from the Grand Mosque. The centerpiece of the complex is the Makkah Royal Clock Tower, which, at 601 meters tall, is one of the tallest buildings in the world. It features the world's largest clock face, visible from up to 25 kilometers away and illuminated at night by millions of LEDs. Completed in 2012, the complex primarily serves to accommodate pilgrims, with a capacity for tens of thousands of people. In addition to luxury hotels, Abraj Al Bait houses a massive shopping mall, prayer rooms, and an astronomy museum. The architecture combines modern skyscraper technology with traditional Islamic motifs, fundamentally transforming the skyline of Mecca. The project was initiated by the Saudi government to more efficiently handle the growing number of pilgrims visiting the holy city.
- Location: Saudi Arabia
- Top sights: Thawr cave · Clock Tower Museum
- Nearby: Ta'if (67 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 21 | 23 | 26 | 29 | 33 | 35 | 34 | 34 | 34 | 30 | 26 | 23 |
| Rain mm | 6 | 1 | 1 | 7 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 3 | 9 | 4 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Abraj Al Bait complex is a huge hotel and shopping centre open to the public. The Clock Tower Gallery features an observation deck; entry is paid.
Typical hours
The shopping centre is usually open from morning until late night. The observation deck has its own hours, often aligned with prayer times.
Photography
Photography is allowed in public areas and on the observation deck. In the sacred areas of the adjacent mosque, photography is strictly forbidden.
Time needed
A visit to the complex can take between one and three hours depending on interest. The observation deck alone takes about 30 minutes.
Combine with
The complex is right next to the Great Mosque in Mecca, itself the most important destination. Combine the visit with a pilgrimage or sightseeing of holy sites.
Getting there
Mecca is reachable via King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah; from there, buses and taxis. Abraj Al Bait is located right on the Haram square.
Insider tip
Visit the observation deck at sunset to see the lit mosque and city from above. Book tickets in advance, especially during pilgrimage season.
Geography
Facts
- The Makkah Royal Clock Tower stands at 601 meters tall.
- The clock face measures 43 by 43 meters in size.
- The complex was officially completed in the year 2012.
- It is the building with the largest floor area in the world.
- Two million LEDs illuminate the clock at night.
- A 23-meter-tall golden crescent sits at the very top.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Abraj Al Bait (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is there a hotel inside?
Yes, the complex hosts several luxury hotels, including the Fairmont.
How tall is the clock tower?
The clock tower is over 600 meters tall, one of the tallest towers in the world.
Can you see the clock up close?
Visitors can visit the museum inside the clock to admire the mechanics.
Is the tower accessible?
Yes, the entire complex is modern and fully accessible.
Are there shopping facilities?
Yes, there is a huge shopping mall on the lower levels.
Abraj Al Bait: where is it located?
Abraj Al Bait is located in Saudi Arabia.
Abraj Al Bait: what is there to see?
Highlights include Thawr cave, Clock Tower Museum.
Abraj Al Bait: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Abraj Al Bait: why is it worth visiting?
Abraj Al Bait is a monumental building complex in Mecca, located directly across from the Grand Mosque.
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Jeddah
A modern port city on the Red Sea that traditionally serves as the gateway for pilgrims traveling to Mecca.
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Kaaba
The cuboid building at the center of the Great Mosque of Mecca is the most sacred site in Islam.
Jabal al-Nour
A prominent mountain near Mecca that houses the famous Cave of Hira, a site of immense spiritual significance.
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