The introduction of advanced golf carts at the Grand Mosque in Mecca marks a significant stride towards enhancing accessibility and inclusivity for pilgrims, particularly the elderly and those with disabilities, during the revered Umrah season. Launched amid Ramadan, this initiative signifies Saudi Arabia’s commitment to ensuring all individuals can partake in the spiritual journey comfortably.
These smart golf carts are ingeniously designed to navigate the mosque’s rooftop, offering a seamless experience for passengers. Accessible from multiple entry points, including the Ajyad Escalator, King Abdulaziz Gate Escalators, and Bab Al Umrah Escalators, they operate during the evening hours, from 4:00 PM to 4:00 AM, aligning with the times when pilgrim traffic is typically high. With a capacity to accommodate up to 10 passengers each, these carts provide a convenient mode of transportation within the sacred precincts.
At a nominal cost of 25 riyals per person, inclusive of taxes, the service is economically accessible, ensuring affordability for pilgrims from diverse backgrounds. This initiative underscores the Kingdom’s dedication to fostering an inclusive environment, where individuals with special needs or mobility challenges can fully engage in the spiritual rites of Umrah.
The utilization of smart golf carts represents a culmination of years of planning and deliberation, with discussions dating back to 2014, under the directives of the late King Abdullah. Through leveraging modern technology, Saudi Arabia has transformed the pilgrimage experience, making it more accessible and comfortable for all participants.
The circulation of footage on social media showcasing these carts in action serves as a testament to their effectiveness in facilitating the seamless movement of pilgrims as they perform the tawaaf around the Kaaba. By providing a dedicated floor within the Grand Mosque for this purpose, the Kingdom ensures that individuals with mobility constraints can partake in the sacred rituals without hindrance.
