Interior Ministry guidelines for Umrah pilgrims during Ramadan 1447: Bicycles banned and transportation regulated

As part of its extensive preparations for the holy month of Ramadan 1447 AH, the Saudi Ministry of Interior has issued a comprehensive guide aimed at ensuring the safety and security of pilgrims and worshippers, and facilitating their easy and peaceful access to the Grand Mosque. This guide is part of the security and organizational plans adopted annually by the Kingdom to manage the millions of pilgrims who flock to the holy city during this blessed month.

The importance of organization during peak seasons

This guide is of paramount importance given the expected surge in pilgrims during Ramadan, the peak of the annual Umrah season. Through these guidelines, the relevant authorities aim to achieve a balance between smooth traffic flow and pedestrian density, ensuring the performance of rituals in a safe and spiritually enriching environment, in line with the Kingdom's Vision 2030 goals of increasing capacity and enhancing services provided to pilgrims.

Guide details: Transportation and access

The guide included detailed explanations of the available transportation options for reaching the Holy Mosque in Mecca, with the ministry focusing on diversifying means to alleviate congestion:

• Public and shuttle transport: The guide urged pilgrims to use public transport buses and shuttle stations that have been allocated safe and fast routes, thus reducing the congestion of private vehicles in the central area.
• Haramain Railway: Highlighting the role of the railway as a central and rapid means of transportation for those coming from Jeddah and Medina.
• Private vehicles and parking: The guide specifies the locations of parking areas at the entrances to Mecca, emphasizing the need to park cars in designated areas and complete the journey via designated buses.
• Walking: The guide includes instructions for pedestrians to ensure their safety while walking on the designated paths leading to the sanctuary.

Ban on motorcycles and bicycles

One of the most important points emphasized in the guide to ensure pedestrian safety is the prohibition of motorcycles and bicycles in crowded areas and on roads leading to the Grand Mosque. This prohibition aims to prevent accidents that could result from bicycles interfering with large crowds of people, and to ensure the smooth flow of pedestrian traffic without obstruction.

Instructional and technical signs

The Ministry explained that the guide includes explanations of the directional signs distributed along the roads and in the courtyards surrounding the Grand Mosque. These signs, designed in multiple languages, guide pilgrims to the gates, prayer areas, and transportation hubs. The Ministry urges all visitors to the Grand Mosque to adhere to these instructions and cooperate with security personnel to ensure everyone's safety, emphasizing that following the established procedures is the best way to perform Umrah and prayers with devotion and tranquility.