Developing the Prince Mohammed bin Salman axis to serve the pilgrims
The Holy Capital Municipality continues its diligent efforts in implementing the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Axis Development Project (Makkah-Jeddah Expressway), as part of its comprehensive development plan to improve the entrances to Makkah and enhance its visual and urban landscape. This pioneering project aims to support the city's architectural identity and elevate its aesthetic appeal, reflecting the status of the Holy Capital and aligning with quality of life objectives, thus directly contributing to improving the Hajj experience and serving pilgrims during various seasons.
The strategic importance of the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Axis Development Project
The axis stretches for 16 kilometers, starting from Zamzam Square and ending at its intersection with Al-Shumaisi Bridge. This vital artery connects to several main roads, most notably the Third and Fourth Ring Roads. It serves a wide range of residential, commercial, hotel, and service uses, and is a bustling and vibrant commercial hub. It also forms one of the main routes leading to Mecca during the Hajj season, making the development of the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Axis an urgent necessity to accommodate the increasing traffic volume and facilitate the movement of pilgrims.
The historic gateway to Mecca and the Kingdom's future vision
Historically, the Makkah-Jeddah Expressway is the main and most important western gateway to the Holy City. For decades, this road has been the primary route for millions of pilgrims arriving through Jeddah's air and sea ports. With the launch of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, the urgent need arose to modernize this historic gateway to align with the Vision's ambitious goals, which aim to host millions of Muslims annually and facilitate their spiritual journey. Transforming this road into a modern urban model reflects the Kingdom's commitment to providing the best services from the moment pilgrims arrive in the Holy Land.
Local and international impact of infrastructure upgrades
The importance of this project extends beyond its aesthetic appeal, with its anticipated impact encompassing broad local and international dimensions. Locally, the project will alleviate traffic congestion and facilitate the movement of Makkah's residents and visitors, while also creating a healthy and sustainable urban environment. Regionally and internationally, this development sends a clear message to the entire Muslim world about the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's exceptional ability to manage crowds and provide world-class infrastructure, further enhancing the positive image of the Kingdom's tremendous efforts in serving the Two Holy Mosques.
Details of the operational phases and requirements for the Hajj season
To ensure efficient operation, the project was implemented in three integrated operational phases. The first phase (from Al-Dawariq Square to the Third Ring Road) and the second phase (from the Third Ring Road to the Fourth Ring Road) both reached 100% completion. The third phase (from the Fourth Ring Road to Prince Nayef Street) has reached 95% completion, reflecting advanced readiness to support the requirements of the Hajj season and facilitate the smooth flow of buses and vehicles.
Afforestation, irrigation and sustainable cleaning efforts
As part of its afforestation, rehabilitation, and beautification efforts, the Municipality implemented several projects and improvements, including planting 4,900 trees of various species such as acacia, hollyhock, and coastal hollyhock, and planting over 46,450 shrubs of esparto grass and bougainvillea. Additionally, more than 860 Washingtonia palm trees were rehabilitated and planted. The work also encompassed irrigation, cleaning, ongoing maintenance, landscaping, and on-site interventions, all of which enhance operational efficiency and improve the overall urban landscape along the axis.
The Secretariat affirmed that these works are part of an integrated system concerned with humanizing roads, improving the visual landscape, developing the entrances to Mecca, supporting the urban identity and raising the level of aesthetics, in order to achieve a higher quality urban environment, enhance the Hajj experience, and strengthen the level of service provided to the guests of God during the season.
