29/09/2026
Masjid al-Haram in 1965 | A glimpse of Makkah’s history. 🕋
This rare view takes us back to a time when the Holy Mosque looked very different from the Makkah we know today.
The first major Saudi expansion was initiated under King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud, following his direction to study and plan an expansion as the number of pilgrims continued to grow. The project was formally launched during the reign of King Saud bin Abdulaziz Al Saud in 1955. It brought major changes to Masjid -al-Haram, including the expansion of the Mataf, development of the Mas'a, additional floors, improvements around Zamzam and major structural works.
The work continued through the reigns of King Saud, King Faisal and King Khalid, with different phases of the expansion continuing for more than two decades. By its completion, the First Saudi Expansion had greatly increased the mosque's area and capacity for worshippers.
The project also involved Sheikh Muhammad bin Ladin, who is documented in historical accounts connected with the construction and restoration work during King Saud's reign.
From the Makkah of 1965 to the magnificent Haram we see today,, the history of the House of Allah continues to unfold.
Keywords:
Makkah 1965, Masjid al Haram history, old Makkah, historical Makkah, old Kaaba, Kaaba history, Hajj history, Makkah history, Masjid al Haram, Hajj Makkah, Umrah Makkah
