Here’s How Saudi Arabia Is Making The Hajj Experience Comfortable For Pilgrims

Worshippers from across the globe will be making their way to Makkah and Madinah for the sacred journey

Every year, millions of pilgrims from across the globe ascend into Saudi Arabia for the annual Hajj season. Taking place between June 14 to June 19 this year, pilgrims begin arriving in the Kingdom one to two weeks before Hajj commences, with many of them visiting Madinah before making their way to Makkah.

According to Saudi authorities, over half a million pilgrims have already arrived in the country as of May 26, with up to two million people expected in total.

To accommodate for the influx of visitors embarking on this sacred journey, the Saudi Press Agency has outlined a comprehensive plan, undertaken by the General Authority for the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque, to ensure the wellbeing and comfort of all pilgrims, allowing them to perform prayers in an atmosphere of peace and tranquillity.

A prominent measure in this initiative the provision of cold Zamzam water around the clock to worshipers throughout the Prophet’s Mosque.

Overseen by the Zamzam Water Department, the operation begins with the transportation of 300 tonnes of water daily from its source in Makkah to the mosque. The water undergoes various testing daily, and is transferred to large tanks distributed throughout the mosque. The tanks are refilled according to a precise schedule, and are subject to additional processes such as cleaning and cooling.

In the courtyard of the mosque, 250 large umbrellas protect pilgrims from the sun – a vital necessity in the Kingdom’s sweltering summers. Each umbrella also features a drainage system, and reduces the risk of slipping when it rains.

At 15 metres high and weighing 40 tons each, the umbrellas provide protection for 228,000 worshippers, and are also equipped with lighting units. Each umbrella features an intricate gold-plated copper design.

Mist fans have also been installed, to combat the extreme heat. The fans mix cold air with water mist to provide a cooling effect during the summer months.

In the courtyard and inside the Prophet’s Mosque, white marble covers the flooring, imported specifically to the Two Holy Mosques. This rare type of marble holds a specialised cooling effect, by reflecting the sunlight and absorbing the moisture, keeping the temperatures moderate.

Lead image credit: Unsplash