Holy Sites Transform: Greening, Shading, and Cooling
In Makkah, more than 25 development projects are being implemented to improve conditions for pilgrims through cooling systems, greening, and creating shaded areas over an area of more than 500,000 square meters.
Large-scale Transformation of Holy Sites
The Kidana Development Company, the executive body of the Royal Commission for the Development of Makkah and Holy Sites, is implementing an ambitious program to improve pilgrimage conditions. The projects include greening, creating shaded pedestrian paths, installing cooling systems, and setting up rest areas. This comprehensive approach aims to enhance the comfort and safety of millions of pilgrims visiting the holy sites each year.
Innovative Cooling and Shading Systems
One of the key achievements is the first-ever cooling and shading project around Mount Arafat (Jabal Al-Rahmah), covering more than 392,000 square meters. Simultaneously, a shading project for pedestrian paths in Mina is being implemented, covering an area of 103,000 square meters. For effective cooling, more than 6,000 misting stations have been installed at five main stations with a capacity of 1,500 cubic meters per hour. Additionally, 400 modern misting fans have been introduced in the eastern and western courtyards of the Jamaraat complex.
Green Holy Sites Initiative
The greening program for the holy sites involves planting more than 60,000 trees, significantly improving air quality and reducing temperatures in open spaces. The trees not only provide natural shading but also help reduce air pollution levels, creating a healthier and more comfortable environment for pilgrims. This initiative is especially important considering the climatic conditions of the region and the growing influx of pilgrims.
Infrastructure for Pilgrim Well-being
In addition to cooling and shading systems, a large-scale project to improve water supply is being implemented. More than 25,000 drinking water taps have been installed, providing pilgrims with access to clean drinking water in all key areas. Creating comfortable rest areas with adequate shading and access to water is critically important for the safety and well-being of pilgrims, especially during peak pilgrimage periods.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the total area of shaded spaces in the holy sites?
The shading projects cover more than 500,000 square meters, including 392,000 square meters around Mount Arafat and 103,000 square meters of pedestrian paths in Mina. This provides significant relief from the sun for millions of pilgrims.
How does the cooling system help pilgrims in hot climates?
The misting stations and fans operate on the principle of evaporative cooling, reducing the surrounding air temperature by several degrees. With a capacity of 1,500 cubic meters per hour, the system provides significant relief in extreme heat conditions.
What role does greening play in improving pilgrimage conditions?
Planting 60,000 trees improves air quality, creates natural shading, and lowers the overall temperature of the area. The trees also have a psychologically beneficial effect on pilgrims, creating a calmer and more welcoming atmosphere in the holy sites.
