Makkah: The idea of establishing an astronomical observatory in Makkah represented one of the early scientific initiatives linked to serving moon sighting and determining the timing of religious observances. The history of the observatory's establishment, documented by the King Abdulaziz Foundation, dates back to 1366 AH (1947), when Sheikh Mohammed Abdul Razzaq Hamza, a teacher at the Grand Mosque and Dar Al-Hadith, proposed creating an astronomical observatory in Makkah dedicated to observing crescent moons and celestial bodies, driven by his passion for practical astronomy and his interest in developing observation tools at the time.

According to Saudi Press Agency, as King Saud bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, then Crown Prince, was preparing for a visit to the United States, the Sheikh submitted a letter explaining the need for modern astronomical equipment, including a theodolite and sextant, highlighting their importance in measuring celestial positions and accurately determining astronomical angles, as well as the high cost and difficulty of obtaining them.

The request received support and attention, and the relevant authorities were directed to secure the required equipment, which later arrived in Makkah as part of a shipment containing several advanced astronomical instruments of that era.

The observatory established its first headquarters atop Mount Abu Qubais, one of the most prominent locations overlooking the Grand Mosque, where astronomical observation and moon-sighting activities began, marking the start of organized astronomical work in Makkah.

With advances in modern observation technologies, the Makkah Observatory later moved to the Clock Tower, becoming one of the leading specialized astronomical observatories in the Islamic world. It is equipped with advanced telescopes and instruments for moon sighting, particularly the crescent moons of Ramadan and Shawwal, as well as for accurately determining prayer times.

The observatory reflects Saudi Arabia's continued commitment to astronomical sciences, serving the Two Holy Mosques and pilgrims, while supporting scientific efforts in moon observation and astronomical timing through modern technologies.