The Grand Mosque in Mecca: 40 electric vehicles and new pathways to serve the elderly

In a significant step aimed at enhancing services for pilgrims, the General Authority for the Care of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque announced the launch of a modern and integrated transportation system within the courtyards of the Grand Mosque in Mecca. This initiative includes the introduction of a new fleet of 40 electric vehicles, along with the allocation of safe and dedicated pathways to ensure easy access for the elderly and people with disabilities from public transport stations to the Holy Mosque.

A qualitative leap in logistics services at the Holy Mosque

This step comes in response to the increasing numbers of pilgrims and worshippers, and in line with the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which seeks to increase the capacity to serve the guests of God. The new fleet has been equipped for high efficiency, with 37 large-capacity electric vehicles, each accommodating 10 passengers. These vehicles operate through the Jarwal Tunnel, a vital artery connecting the areas surrounding the Grand Mosque, thus shortening distances and reducing physical exertion and hardship for visitors, especially during peak times and religious seasons.

Crowd movement engineering and safety standards

The efforts were not limited to providing wheelchairs; they also included meticulous engineering planning for crowd management. The authority established four completely separate field routes dedicated to transporting visitors via wheelchairs. This arrangement aims to separate pedestrian and wheelchair traffic, ensuring a smooth flow of entry and exit, reducing crowding that could impede movement, and thus providing a safe and secure environment for performing the rituals.

Special care for people with disabilities

To reinforce the principle of inclusive services, the new system includes the allocation of three electric vehicles, designed and engineered to meet the specific needs of people with disabilities. These vehicles are operated by highly trained field teams experienced in assisting this valued group, ensuring a comfortable and safe transportation experience that adheres to all international safety standards.

Human and operational impact

This development in the transportation system reflects the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's ongoing commitment to harnessing all available technological and human resources to serve pilgrims to the Two Holy Mosques. From a humanitarian perspective, this project enables the elderly to reach the Grand Mosque without the hardship of walking long distances, allowing them to dedicate themselves to worship and devotion. Operationally, these vehicles and pathways directly contribute to regulating crowd flow and reducing congestion in the vital areas surrounding the Grand Mosque, thus enhancing the spiritual and religious experience for visitors.