When to Perform Tawaf: Reading the Crowds

The mataf is calmest roughly 1am to 4am and in the mid-morning lull; busiest in the hour around each prayer and all of Friday. The ground floor is closest to the Kaaba and most crowded — the roof is far calmer at three to four times the walking distance, often a worthwhile trade for elderly pilgrims. Agree a meeting point before you start.

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