A smart system and foot patrols to enhance the guidance of pilgrims in Mecca
The General Authority for the Care of the Two Holy Mosques announced a pioneering development initiative aimed at enhancing the guidance of pilgrims within the Grand Mosque and its courtyards. This initiative involves activating a comprehensive smart system and deploying specially trained foot patrols to facilitate the movement of Umrah and Hajj pilgrims. This initiative reflects the ongoing commitment to improving the quality of services provided to visitors of the Grand Mosque, thereby enhancing the experience of movement and spatial guidance during peak religious seasons and providing a comfortable and safe spiritual environment.
Historical care of the holy sites and the development of services at the Two Holy Mosques
Since the founding of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, serving the Two Holy Mosques has received the utmost attention and care from its wise leadership. Historically, the mechanisms for guiding pilgrims have evolved from individual efforts and simple directional signs to sophisticated institutional systems that rely on the latest global technologies. This historical development reflects the Kingdom's unwavering commitment to harnessing all its material and human resources to serve Muslims from all corners of the earth. The Grand Mosque has witnessed major expansions accompanied by continuous modernization of its infrastructure and services to ensure the smooth and easy accommodation of the increasing numbers of pilgrims each year.
Developing the guidance system and reducing fragmentation rates
The authority explained that the new initiative aims to reduce the rate of confusion and difficulty accessing places among visitors to only 8% during Ramadan 1447 AH. The guidance system has already proven successful, having benefited more than 639,770 people, directly contributing to easier access to various locations and services within the Grand Mosque and its outer courtyards. The operational plan relies on enhancing the efficiency of the 15 strategically located fixed guidance points, in addition to a significant expansion in the use of foot patrols comprising 40 field personnel. This deployment allows for greater flexibility in directing and guiding visitors to their destinations, especially during peak times and in areas of high crowd density.
As part of its ongoing expansion of services, the authority announced a plan to increase its specialized staff by adding 20 more personnel. This additional staffing will enhance field coverage and improve the efficiency of providing direct guidance in multiple languages, ensuring that visitors' needs are met with high efficiency and professionalism.
Regional and international impact in guiding pilgrims
The impact of these initiatives extends beyond the local level, encompassing a broad regional and international influence in guiding pilgrims. By presenting a globally recognized model for crowd management and directing millions within a specific geographical area, the Kingdom reaffirms its leadership in organizing major religious events. This excellence positively impacts the impressions of pilgrims returning to their home countries across the globe, enhancing the positive perception of Saudi services. Furthermore, the adoption of modern technologies facilitates coordination between international Islamic missions and relevant authorities, thereby increasing overall satisfaction and achieving a unique integration between local efforts and the international aspirations of Muslims.
Providing a seamless and secure experience through modern technologies
In addition to human efforts, the Authority is diligently studying the results of the pilot implementation of simultaneous translation devices during last Ramadan. This analysis aims to identify strengths and address challenges in preparation for the wider adoption and development of these devices during the 1447 AH Hajj season. This technological step will support effective communication with visitors of various nationalities and languages. This comprehensive initiative is part of the Authority's ongoing development services, emphasizing the provision of a seamless and secure experience and fulfilling the objectives of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which places serving the Two Holy Mosques and their visitors at the forefront of its strategic priorities.
