Services for the elderly and people with disabilities at the Prophet's Mosque: Comprehensive care
The General Authority for the Care of the Two Holy Mosques pays exceptional attention to the pilgrims, with services for the elderly and people with disabilities at the Prophet's Mosque being a top priority to ensure they can perform their religious duties in an atmosphere of ease and tranquility. The Authority works diligently, especially during religious seasons such as the holy month of Ramadan, to dedicate all available human and technological resources to serving this valued group.
These tireless efforts are an extension of the historical legacy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in serving the Two Holy Mosques, which has developed significantly under the Kingdom’s Vision 2030. Attention is no longer limited to urban expansions, but has included humanizing services and improving the visitor experience, reflecting a firm commitment to enabling all Muslims, regardless of their physical abilities, to access the Prophet’s Mosque with ease and convenience.
Integration of services for the elderly and people with disabilities at the Prophet's Mosque
In its efforts to provide an inclusive environment, the Authority has designated accessible and equipped prayer areas near the main entrances to facilitate access and avoid overcrowding. The Authority has also considered the needs of the hearing and visually impaired, allocating a space for the deaf on the western roof near Gate 6, where simultaneous sign language interpretation of the Friday sermon is provided. Furthermore, copies of the Quran printed in Braille have been distributed throughout the mosque to enable blind worshippers to easily recite the Holy Quran.
These services carry profound significance that transcends mere logistics; they reflect the Kingdom's humanitarian message to the Islamic world and underscore the values of equality and inclusion in Islam. Providing such exceptional care leaves a profoundly positive impact on visitors from all corners of the globe and enhances the Kingdom's civilized image as a custodian of Islamic holy sites and a servant to those who visit them.
Advanced transportation system and field equipment
The authority has enhanced its mobility services by providing a fleet of electric vehicles and wheelchairs to facilitate movement within the corridors and plazas. Free vehicle rental is available at exits 309 and 343, and special ramps have been installed at entrances and facilities to facilitate the movement of wheelchair users, ensuring their independence.
Regarding service facilities, drinking water stations have been equipped with specially designed, height-adjustable platforms for wheelchair users, facilitating their access to the blessed Zamzam water. Additionally, 62 fully equipped restrooms have been designated for the elderly and people with disabilities in both the men's and women's facilities, ensuring their needs are met with complete privacy and comfort.
Infrastructure that supports smooth operation
The Prophet's Mosque boasts a massive infrastructure supporting these services, including 180 elevators and 156 escalators strategically located throughout the courtyards and facilities, in addition to 24 staircases within the mosque itself. These facilities directly contribute to smooth traffic flow and crowd management, especially during peak times, reflecting the General Presidency for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques' strategy to enhance services for pilgrims and enable them to perform their rituals in a safe and well-equipped environment.
