Mecca Clock Tower Emits Green Light, Signalling the Approach of Hajj Peak

Green light radiated from the peak of the Mecca Clock Tower as the Maghrib call to prayer echoed on Sunday (17/5) Saudi Arabian time. The light display visible from the Masjidil Haram area serves as a marker for the beginning of the month of Zulhijah 1447 Hijriah, signalling that the peak of the Hajj pilgrimage is approaching.

Saudi Arabian authorities utilise the lighting system of the iconic clock tower as an official marker for the change of the Hijri month. This year, the green light marks the arrival of 1 Zulhijah 1447 H, which initiates the critical phase of the Hajj pilgrimage operations.

The evening atmosphere in Mecca appeared transformed as the green light ignited from the tower’s summit. In the Hijri calendar, a new day begins at sunset, meaning the indicator lights are switched on in conjunction with Maghrib.

As darkness fell, the green light became increasingly prominent, drawing the attention of pilgrims around Masjidil Haram. The glow was also visible from the windows of hotels where pilgrims, including those from the KBIHU Daarul Istiqomah group in the Misfalah area of Mecca, were staying.

The tradition of emitting green light from the peak of the Zamzam Tower is routinely performed by Saudi Arabia at the start of every Hijri month. Many pilgrims were seen capturing the moment on their mobile phones, while others paused their activities in the mosque courtyard to observe the light illuminating the Holy City’s sky. Some pilgrims were heard reciting Takbir, while others chanted the Talbiyah.

The arrival of 1 Zulhijah also marks the beginning of the countdown to the peak phase of Hajj at Armuzna, which includes the series of rituals at Arafah, Muzdalifah, and Mina. Consequently, the Hajj Organising Committee (PPIH) in Saudi Arabia continues to remind pilgrims to maintain their physical condition ahead of the mass movement to Armuzna. Pilgrims are advised to reduce strenuous activities, such as travelling long distances from their accommodation hotels.

Physical fitness is considered vital as pilgrims will undergo a series of rituals in the coming days that require high stamina, particularly during the Wukuf at Arafah and the Mabit at Mina. All preparations are now focused on welcoming the movement of pilgrims towards Armuzna, which is scheduled to begin on 8 Zulhijah, corresponding to 25 May 2026.