UK-based Foster + Partners revealed that it won the chance to build a new luxury hotel and serviced apartments located at the heart of Makkah, Saudi Arabia, on January 30.

“We are absolutely delighted to have won the competition. Makkah is one of the most unique cities in the world. As the home of the Holy Kaaba – the holiest site in Islam – it presents a special challenge and honour for any developer and architect,”stated Head of Studio and Senior Executive Partner Luke Fox .

According to an official statement, “Our design sets out to create an innovative building form that will be respectful to the scale and importance of the Grand Mosque,” he added.

According to the company, the new mixed-use development will create a new gateway along the route to the Grand Mosque for pilgrims from the world over.