Saudi Arabia Unveils Major Projects to Improve Hajj, Umrah Experience
Saudi authorities have unveiled a series of major initiatives aimed at improving the experience of Hajj and Umrah pilgrims ahead of the 2026 pilgrimage season.
As part of activities marking preparations for Hajj 2026, the Saudi General Authority for Media Regulation on Tuesday hosted local and international media delegations on a tour of key religious, historical and heritage sites in Makkah.
The initiative was designed to support journalists covering the pilgrimage and showcase ongoing projects intended to enhance services for visitors and residents.
One of the major projects presented was the “Masar Destination,” a large-scale urban development designed to create a new gateway into Makkah and ease movement within the city.
Speaking during the tour, Abdullaziz Al-Ghurashi, a stakeholder in the project, described Masar as a transformative development aimed at improving accessibility to the Holy Mosque and enhancing the overall visitor experience.
According to him, the project stretches over 3.5 kilometres and spans about 320 metres in width, located roughly 500 metres from Al-Haram and less than 100 metres from the Haramain railway station.
He said the project covers about 1.2 million square metres and features the expansive King Abdullah Mosque Plaza at its centre.
Al-Ghurashi explained that the development includes a dedicated boulevard linking visitors directly to Al-Haram without interference from regular city traffic.
“We also have separate south and north roads. The south road leads directly to Al-Haram, while the north road connects to the Jeddah-Makkah highway,” he said.
He added that the Masar Destination would accommodate about 160,000 people at a time, with 60 per cent expected to be Hajj and Umrah pilgrims.
The project also includes four underground parking facilities and two bus stations to improve transportation and visitor convenience.
Al-Ghurashi noted that the initiative was primarily aimed at improving the quality of life and comfort of pilgrims and residents in Makkah.
The media tour also featured visits to the International Museum of the Prophet’s Biography and Islamic Civilisation, which showcases the life and message of Prophet Muhammad and highlights Islamic heritage.
Also showcased was the Clock Tower Museum – Universe Sciences Center, which explores the relationship between science and faith.
Journalists were equally taken to the Kaaba Kiswa Factory, where they were introduced to the history, craftsmanship and intricate process involved in producing the sacred covering of the Holy Kaaba.
The exhibition highlighted the evolution of the centuries-old Islamic tradition and the detailed artistry behind the Kiswa production.
