Hotel in the Arab Mecca by Norman Foster

The London studio of Norman Foster won the competition for a luxury hotel with a guesthouse in the birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad. During the month-long pilgrimage of Hajj, up to three million Muslims visit Mecca, located in the western part of Saudi Arabia, which places high demands on short-term accommodation. The land where Foster's winning project is to be built is located in the very center of Mecca, on the axis between the Haramain high-speed train station and the Ka‘ba sanctuary. The site, owned by one of the largest real estate companies in the Middle East, Jabal Omar Development Company, lies directly on the route of Islamic pilgrims. For the wealthiest among them, a luxury five-star hotel will be provided. However, since these journeys are associated with faith, the architects call their design “a hotel with modesty.” The entire complex turns towards the sacred place, incorporating elements from traditional Arab architecture and the density of urban development. The tiered arranged elements correspond in scale to the significance of the surroundings. Each hotel room will have its own place for private prayer with a direct view of the sacred mosque.