The focal point for every Muslim performing hajj, the Grand Mosque encompasses 356,800 sq metres and can accommodate as many as 820,000 worshippers within its confines and more than one million outside the perimeter, where worshippers can pray. The Kaaba is in the central courtyard. The mosque dates to the 7th century under the leadership of Caliph Omar bin Al Khattab, who expanded the structure to accommodate the growing number of pilgrims each year.
