A guide system for the Two Holy Mosques during Ramadan 1447 AH in 8 languages
As part of early and intensive preparations for the holy month of Ramadan 1447 AH, the General Authority for the Care of the Two Holy Mosques announced the launch of a comprehensive and advanced guidance system aimed at facilitating the movement of pilgrims and enriching their spiritual experience. This step comes in response to expectations of millions of Umrah pilgrims and worshippers, necessitating the highest levels of operational and service readiness to ensure smooth movement and the performance of rituals with ease and convenience.
A developmental vision to serve the guests of God
These efforts fall within the broader context of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's commitment to serving the Two Holy Mosques, and are in line with the objectives of Vision 2030, which aims to increase the capacity for pilgrims and improve the quality of services provided to them. Managing and directing crowds within the Two Holy Mosques and their courtyards is one of the greatest operational challenges. Therefore, developing the guidance system is not merely an organizational measure, but a fundamental pillar of the security and safety system, as proper guidance contributes to reducing overcrowding and preventing congestion in corridors and prayer areas.
Modern technologies and multiple languages
The Authority has kept pace with technological advancements by integrating smart solutions into its guidance system. It has issued a comprehensive guide translated into eight languages to ensure information reaches the widest possible audience of non-Arabic speaking visitors. The guide utilizes a global color-coding system and interactive maps supported by QR codes, enabling visitors to accurately locate themselves and access essential services and prayer areas using their smartphones.
Strengthening infrastructure with numbers
Regarding field preparations, the Authority is currently working to enhance the infrastructure of the guidance system by supplying 60 modern directional stands, distributed as 40 in the Grand Mosque and 20 in the Prophet's Mosque. The extensive project also includes the supply of 350 new directional signs, bringing the total number of signs in the Two Holy Mosques to 2,731. This strategic placement of signs ensures coverage of all entrances, exits, and outer courtyards, providing a clear visual network to guide visitors from arrival to departure.
Field teams: A human touch in guidance
Believing that technology cannot replace direct human interaction, the Authority launched the "Pedestrian Teams" service for field guidance. These teams specialize in providing direct guidance to visitors in high-traffic areas, with particular attention to the elderly and people with disabilities. These trained personnel guide visitors to safe routes and designated facilities, reflecting the values of hospitality and care befitting the sanctity of the place and time, and ensuring a safe and reassuring spiritual experience for all.
