Mataf

What Does Mataf Mean in Detail?

The Mataf is the central feature of مسجد الحرام, the open courtyard that encircles the کعبۃ اللہ and provides the space for حجاج to perform their seven circuits of طواف. The area is paved with specially treated white marble that remains cool despite extreme temperatures, allowing حجاج to walk barefoot. The ground floor Mataf is the most prestigious level, closest to the کعبۃ اللہ. Additional upper levels and a temporary Mataf structure have been added through Saudi expansions to increase capacity. The Mataf area includes several significant landmarks: the Hajar al-Aswad corner, the مقام ابراہیم, the زمزم well entrance, and the Multazam wall. During peak حج periods, the Mataf accommodates hundreds of thousands of حجاج simultaneously, with flow managed by Saudi authorities. The current expansion project aims to further increase the Mataf capacity to serve the ever-growing number of حجاج.