Makkah: Al-Hajun, one of the oldest urban areas in Makkah closely tied to its religious and social history, has for centuries developed as an extension of the city adjacent to the Grand Mosque, encompassing prominent historical landmarks, most notably Al-Mualla Cemetery, while also being directly associated with the life of the Prophet Muhammad and key events from the early Islamic era.
According to Saudi Press Agency, Al-Hajun is located northeast of the Grand Mosque at the foothills of Mount Al-Hajun and is one of the earliest areas to emerge during the early expansion of Makkah's population. Its strategic position along ancient caravan routes and pilgrimage paths strengthened its role within the city's urban and commercial fabric.
Throughout its history, Al-Hajun has included several quarters and residential neighborhoods that shaped the character of traditional Makkah life, particularly Harat Al-Hajun, Shiab Al-Hajun, and Harat Al-Mualla surrounding the cemetery, as well as Harat Al-Bab and Harat Al Al-Sheikh. These neighborhoods were known for housing long-established Makkah families and for their closely built homes and narrow alleys, designed in harmony with the mountain's terrain and topography.
Historically, Al-Hajun was also known for hosting the tanning profession, one of Makkah's important craft and economic activities. Tanneries were located on the outskirts of the area and near valleys due to the nature of leather tanning, which required water, ventilation, and some distance from the Grand Mosque. These tanneries supplied the Makkah market with a variety of leather products, including traditional footwear and certain travel and pilgrimage items, before gradually declining with urban development and the relocation of craft activities outside residential areas.
Architecturally, the old buildings of Al-Hajun were characterized by the use of local stone and gypsum, as well as wooden mashrabiyas that provided natural ventilation and privacy, reflecting Makkah's architectural identity adapted to the environment and climate.
Like other historic areas in Makkah, Al-Hajun has witnessed rapid urban transformations in recent decades, alongside infrastructure development projects and efforts to enhance the urban landscape. Roads were organized, service networks upgraded, and informal settlements removed, all while preserving sites of religious and historical value.
Al-Hajun receives attention in Makkah's development programs aligned with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, particularly in improving quality of life, enhancing architectural identity, and highlighting historical sites near the Grand Mosque through organized cultural and knowledge-based routes.