Grand Mosque Cooling Keeps 22-24°C in Peak Summer

The cooling system serving the Grand Mosque in Makkah keeps indoor temperatures steady between 22 and 24°C across prayer halls, facilities, and courtyards, ensuring worshippers stay comfortable even during the peak of summer heat.

The integrated system delivers a total capacity of roughly 155,000 refrigeration tons, covering about 1.5 million square meters. It is anchored by two main plants: the Shamiya station, with a capacity of 120,000 refrigeration tons and located around 900 meters from the mosque, and the Ajyad station, with a capacity of about 35,000 refrigeration tons located roughly 500 meters away. A dedicated expansion sector adds a further 90,000 refrigeration tons to the overall network.

At the stations, chilled water is cooled to 4–5°C, then circulated through an underground pipe network and mechanical rooms before being distributed through air handling units across the mosque. The system runs 24/7, with continuous monitoring of temperature, humidity, and air balance to match visitor density and maintain energy efficiency.

Clean, filtered air

Fresh air is drawn from roof-level intakes and passed through multi-stage filters that trap dust and fine particles, then sterilised using ultraviolet technology. Purification cycles run nine times daily, removing up to 95% of impurities and delivering effectively germ-free air in the prayer halls. Backup cooling stations stand ready in case of technical failure, supported by scheduled maintenance that includes monthly inspections of key units and daily cleaning of purification filters.

Operation and service improvements are overseen by the General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque, with specialised HVAC partners handling technical operation under multi-year agreements tuned to peak Hajj and Umrah demand. For worshippers, the effort translates into a cool, clean, and comfortable environment throughout the year.

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