The Grand Mosque in Mecca is witnessing an unprecedented transformation in the level of services provided to its visitors, as human efforts are combined with modern technologies to create an integrated system aimed at facilitating the performance of rituals. These efforts are part of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's commitment and its ambitious Vision 2030, which places serving the pilgrims at the forefront of its priorities, harnessing all available material and human resources to ensure a safe and convenient spiritual experience.
Scenes reflecting the magnitude of the work
To highlight this tireless effort, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, in cooperation with the General Authority for the Care of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque, released a documentary video showcasing the scale of daily operations within the Grand Mosque in Mecca. The video emphasizes the mosque's vast area, exceeding 1.8 million square meters, and its capacity to accommodate more than 2.5 million worshippers, necessitating a high level of logistical and security preparedness to ensure the smooth flow of movement within the corridors and courtyards.
Technology in the service of crowd management
Crowd management at the Grand Mosque in Mecca is no longer solely reliant on traditional methods; technology has become a cornerstone of the process. The video illustrates the role of digital screens distributed throughout the mosque and its courtyards, which act as a smart guide displaying real-time crowd levels on each floor. This technology allows pilgrims and worshippers to choose less congested routes, contributing to a more balanced distribution of people and reducing overcrowding at gates and main passageways.
Comprehensive facilities for people with disabilities
The service system pays special attention to people with disabilities and the elderly, to ensure they can perform the rituals without hardship. These services include:
- Designating gates equipped with precise geometric slopes.
- Providing clear, guided routes that lead them to the designated prayer areas.
- The installation of escalators and spacious elevators allows easy access to the various levels of the Grand Mosque.
Mobility and Logistics Services
Regarding transportation services, the relevant authorities presented a variety of options, including wheelchairs and modern electric vehicles specifically designed for Tawaf and Sa'i, which can be booked in advance through the authority's website here . The system also addressed complementary aspects of the rituals, providing free shaving carts at the exit gates of the Sa'i area, making it easier for pilgrims to exit their Ihram without leaving the central area.
Support and guidance in the languages of the world
To ensure that every visitor receives accurate information, regardless of their language, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has provided advanced support and guidance channels, including a unified call center operating 24/7 via the number 1966. In addition, comprehensive awareness guides about the Grand Mosque are available in 16 international languages and can be accessed here , helping visitors plan their spiritual journey effectively and understand their rights and responsibilities.
This integrated system of services, from 24-hour baggage storage centers to surrounding service facilities such as restaurants and cafes, reflects the Kingdom’s firm commitment to providing the utmost comfort and peace of mind to the pilgrims from the moment they arrive until they leave the Holy Land.
