Major infrastructure and transport upgrades boost Hajj experience
The Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites significantly enhanced the pilgrim experience during Hajj by implementing advanced infrastructure projects, particularly in the energy and transportation sectors.
In a substantial investment exceeding SR3 billion ($800 million), the commission boosted electricity capacity in the holy sites by 95 percent and distributed more than 7 million cubic meters of water, ensuring robust essential services for pilgrims.
The commission also managed an integrated transportation system involving over 23,000 buses. It launched the General Center for Transport as a unified hub to streamline movement. This center spearheaded the public transportation plan for all stages of the Hajj, in collaboration with the Public Security. Dedicated frequency lanes for buses drastically reduced travel time to just 20 minutes.
In cooperation with the Ministry of Health and Kidana Development Company, the commission increased bed capacity in the holy sites by more than 60 percent and opened an emergency hospital. It also equipped 71 rapid intervention points for the Saudi Red Crescent Authority, shaded over 170,000 square meters of paths with rubber flooring, and planted 23,000 trees in Mina.
Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites CEO Saleh Al-Rasheed commended the tireless efforts of the wise leadership, which he said were instrumental in the success of this year's Hajj season. He also lauded the continuous cooperation and diligent work of all participating entities.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Arab News
7 hours ago
- Arab News
Exhibitions at Prophet's Mosque bring Islamic heritage to life
MADINAH: The corridors and courtyards of the Prophet's Mosque feature 'unique sites and exhibitions that enrich the visitor experience, offering historical and cultural insights that reflect Islamic heritage and Madinah's hospitality,' according to an article published by the Saudi Press Agency on Saturday. A key attraction is the Architectural Evolution of the Prophet's Mosque exhibition, located on the southern courtyard opposite exits 308 and 309, which uses interactive displays to highlight the mosque's architectural development. It is open daily from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Opposite exits 306 and 307 is the International Exhibition of the Prophet's Biography. Open from 4:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. daily, it offers 'a contemporary presentation of Prophet Muhammad's life and teachings.' The Rare Manuscripts exhibition in annex 204 of the southern courtyards, which is open from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., showcases 'historical manuscripts, documents, and inscriptions that trace the evolution of Islamic writing.' The mosque's library, at gate 10 on the western side, is open 24 hours a day and includes sections on manuscripts, rare books, audio archives, and art collections. Near Uthman Gate, the Manuscripts and Rare Books Department serves researchers and enthusiasts. It houses more than 4,000 original manuscripts, nearly 60,000 digital copies, 4,600 photocopies, and 450 different editions of the Qur'an. It operates in two shifts: 8 a.m.–noon and 4–8 p.m. 'Together, these exhibitions and centers enhance the cultural and educational value of visiting the Prophet's Mosque, offering pilgrims a more enriching experience,' the SPA stated.
Asharq Al-Awsat
7 hours ago
- Asharq Al-Awsat
Saudi Tourism Ministry Intensifies Inspection Efforts in Summer Tourist Destinations
The Saudi Ministry of Tourism has intensified its inspection efforts across several summer tourist destinations in the Kingdom, reported the Saudi Press Agency on Saturday. These inspections aim to ensure that hospitality facilities hold the necessary licenses from the ministry and comply with approved quality standards, coinciding with the launch of the Saudi Summer season. The inspection tours covered multiple regions and cities, including Aseer, Al-Baha, Taif, and Jeddah, over the past two months. The ministry's inspection teams conducted more than 2,800 visits to summer destinations. The visits assessed the quality of services provided, the availability of safety requirements, and cleanliness levels, while also confirming that facilities had obtained the necessary licenses to operate. The ministry emphasized to all hospitality establishments, including private facilities, the importance of delivering high-quality services and adhering to its approved regulations. It stressed that violators will face penalties, which may include fines of up to SAR1 million, closure of the facility, or both.
Arab News
7 hours ago
- Arab News
Where We Are Going Today: ‘Kimono' – Japanese cuisine in Riyadh
Kimono is not just another Japanese restaurant in the Kingdom's capital but a bold reinterpretation of the cuisine through a Saudi lens. Since its launch in 2018, Kimono has blended culinary precision with casual, modern street-style vibes, offering dishes that are as creative as they are comforting. Beef tacos were a standout: tenderloin wrapped in crunchy shells, coated with a gochujang glaze and topped with a tropical mango-pineapple salsa. The result is a culinary fusion that surprises and works. The kimono crab salad was equally refreshing, full of texture from the tempura flakes and tobiko, with a touch of indulgence from the creamy house sauce and crispy potato chips. Shrimp tempura was served golden and light, with a sweet-spicy ginger dip that added balance. The gyoza shrimp dumplings were delicate, juicy, and paired perfectly with a signature soy-based sauce. Maki rolls and double crab were both flavorful standouts, rich in texture and layered taste. The avocado craze roll brought together creaminess and spice with precision, while the salmon sashimi offered a clean, fresh bite for those who prefer simplicity. For a warm, hearty option, try the the beef ramen, which is beautifully assembled with slices of grilled meat, vegetables, and a perfectly cooked soft-boiled egg -- a dish that warms you from the inside out. Kimono has mastered the art of reinventing Japanese cuisine, while staying approachable and trend-forward. There are four branches in the Kingdom, and the concept deserves to expand further. For more information, check their Instagram @
