Heavy rain swept across Makkah on Sunday, 13 September 2026, as worshippers gathered at the Grand Mosque for Maghrib prayer. Footage circulated by Saudi media outlets showed pilgrims continuing their prayers and supplications despite the downpour, with hail also reported in parts of the city.

The rainfall came as dark clouds gathered over the holy city, part of a wider spell of unstable weather that Saudi Arabia's National Centre for Meteorology (NCM) had warned would affect several regions of the Kingdom.

Scenes at the Grand Mosque

Video shared by Saudi outlets and official accounts showed worshippers praying around the Kaaba as water covered the marble courtyards of the Grand Mosque. Some raised their hands in supplication, while others continued their rituals undeterred by the rain. Further scenes showed worshippers walking through the rain-soaked courtyard, with the mosque's lights reflecting on the wet ground.

Rainfall in Makkah carries particular significance for many pilgrims and residents. In Saudi Arabia, heavy rain is often described in local media as "rains of goodness", reflecting the positive meaning traditionally associated with rainfall. Supplication during rain is well established in the Sunnah, and many worshippers took the opportunity to pray as the downpour continued.

A wider weather system across the Kingdom

According to the NCM, the rain over Makkah was part of a broader system. The centre had warned of continued thunderstorms across several regions from Wednesday, 9 September, through Monday, 14 September. Forecasters predicted moderate to heavy thunderstorms capable of producing flash floods across parts of Jazan, Asir, and Al-Baha, as well as the highlands of Makkah and Madinah.

The storms were expected to be accompanied by hail and strong winds capable of stirring up dust and sand. Fog was also forecast over parts of the highlands, along with areas of Najran and the southern Eastern Province. Makkah and Madinah were among the regions expected to experience thunderstorms, strong winds, and blowing dust, while Jeddah and Najran were also forecast to see thunderclouds and reduced visibility.

Despite the rain, temperatures remained high across the Kingdom. Makkah was forecast to reach 42 degrees Celsius, while Madinah and Dammam were expected to record highs of 44 degrees Celsius, underlining the sharp contrast between sudden storms and the region's persistent late-summer heat.

What it means for pilgrims performing Umrah

The weather arrives during the ongoing Umrah season, when pilgrims from around the world visit the Grand Mosque. Sudden rain can make marble surfaces slippery and cause temporary pooling of water in open courtyards, while the accompanying heat and humidity add to the physical demands of performing rituals such as Tawaf and Sa'i.

Pilgrims are reminded that rituals continue during rain, and that many scholars regard supplication during rainfall as a blessed time to make du'a. At the same time, caution is warranted given the risk of slips and, in low-lying areas outside the mosque, localised flooding.

Practical tips for pilgrims in changing weather

  • Watch your footing. Wet marble becomes slippery. Walk carefully during Tawaf and Sa'i, and take extra care on ramps and stairways.
  • Check the forecast. Follow updates from the National Centre for Meteorology before setting out, especially if travelling between Makkah, Madinah, or Jeddah.
  • Dress for both extremes. Temperatures can remain high even during rain, so stay hydrated while keeping essential documents protected from the wet.
  • Seize the moment for du'a. Rainfall is a recommended time for supplication. Many pilgrims use it to pray for themselves and their families.
  • Avoid low-lying areas during downpours. Flash flooding can affect valleys and streets outside the mosque precinct, so remain in safe, sheltered locations until heavy rain passes.

Authorities routinely deploy teams to clear water and maintain safety at the Grand Mosque during rainfall, and pilgrims are advised to follow the guidance of on-site staff and official announcements.