Saudi Arabia continues expanding its infrastructure and pilgrim services during the Hajj season as Roads General Authority announced the implementation of “cooling road” projects at three Al-Mashaaer Al-Mugaddassah Metro locations in Makkah.
The project covers more than 14,000 square meters and aims to improve transportation environments and enhance pilgrim comfort amid high summer temperatures during Hajj.
Technology Reduces Road Temperatures by 15°C
The cooling road technology uses specialized materials designed to reduce heat absorption and reflect solar radiation, lowering surface temperatures by approximately 15 degrees Celsius.
The initiative focuses on crowded pedestrian zones and transportation hubs to create a safer and more comfortable environment for pilgrims moving between the holy sites.
Air-Conditioned Roadside Tents for Pilgrims
As part of its broader Hajj services, the authority also launched the “Road Tent” initiative along the Hijrah Road connecting Makkah and Madinah.
The air-conditioned tents provide:
- Comfortable seating areas.
- Light meals.
- Cold beverages.
- Road safety awareness materials and guidance.
The initiative was implemented in partnership with SASCO to improve the travel experience for pilgrims and Umrah performers.
Over 70,000 Vehicles Heading to Makkah
In a separate operational update, the authority revealed that more than 70,000 vehicles have traveled on roads leading to Makkah as part of Hajj transportation operations.
Officials confirmed continued field readiness and operational preparations to improve traffic flow efficiency and maintain safe movement across the Kingdom’s road network during the pilgrimage season.
Advancing Saudi Arabia’s Road Infrastructure Goals
The Roads General Authority stated that these initiatives support the Kingdom’s broader road sector goals, including:
- Ranking sixth globally in road quality by 2030.
- Reducing road fatalities to fewer than five per 100,000 people.
- Expanding road safety standards and network capacity.
The projects reflect Saudi Arabia’s ongoing commitment to using innovative and sustainable infrastructure solutions to serve millions of pilgrims during Hajj each year.
