Historical context and ongoing interest in the Holy City
Since the unification of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the wise leadership has given exceptional attention to developing the infrastructure of Mecca and the Holy Sites. During the prosperous reign of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz, and his Crown Prince, these efforts have intensified to align with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, specifically the "Guests of God Service Program," which aims to facilitate the hosting of more Umrah and Hajj pilgrims and provide high-quality services that enrich their religious and cultural experience. In this context, attention to the main entrances to Mecca is a top priority, as they are the first visual impression for millions of Muslims arriving from all corners of the earth.
Details of the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Axis Development Project
The Holy Capital Municipality continues its diligent efforts to implement the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Axis Development Project (Makkah-Jeddah Expressway), as part of its comprehensive development plan to improve access to Makkah. This strategic project aims to enhance the visual and urban landscape, support Islamic and local architectural identity, and elevate aesthetics to reflect the great status of the Holy Capital. The project also aligns with the objectives of the Quality of Life Program and directly contributes to improving the Hajj experience and facilitating the movement of pilgrims during peak seasons.
This vital axis stretches for 16 kilometers, beginning at Zamzam Square and extending to its intersection with Al-Shumaisi Bridge. The road connects to several major traffic arteries, most notably the Third and Fourth Ring Roads. It serves a wide geographical area encompassing residential, commercial, hotel, and service uses, making it a bustling and vital commercial hub and one of the main routes leading to the Grand Mosque.
Expected impact: locally, regionally, and internationally
This project holds immense importance that extends far beyond the local level. Locally, it contributes to alleviating traffic congestion, enhancing the economic and real estate value of the surrounding areas, and providing a healthy and safe environment for residents. Regionally and internationally, the development of the western entrance to Mecca reflects the Kingdom's exceptional ability to manage crowds and plan smart and sustainable cities, presenting a distinguished and civilized image befitting the Kingdom's status as the Qibla of Muslims, thus leaving a profound and positive impact on the pilgrims and Umrah performers traversing this vital route.
Landscaping and preparations for the Hajj season
In line with the goals of the "Saudi Green Initiative," the municipality implemented a package of high-quality environmental improvements, including planting 4,900 trees of species adapted to the local environment, such as acacia, hollyhock, and coastal mallow. More than 46,450 shrubs of esparto grass and bougainvillea were also planted, along with the rehabilitation and planting of more than 860 Washingtonia palm trees, enhancing the area's aesthetic appeal and mitigating the effects of high temperatures.
The project was implemented in three integrated operational phases to ensure full readiness for the Hajj season. The first phase (from Al-Dawarq Square to the Third Ring Road) and the second phase (from the Third Ring Road to the Fourth Ring Road) were both 100% complete, while the third phase (from the Fourth Ring Road to Prince Nayef Street) reached 95% completion. These achievements are accompanied by ongoing irrigation, cleaning, and field maintenance to ensure continued operational efficiency and the provision of the best possible services to the pilgrims.
