MAKKAH: The Saudi Ministry of Interior has released a detailed guide for the 2026 Hajj season to ensure the safety of pilgrims and support a smooth and peaceful pilgrimage.
The guide outlines designated pedestrian routes to the Grand Mosque and specifies pathways for the Tawaf and Sa’i areas, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported on Friday.
It also highlights peak hours within the Grand Mosque and its courtyards, providing guidance on vehicle usage and managing crowd flow.
Pilgrims are urged to follow scheduled times for Tawaf, Sa’i, and the stoning of the Jamarat. The guide also reinforces the “No Hajj Without a Permit” regulation and details penalties for violations to uphold order and security.
The Ministry emphasised the importance of adhering to these regulations and encouraged the public to report any violations by calling 911 in Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh, and the Eastern regions, or 999 throughout the rest of the Kingdom.
Meanwhile, the General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque has finalised its operational plan for the Hajj season, aiming to maximise efficiency and ensure a safe and seamless experience for pilgrims through advanced technical and logistical preparations.
At the Grand Mosque, crowd management has been enhanced in the Mataf and Mas’a areas, supported by high-efficiency air conditioning and smart electrical systems in expansion facilities, the SPA reported.
New guidance measures include interactive 3D maps and multilingual screens, while the engineering command and control center enables real-time monitoring. Logistics have also been strengthened, with improved Zamzam water distribution and a robust fleet of wheelchairs to assist pilgrims.
In Madinah, preparations focus on Al-Rawdah Al-Sharifah, with measures in place to better manage peak-hour density and ensure orderly movement of visitors.
