Al Mataf

Al Mataf (Arabic: المطاف) is the open area surrounding the Kaaba in the Masjid al-Haram (Great Mosque) in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. It is the designated space for performing the Tawaf, the Islamic ritual of circumambulating the Kaaba seven times in a counter-clockwise direction. Pilgrims from around the world gather in Al Mataf during Hajj and Umrah to fulfill this essential part of their pilgrimage. The area has undergone several expansions and renovations over the centuries to accommodate the increasing number of worshippers. Al Mataf is generally paved and facilitates a continuous flow of pilgrims performing Tawaf. During peak periods, the area becomes densely crowded, and pilgrims may perform Tawaf on multiple levels using temporary structures or designated upper floors within the Masjid al-Haram. The size of Al Mataf directly impacts the ease and flow of the Tawaf ritual.