Al-Hatim is the area between the door of the Kaaba and the Black Stone. It is the place where Allah سبحانه وتعالى, Mighty and Majestic, accepted Adam's repentance, peace be upon him. After Al-Hatim, the next most virtuous place for prayer is inside the Hijr (area enclosed by the semi-circular wall). Following that, it is the space between the Iraqi Corner and the door of the Kaaba, which was the original location of the Station of Ibrahim. Next is the current location of the Station of Ibrahim, and the closer to the House (Kaaba), the better. However, it is obligatory to pray the two Rak'ahs of Tawaf al-Nisa and other related prayers specifically behind the Station of Ibrahim in its current location.
Commentary #4