Did you hear the news about the King Salman Gate Project near Al-Masjid Al-Haram?
It’s a huge new development planned right next to the Grand Mosque in Makkah. The idea is to completely transform the urban landscape adjacent to the Grand Mosque with better housing, hotels, and cultural spaces as part of Saudi Vision 2030. The project was announced on October 15, 2025 by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
The entire plan covers about twelve million square meters. It’s not just one gate it's one of the biggest expansion projects ever planned in Makkah. The King Salman Gate will be built on the north side of Masjid Al-Haram and will act as an important entry point for pilgrims heading into the mosque.
Why This Expansion Became Essential
For centuries, Makkah has welcomed pilgrims from every corner of the world. In recent years, the number of visitors has continued to rise, and Umrah alone is expected to reach nearly thirty million pilgrims annually in the coming years. This growth is driven by easier access and more flexible visa policies.
With these increasing numbers, managing the flow of pilgrims has become more challenging. The current capacity of the Haram hardly facilitates the large-scale pilgrimage, leading to congestion, limited mobility, and difficulties in ensuring smooth emergency access.
Many old buildings near the Haram do not meet the safety standards and lack the structural capacity required for modern accommodation. The King Salman Gate development will directly address these challenges by replacing outdated infrastructure with a well-planned urban environment that meets practical needs while preserving the spirituality and sanctity of the area.
Expanding Worship Capacity and Reducing Congestion
The project is designed to accommodate around nine hundred thousand worshippers across indoor and outdoor prayer areas. This will lead to lessening the crowding and reducing the foot traffic throughout the Haram surroundings. The expansion not only provides a larger area for worship but also includes new residential communities, premium apartments, and a wide range of hospitality options across four- and five-star hotels. Many shopping facilities, restaurants, cultural, and heritage components have been integrated in a way that preserves the historical identity of the holy city.
Modern Infrastructure Designed Around Pilgrims
Accessibility and comfortable movement are the core elements of this expansion project. Many walkable routes will directly connect pilgrims to the Masjid Al-Haram. These routes will reduce dependence on vehicles. The organised transport solution will support smooth arrival and departure during peak seasons. The project will also facilitate parking of vehicles for up to thirty thousand to prevent spillover into surrounding neighbourhoods. The development aims to create a safer, more predictable flow of crowds, especially during Ramadan and Hajj.
Economic and Financial Impact on the Kingdom
King Salman Gate will greatly impact the economy of Saudi Arabia. The development supports the broader Vision 2030 objective, aimed at transforming religious tourism into a sustainable economic pillar. Reports indicate that the project is expected to generate hundreds of thousands of direct and indirect jobs across construction, hospitality, retail, and long-term operations. When new hotels, residences, and commercial districts become operational, the local economy will benefit in many ways, including more spending from visitors, more activity for nearby businesses, and a steady flow of long-term investments that will support jobs and growth in the region.
Religious tourism already adds billions to the national economy each year. By increasing capacity, improving visitor experience, and extending average stay durations. The project enhances revenue while reducing pressure on existing facilities. The redevelopment also increases property values in Makkah.
A Vision Aligned With Saudi Arabia’s Future
Beyond economic outcomes, the project carries cultural and social significance. It aims to present Makkah as a global model for urban development that respects heritage while providing modern infrastructure for a comfortable pilgrimage experience. The integration of preserved historical sites within the master plan demonstrates a commitment to preserving the city’s identity as it evolves.
Led by RUA and Backed by the Public Investment Fund
RUA AlHaram AlMakki Company, a Public Investment Fund-owned entity responsible for execution and long-term oversight, is developing the project. Early engagement channels have already opened for residents, operators, and investors. King Salman Gate represents more than a physical expansion. It marks a shift toward a future where every pilgrim arrives with dignity, moves with ease, and worships with comfort. The King Salman Gate will be an experience worthy of the millions who travel every year with a single intention.
