Silami Okaz/Saudi Gazette MAKKAH — Hundreds of engineers and laborers are working round-the-clock to install new heat-resistant marble tiles in the courtyards of the Grand Mosque to provide pilgrims and visitors with the ultimate in comfort. All marble tiles of the outside courtyards will be replaced with new Greek Thassos marble tiles that resist heat. These marble tiles are similar to the ones installed in Al-Mataf area inside the Grand Mosque. The installation of new marble tiles is being done meticulously so as not to disrupt the movement of pilgrims entering or exiting the Grand Mosque. The new marble floor tiles maintain the same temperature day and night, allowing visitors to walk barefoot in the afternoons without feeling any heat. Thassos marble absorbs humidity in the night and maintains its cool temperature even in hot weather. Engineers are also working on relocating the area from where the muezzin calls for prayers. It will now be near the Al-Safa Gate. The new area is provided with modern equipment and air-conditioners. Sources said that the new muezzin area will continue to be near Al-Safa Gate until after next Haj when the project of expanding Al-Tawaf area has been completed. __
