Grand Mosque facilities: New pathways for the elderly and people with disabilities
In a move aimed at enhancing services for pilgrims to the Grand Mosque in Mecca, the General Authority for the Care of the Two Holy Mosques announced the allocation of specific, equipped pathways to serve the elderly and people with disabilities. This initiative is part of a comprehensive strategy to facilitate the performance of rituals and provide a safe and comfortable worship environment, ensuring the highest standards of peace and tranquility for pilgrims from groups requiring special care.
New route locations and strategic distribution
The authority explained that the new routes were carefully distributed based on field studies of crowd density and traffic flow within the Grand Mosque. These vital locations include the Ajyad Bridge, the Marwa elevators, the Arqam Bridge, and the Arqam elevators . This distribution aims to facilitate entry and exit, ensure smooth movement between the different levels of the Grand Mosque, and significantly reduce the physical hardship that the elderly and people with disabilities might face amidst the crowds, thus preventing them from being jostled during peak times.
Development context and the Kingdom's Vision 2030
This step cannot be separated from the broader context of the great renaissance witnessed by the Two Holy Mosques during the prosperous Saudi era. Through its Vision 2030, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia places serving the pilgrims at the forefront of its priorities, aiming to accommodate millions of Umrah and Hajj pilgrims annually. This ambitious goal requires flexible infrastructure and advanced logistical services that take into account the diversity of pilgrims and Umrah performers. The facilities provided for people with disabilities and the elderly are an integral part of the "Serving the Guests of God" program, which seeks to enrich the religious and cultural experience of visitors.
The human and social importance of service
These pathways are of paramount importance, extending far beyond mere organization. They reflect a humanitarian and ethical commitment to enabling all Muslims, regardless of their physical abilities, to perform their rituals with dignity and ease. Designating separate pathways reduces the risk of accidents and falls, and provides a comfortable psychological environment for pilgrims and their families. Furthermore, these services align with global standards for universal accessibility, making the Grand Mosque a model for crowd management and accessible services in holy sites.
Utilize digital and guidance services
In closing, the General Authority for the Care of the Two Holy Mosques urged all visitors and pilgrims to utilize the "Spatial Guidance Guide." This guide provides maps and precise information regarding the locations of designated pathways, elevators, and other support services such as wheelchairs and equipped restrooms. Adhering to these pathways and guidelines contributes to organizing crowd flow and alleviating pressure on main corridors, thus benefiting all worshippers and pilgrims.
