In an effort to streamline access for worshippers and workers, Saudi Arabia is exploring the implementation of coded zones within the Grand Mosque and its courtyards in Makkah. The General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Prophet's Mosque and the Grand Mosque, in collaboration with the Saudi Postal and Logistics Services Company (SPL), recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) during the Hajj and Umrah Services Conference and Exhibition 2024.

The memorandum outlines the SPL's research responsibilities, focusing on dividing the Grand Mosque into coded zones. This initiative aims to provide accurate positional descriptions and facilitate navigation for workers and worshippers within the vast mosque and its surroundings.

The agreement also aims to assess performance and allocate staff based on accommodation and operational capacity, ensuring the highest level of service provision at this sacred Islamic site.

Notably, the Grand Mosque witnessed a historic influx of Umrah pilgrims in the past year. According to Dr. Tawfiq Al-Rabiah, Minister of Hajj and Umrah, 2023 saw over 13.5 million foreign pilgrims undertaking the Umrah—an impressive 58 percent increase compared to the previous year, equivalent to five million additional pilgrims.

During the opening session of the Hajj and Umrah Services Conference and Exhibition, held at the Jeddah Superdome on January 8, Minister Al-Rabiah highlighted the commitment of the Saudi government to providing luxurious accommodations and amenities for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims. This dedication ensures that pilgrims can fulfill their religious duties in a relaxed and comfortable manner.