5 Main Gates of Masjid al Haram (Grand Mosque)

Rukhsar Rehman

March 15, 2025

The twin minarets serve as distinctive markers for pilgrims seeking the primary entrances to Islam’s holiest mosque.

Masjid Al Haram, the Grand Mosque surrounding the Kaaba in Makkah, welcomes millions of pilgrims annually through its numerous entrances.

Table of Contents

First-time visitors often find themselves overwhelmed when trying to locate specific entry points. However, there exists a simple architectural feature that distinguishes the five main gates from the others: the presence of twin minarets towering above each main entrance.

King Abdul Aziz Gate (Gate 1)

The King Abdul Aziz Gate, marked as Gate 1, stands as the primary entrance to Masjid Al Haram. Located on the western side of the complex, this monumental gate serves as the main reference point from which all other gates are numbered. Its twin minarets rise prominently above the entrance, visible from considerable distances throughout Makkah’s central district.

Named after the founder of modern Saudi Arabia, this gate features expansive corridors and ramps that accommodate thousands of worshipers simultaneously.

Its strategic location near the Ajyad district makes it particularly accessible for pilgrims staying in western Makkah, and it serves as a key entry point during the Umrah ritual when pilgrims enter to perform Tawaf.

Bab Al Fath (Gate 45)

Bab Al Fath, or the Gate of Victory, is distinguished by its twin minarets on the northern side of the mosque. As Gate 45, it represents a significant entry point for pilgrims approaching from the Al-Ghassalah and Al-Shamiyyah neighborhoods. The name “Al Fath” commemorates the peaceful conquest of Makkah during the Prophet Muhammad’s lifetime.

This gate is particularly notable for its proximity to the Sa’i path between Safa and Marwa, making it convenient for pilgrims completing this ritual. During less crowded periods, many worshippers prefer this entrance for its relatively smoother flow of pedestrian traffic compared to other main gates.

Bab Al Umrah (Gate 62)

Located on the western perimeter, Bab Al Umrah (Gate 62) is particularly significant for pilgrims who have just completed their Ihram and are entering to perform Umrah rituals. Its twin minarets serve as beacons for pilgrims approaching from Masjid Al Tan’eem, where many assume their Ihram state.

The gate derives its name from its traditional use as the primary entrance for Umrah performers. Its wide corridors and designated pathways help organize the flow of visitors, many of whom enter with the intention of proceeding directly to the Kaaba for Tawaf. During Ramadan, this gate sees particularly heavy traffic in the evenings as worshipers arrive for Taraweeh prayers.

King Fahad Gate (Gate 79)

The King Fahad Gate, numbered as Gate 79, stands prominently on the southern side of Masjid Al Haram. Named after King Fahad bin Abdulaziz, during whose reign significant expansions of the mosque were completed, this entrance is marked by its imposing twin minarets visible throughout southern Makkah.

This gate is strategically positioned to serve pilgrims arriving from the Misfalah and Ajyad neighborhoods. Its massive escalators and elevators make it particularly accessible for elderly and disabled visitors. The king’s name reflects the gate’s grandeur, as it features extensive marble work and calligraphy that exemplifies the finest Islamic architectural traditions.

King Abdullah Gate (Gate 100)

Completing the circle of main entrances is the King Abdullah Gate, designated as Gate 100. Added during the expansions initiated under King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz’s reign, this relatively newer addition is distinguished by its contemporary yet harmonious architectural style.

Located on the northeastern quadrant of the mosque, this gate serves as a major access point for pilgrims staying in the rapidly developing Al-Shamiyyah district. The gate’s design incorporates advanced cooling systems and crowd management features, reflecting the kingdom’s commitment to enhancing the pilgrim experience through modern innovations.

For first-time visitors to Masjid Al Haram, identifying these main gates can substantially improve navigation around the vast complex. Pilgrims are advised to use these gates as reference points when planning meeting locations or determining exit strategies after prayers. The numbering system (1, 45, 62, 79, and 100) follows a counterclockwise sequence around the mosque, helping visitors maintain their bearings.