Makkah, March 4, 2025 – As the holy month of Ramadan unfolds, the Grand Mosque in Makkah witnesses a significant influx of worshippers and Umrah performers. Managing the entry and exit of these visitors is a crucial responsibility for the General Authority for the Care of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque. The authority ensures smooth, safe, and efficient access for all individuals, particularly during this peak period of religious observance.
In its efforts to streamline movement within the mosque, the authority has meticulously designated specific gates and pathways for both Umrah performers and regular worshippers. Special access points are essential for managing the large crowds while maintaining the sanctity and safety of the mosque.
For Umrah performers, several key entrances have been set aside to ensure their smooth transition into and out of the mosque. These include King Abdulaziz Gate 1, King Fahd Gate 79, Umrah Gate, and Al-Salam Gate 19. In addition to these designated gates, two important bridges serving Umrah performers are located on the first floor: Al-Shubaika Bridge No. 64 and Ajyad Bridge No. 7. These bridges provide additional pathways, helping to reduce congestion and ensuring a steady flow of visitors.
In addition to the specific Umrah performer entrances, a number of gates and bridges have been allocated for general worshippers to access the mosque. These designated entry points include Ajyad Bridge, Al-Marwah Bridge, Al-Safa Bridge, and various stairways such as Al-Arqam Stairway, Stairway 74, Stairway 84, and Stairway 91. The gates for worshippers’ entry are also varied, with special gates including 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 89, 90, 114, 121, and 123.
Recognizing the diverse needs of all visitors, the authority has also taken specific measures to accommodate women and individuals with disabilities. Gates 70, 85, 86, 87, and 89 have been designated as entrances to women’s prayer areas, ensuring they have a dedicated and accessible space within the mosque. For people with disabilities, designated access points have been assigned through Gates 68, 69, 89, 93, 94, 114, and 123. Additionally, bridges such as Al-Marwah, Ajyad, Al-Safa, and Al-Shubaika have been carefully selected for accessibility, ensuring all worshippers can access the mosque with ease.
In terms of emergency and funeral protocols, the authority has also established specific gates for such purposes. Gate 7 is designated as the entry point for funeral prayers, while Gate 5 serves as the exit for funeral processions. Gates 13 and 14 are reserved exclusively for emergency situations, ensuring that there are clear routes for swift action if needed.
These carefully coordinated organizational measures aim to optimize the flow of people, enhance the comfort of worshippers and Umrah performers, and uphold the sanctity of the Grand Mosque during the blessed month of Ramadan. By allocating specific gates and routes, the General Authority for the Care of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque ensures that all visitors can perform their religious duties with ease, safety, and reverence, contributing to a spiritually enriching experience during this holy month.