Elderly Services Expanded at Makkah

The Makkah Grand Mosque has recently introduced new integrated services targeting elderly worshippers. These form the General Authority for the Affairs of the Grand Mosque’s broader strategy to care for senior visitors.

Electric vehicles and prayer rooms

These new services offer a range of assistance for elderly worshippers. For example, electric shuttles are available at the eastern square to transport the elderly from Gaza Bridge to Al-Salam Basement. Specifically, this helps them navigate the large area of the mosque.

In addition, big electric vehicles also assist them in doing the Saa’i or the ritual walk between Safa and Marwah. Particularly, pilgrims can find these at the Al-Marwah Stairway and elevators, the Al-Arqam Stairway and elevators, and the Al-Qarara Stairway. Staff are available on the second floor to help pilgrims perform the Saa’i.

Furthermore, prayer rooms now cater to elderly and disabled worshippers. Pilgrims can find these prayer rooms at the King Fahd expansion on the first floor, near Gates 91 and 64. It’s important to note that Gates 68 and 90 have ramps and signages, making them more accessible for senior pilgrims.

Earlier in September, the Al-Madinah Region Development Authority announced the Madinah Bus’ subscription service for pilgrims visiting the Prophet’s Mosque.

Enriching senior pilgrims’ experience

To add, senior worshippers can use bridges and elevators to bring their vehicles inside the mosque. Namely, these are the Ajyad, Al-Shobaika, Al-Arqam, and Al-Marwah bridges, the Al-Arqam elevator, and the Al-Salam Basement.

Moreover, the Grand Mosque’s main and interior doors also feature Braille signages to help visually impaired people. Volunteers also assist senior pilgrims, pushing them on wheelchairs at the entrance to Bab e Ajyad and Bab e Safa.

Meanwhile, umbrellas are also available for the elderly and disabled to shield themselves from the sun’s heat when doing circumambulation.

“All Hajj workers are dedicated to serving the pilgrims … it is an honor that Saudis proudly uphold at all levels,” said Saad Jameel Al-Qurashi, a local Hajj agency owner.

About the Tawqeer

The goal of these services is to ensure that the mosque is more accessible and comfortable for elderly visitors. For instance, the electric shuttles eliminate the need for long, tiring walks, helping elderly worshippers reach their destinations effortlessly. Meanwhile, the dedicated prayer rooms provide a quiet and peaceful space, enhancing their spiritual experience.

Saudi Arabia’s commitment to elderly care extends beyond the Grand Mosque. For instance, the “Tawqeer” (Elderly Care) Initiative reflects this dedication. The General Presidency for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques launched the Tawqeer in October 2022.

This initiative offers various services and programs that aim to improve the quality of life for the elderly. These services range from healthcare to social activities, ensuring comprehensive care for the elderly population.

Increased accessibility and comfort for the elderly

In June 2024, reports claimed that the Saudi government ensured there were top-quality services for the elderly and disabled. These included the provision of hospitals and healthcare centers to provide first aid and emergency medical care in holy sites.

Additionally, the government also ensured pilgrims’ safety with security services such as crowd management and traffic control services. Meanwhile, mobile applications help guide visitors and provide them with important information such as those for emergency situations.

Photo: Saudi Press Agency