Saudi Gazette report

MAKKAH — Deputy Emir of the Makkah Region Prince Saud bin Mishaal conducted a comprehensive inspection tour to assess the Kingdom’s operational readiness for Hajj 2025, reviewing projects and systems aimed at ensuring the safety, comfort, and well-being of pilgrims.

The tour began at the Al-Shamsi Center sorting point, where Prince Saud examined the work of the Special Forces for Road Security in managing pilgrim entry to Makkah and enforcing regulations against unauthorized access.

The center, with 16 lanes, hosts administrative offices for Road Security, a building for 10 government agencies, and housing for personnel.

Prince Saud then visited the Unified Security Operations Center (911), where he was briefed on its integrated role in providing real-time security and humanitarian services.

The center comprises 47 operations rooms and leverages advanced technology to ensure swift response times and seamless coordination between agencies.

He observed multilingual call handling and live regional surveillance operations, along with the Crisis and Disaster Management Hall tasked with responding to emergencies during Hajj.

In Arafat, the prince reviewed the large-scale project to mitigate heat stress in the vicinity of Namirah Mosque, covering 85,000 square meters.

The initiative includes planting more than 2,000 trees, installing 320 umbrellas and 350 misting fans, and developing supporting infrastructure for water and electricity.

In Muzdalifah, he inspected the pedestrian path enhancement project across 170,000 square meters, featuring rubber flooring and 20,000 trees. The initiative aims to improve service quality and safety for pilgrims navigating between holy sites.

The tour also included a review of the First Aid Departure Centers project, with 71 locations set up along the pedestrian routes in Mina, Muzdalifah, and Arafat. These centers will provide urgent medical aid and logistical support throughout the pilgrimage.

Prince Saud concluded his visit at the new emergency hospital under construction in Mina. The facility spans 5,300 square meters and will feature over 180 beds, significantly boosting emergency healthcare capacity during the Hajj season.