Saudi authorities have constructed 283 kilometers of new roads connecting various parts of the kingdom to the holy city of Mecca to better serve pilgrims, according to a Saudi official.

Khaled Al Otaibi, head of the Transport Ministry’s Mecca branch, stated that the Saudi Roads General Authority has completed several projects, including an expressway linking Riyadh to Taif, a city in the Mecca region. 

Speaking at an annual forum on Hajj and Umrah services held in Jeddah, Al Otaibi also highlighted the construction of a 300-meter pedestrian crossing beneath the Eastern Ring Road in Arafat, approximately 22 kilometers from Mecca. This crossing is designed to separate pedestrian and vehicle traffic, enhancing public safety.

These developments are part of a comprehensive strategy to improve road infrastructure and support facilities for the annual Hajj pilgrimage and year-round Umrah rituals.

Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam, is a mandatory religious duty for Muslims who are physically and financially able to perform it at least once in their lifetime.

Last year, around 1.8 million pilgrims, including 1.6 million from abroad, participated in the Hajj pilgrimage in and around Mecca. Preparations are underway for the upcoming season.

As part of its ambitious goals, Saudi Arabia aims to welcome 15 million Muslims to perform Umrah at Mecca's Grand Mosque by 2025. This initiative is part of the "Guests of God Service Programme," which focuses on expanding infrastructure and integrating advanced technologies, such as digitizing services for pilgrims.