Zamzam Well: Symbol of Divine Mercy, Sanctuary for Pilgrims and Worshippers, Cherished by Muslims Worldwide
- May 25
- 2 min read
MAKKAH, May 25 (Saudi Arabia Breaking News) — Zamzam Well, one of the most significant landmarks of the Grand Mosque, remains closely linked to the Hajj and Umrah experience for millions of Muslims.
Located within the Mataf area of the Grand Mosque, the well extends to a depth of 30 meters. Its structure includes 12.8 meters of built depth and 17.2 meters carved into mountain rock, with a diameter ranging from 1.5 meters to 2.5 meters depending on depth.
The history of Zamzam Well dates back to the time of Prophet Ismail. According to Islamic tradition, Prophet Ibrahim left Hagar and her son Ismail in a barren valley without vegetation or water.
As Hagar moved between Safa and Marwa in search of water for her infant son, Angel Gabriel struck the ground, and the waters of Zamzam emerged. The well later became a symbol of mercy and a central source for pilgrims and worshippers visiting the Grand Mosque.
Zamzam Well has undergone continuous care and maintenance over the centuries. In 1373 AH, King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud modernized the well by installing advanced pumps and connecting reservoirs to 12 taps around the well, easing water extraction.
In 1382 AH, during the reign of King Saud, buildings surrounding the well were removed as part of the Mataf expansion. The well was later moved to a basement beneath the Mataf, replacing the use of buckets with taps.
In 1399 AH, King Khalid ordered a major cleaning operation for Zamzam Well using advanced methods and experienced divers. The operation became one of the largest cleaning efforts in the well’s history.
In 1424 AH, during the reign of King Fahd, studies on the Grand Mosque recommended covering the well and sealing its entrances to provide more space for tawaf and prayer.
During the reign of King Abdullah, a water purification station, bottling plant and distribution facility were established for Zamzam water, operating through automated systems for control, monitoring and storage.
Under Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, projects linked to Zamzam Well continued, including the final stages of sterilization, impurity removal and environmental examination around the well.
Zamzam water reaches visitors to the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque through several stages of purification and sterilization. Raw water is pumped from the well by two large pumps through stainless steel transmission lines.
