Haramain Services: Smart umbrellas and innovative cooling for the comfort of pilgrims
Continuous efforts to enhance the comfort of pilgrims
In its tireless pursuit of providing the highest quality services to visitors of the Two Holy Mosques, the General Authority for the Care of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque is racing against time to implement the latest engineering and smart technologies. These efforts aim to transform the courtyards of the Two Holy Mosques into a safe and comfortable environment, ensuring the highest levels of comfort and smooth flow for millions of pilgrims, Umrah performers, and visitors throughout the year, with their safety at the forefront of its operational priorities.
Historical background: A long-standing legacy of care and development
The care given to the Two Holy Mosques is not a recent development, but rather an extension of a great historical legacy that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has prioritized since its founding. Over the decades, the Two Holy Mosques have witnessed the largest expansion projects in history, which have not only increased their capacity but have also included a radical development of their infrastructure and services. Current efforts are part of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which aims to enhance the experience of pilgrims and enable a greater number of Muslims to perform their rituals with ease and peace of mind.
Climate engineering and smart solutions to address challenges
To address climate challenges, particularly during peak hours and periods of high temperatures, the Authority has developed effective solutions to mitigate the effects of climate change. Extensive networks of misting fans have been installed and are operational, significantly reducing temperatures and improving air quality in the open courtyards. At the Prophet's Mosque, the brilliance of engineering is exemplified by the giant smart umbrellas that cover its courtyards. These umbrellas open and close automatically according to weather conditions, providing ample shade and protecting worshippers from the sun's rays. At night, they transform into sources of light, enhancing the beauty and spirituality of the place.
Facilitating movement and providing integrated humanitarian services
To ensure the smooth flow of millions of visitors and prevent congestion, the authority meticulously designed pedestrian walkways, supported by multilingual signage and intelligent navigation systems. A profound sense of community is evident in the provision of dedicated pathways and services for the elderly and people with disabilities, including handcarts and electric golf carts, along with specialized field teams offering immediate support and assistance, guaranteeing their safe and comfortable access to their destinations without difficulty.
Environmental sustainability and preventative health around the clock
The meticulous attention to detail is complemented by an advanced, eco-friendly LED lighting system, managed through intelligent control systems to highlight the unique architectural aesthetics and provide safe and comfortable illumination. On the health and safety front, cleaning and sanitization teams work around the clock, using state-of-the-art equipment to wash and disinfect the courtyards and floors. Simultaneously, chilled Zamzam water is provided at carefully distributed drinking points throughout the Two Holy Mosques, ensuring a clean and healthy environment befitting the sanctity of the place.
