Ajyad – The street near Masjid al-Haram: History, old photos, and hotels of Mecca
Ajyad Street is one of the most famous and ancient places in Mecca. Even in the 1960s, it was the main path connecting Masjid al-Haram with the southern quarters of the city. Today, Ajyad has transformed into a vibrant hotel district, where tradition and modernity meet at the foot of the Abraj Al Bait towers.
What Ajyad Street Looked Like in the 1960s
Before you is a rare photograph of Mecca from the 1960s. It features Ajyad Street, where there were no skyscrapers or shopping centers yet. Buses and old cars moved along it, passersby hurried to the mosque, and stone houses and shops stood around — the look of **old Mecca**, which existed long before modern architecture.
Name and Location
The correct name is **Ajyad (Arabic: أجياد)**. It is sometimes mistakenly pronounced as "Azhyad" or "Azhiyat". The street stretches for **1–2 kilometers** south of the *Masjid al-Haram* mosque and runs through the **Ajyad District** — one of the most densely populated and visited areas in Mecca.
Modern Ajyad: Hotels and Towers
Today, the street and its vicinity are home to **about 200–400 hotels**, including global brands such as *Swissôtel Makkah*, *Pullman Zamzam Makkah*, *Fairmont Clock Tower*, and others. Many of them offer a direct view of the Kaaba and instant access to the Haram.
The **Abraj Al Bait** complex now rises in place of the old houses — an architectural symbol of the new Mecca and a landmark visible for tens of kilometers. But despite the changes, Ajyad remains the *heart of the city's spiritual life*.
Read also on ZiyaraGo
- Haram Boundaries — where the sacred territory begins
- Meeqats of Saudi Arabia — a guide for pilgrims
- Top 10 places to visit in Saudi Arabia
FAQ — Frequently Asked Questions about Ajyad Street
1. What is Ajyad Street?
Ajyad is a historical street and district of Mecca, located near the Masjid al-Haram mosque. It is now home to the city's largest hotel complex.
2. How long is Ajyad Street?
The street's length is approximately 1–2 kilometers, starting at the mosque and extending towards the southern districts of Mecca.
3. How many hotels are in the Ajyad District?
According to booking sites, there are about 200–400 hotels located here, including the largest chains and budget accommodations for pilgrims.
4. What was located here before the construction of Abraj Al Bait?
Before the start of reconstruction in the 2000s, the area housed residential quarters, old hotels, and a market, typical of old Mecca.
5. Why is Ajyad important for pilgrims?
Its proximity to the Kaaba, comfortable hotels, and infrastructure make Ajyad one of the most popular areas for accommodation during Hajj and Umrah.
📸 Photo courtesy of Saudi Arabia Today
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