Foster + Partners has won the prestigious competition to design a new luxury hotel and serviced apartments in the heart of Makkah.
Inspired by traditional Arab architecture, the mixed-use project by Jabal Omar Development Co. will create a new gateway along the route to the Grand Mosque for pilgrims from the world over, the UK-based architect said in a statement.
Luke Fox, Head of Studio and Senior Executive Partner, Foster + Partners who attended the ceremony said: Makkah is one of the most unique cities in the world. As the home of the Holy Kaaba – the holiest site in Islam – it presents a special challenge and honour for any developer and architect.
Our design sets out to create an innovative building form that will be respectful to the scale and importance of the Grand Mosque. Our endeavour has been to make the experience special and appropriate to its unique location.
The scheme addresses the shortage of accommodation in Makkah in response to the rapid growth in visitor numbers.
Located on the axis between the new Haramain High-speed Rail Station and the Grand Mosque, the site also forms a key part of the pilgrims journey towards the Holy Kaaba.