Faith and comfort converge on Mecca’s new eco-friendly roads

TDT | Manama

Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

A spiritual journey rooted in centuries of tradition is now treading a path of innovation, as Saudi Arabia unveils a climate-controlled pedestrian corridor in Mecca just ahead of this year’s Hajj.

The expanded walkway, built using recycled car tyres and heat-reflective technology, aims to ease the journey for millions of pilgrims heading to Arafat, especially the elderly and those with disabilities.

Cooler steps, cleaner future

Authorities say the project is part of a broader commitment to sustainable infrastructure in sacred spaces. Since its launch in 2023, the cooled roads initiative has grown by 82 percent, resurfacing more than 84,000 square metres of walkway using specialised asphalt that reflects up to 40 percent more sunlight and reduces surface temperatures by approximately 12°C.

A critical feature is the use of rubberised asphalt made from locally sourced, recycled tyres. Saudi Arabia discards more than 23 million tyres annually, many of which previously ended up in landfills. Repurposing them for pilgrim roads helps cut toxic leachates and carbon emissions, offering both environmental and public health benefits.

Designing for dignity

The upgraded stretch now includes 16,000 square metres of flexible rubber surfacing, a 33 percent increase over the past year. The newest corridor connects the Namira Mosque to Arafat Train Station, offering a softer surface for safer, more comfortable walking, particularly for the elderly.

Officials have also completed a 4,000-metre path to Mount Arafat designed with low-vibration paving to aid those with mobility challenges and their companions.

Shade and solace

To counter Mecca’s extreme summer heat, the corridor features a green belt planted with trees, air-cooling mist dispensers, and water fountains installed with the support of local charities. The 1,200-metre green stretch is designed to improve air quality and provide moments of calm for pilgrims en route to one of the most profound moments of Hajj.

As climate change intensifies conditions in pilgrimage sites, Saudi Arabia’s move to merge tradition with environmental innovation signals a deeper commitment to both spiritual and sustainable journeys.