Makkah Clock Tower Museum

The Makkah Clock Tower Museum is a beacon for astronomy and space enthusiasts. It offers an engaging, interactive experience that allows visitors to explore the beauty of the universe, the wonders of the solar system, and the mechanics of timekeeping, along with a variety of unique activities suitable for all age groups. 

The museum was officially opened in Ramadan 1440 AH (2019 AD) by the Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Foundation (MiSK Charity). Since then, the Clock Tower Museum has become one of Saudi Arabia's most distinctive and famous landmarks, receiving numerous visitors daily from around the world. 

The museum is located in one of the seven towers of the Clock Tower Complex (formerly known as Abraj Al Bait), the third-tallest building in the world and the tallest clock tower ever built. Did you know that the giant clock atop the tower is among the largest in the world? With a diameter of 43 meters, it is visible from distances of up to several kilometers. The edges of the clock hands and numerals are adorned with a layer of gold, adding even more luxury to this architectural masterpiece.

Things to do at the Clock Tower Museum Mecca 

• Watch interactive displays that facilitate understanding of basic astronomical phenomena such as the position of the sun and moon, the dynamics of the Earth's rotation, and more.
• Review a documented overview of the history of astronomy and the importance of time in Islamic history and civilization.
• Take some souvenir photos from the top of the tower and enjoy the breathtaking view of the Grand Mosque and the Kaaba.
• Shop at the museum's gift shop, where you can pick out gifts from the distinctive exhibits of astronomy books, unique watch models, and more.

Essential information about the Clock Tower Museum Mecca:

Opening Hours: Daily from 2:00 PM to 11:00 PM

Location:  Top of the Makkah Clock Tower, within the Clock Towers Complex, next to the Grand Mosque, Mecca, Saudi Arabia

Ticket Price: 200 Saudi Riyals, and 100 Saudi Riyals for children.

Best time to visit Clock Tower Museum: Visit during the period following peak seasons such as Hajj season and Ramadan, and generally on regular days of the week. 

Traffic density:   Average congestion outside peak seasons and weekends.

How to Reach the Clock Tower Museum Mecca: 

• You can use the Haramain High-Speed ​​Railway, which departs from King Abdulaziz Airport Station to Makkah Station in 40 minutes. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to reach the Clock Tower Museum.
• You can use public buses within Mecca, which reach the area surrounding the Grand Mosque. You can then get off at the nearest bus stop to the Grand Mosque and then walk a short distance to reach the Clock Tower Museum.

Travel tips when visiting the Clock Tower Museum Mecca:

• Avoid peak times and heavy congestion, especially during Hajj season and Ramadan, and plan your visit in the morning.
• It is recommended to book tickets in advance online or at the points of sale in Abraj Al Bait Mall to avoid long queues.
• Wear appropriate, modest clothing when visiting the museum. 
• Check opening hours and ticket prices before visiting, as some details may change during different seasons.

FAQs about the Clock Tower Museum:

Q: How much is the entrance fee to the Clock Tower Museum?

A: The museum entrance ticket for a regular ticket is 200 Saudi Riyals, and for a children’s ticket it is 100 Saudi Riyals.

Q: What is in the Clock Tower Museum?

A: The museum includes four floors dedicated to different fields as follows: 

• First floor: This floor displays the story of the creation of the Mecca Clock, its features, and the techniques used to accurately determine time.
• Second floor: This floor displays human attempts to know and measure time using various tools, such as: water clocks, pendulums, and pocket watches.
• Third floor: This floor displays a wide variety of information on topics related to the characteristics of the sun, earth, and moon, such as: eclipses, solar activity, and the atmosphere.
• Fourth floor: This floor displays everything related to the universe in the vast expanse of space, such as: stars, galaxies, planets, the Milky Way, and many astronomical phenomena.

Q: How much does a night at the Clock Tower cost? 

A: The cost of accommodation at the Clock Tower Hotels in Makkah varies depending on several factors, including room type, view, booking time, and the tourist season during Umrah, Hajj, and vacations.