To gain a better understanding of the leaders and their position within the tribe of Koraysh during these early years of Islam we should know the roles of these prominent people, because each one was destined to play an important role in one way or another in the years that followed: The custodianship of the Ka'ba and keeper of its keys was Othman, Talha's son, whilst the family entrusted to look after the welfare of the pilgrims was Nuwfal, under the direction of Harith, Amir's son, whereas it was the responsibility of Abbas to provide them with water.

The advisor to the Koraysh was Yazid, Rabi'a Al Aswad's son from the tribe of Asad. However, when the need came for an arbitrator, Abu Bakr was called upon. The chief of the tribe of Ummaya was Abu Sufyan, who was also its standard bearer. During times of war, Walid, Mughira's son from the tribe of Makhzum was responsible for organizing camp affairs. He also commanded the cavalry, however, when Harb, Ummaya's son died, Abu Sufyan, was thought not be sufficiently proficient to assume the command, so the position was given to Waleed who was also the uncle of the Abu Lahab, also known as Abu Jahl.

Omar from the Koraysh tribe of Adi was the liaison officer. He would also decided upon important issues such as lineage.

Superstition was rampant, and the chief interpreter of omens was Safwan, another son of Ummaya. The office of treasurer was administered by Harith, Kais' son from the tribe of Sahm. The chieftain of the tribe of Hashim was Abu Talib, later to be succeeded by the infamous Abu Lahab.

It is important to remember that the tribes of Hashim and Ummaya were equally prominent, for many years they had been jealous of one another and acute rivalry existed between them .