The Umrah journey is a deeply profound act of devotion for Muslims worldwide. Yet, in the previous years, the overwhelming logistical challenges, traveling for hours, walking in intense crowds, and enduring the intense heat often posed significant physical and mental challenges. It is heart-touching to note that the Masjid Al-Haram and Masjid Al-Nabawi authorities have taken measures to ease these burdens by introducing dedicated mobility services.

What Makes Performing Umrah Difficult for You?

Walking long distances makes you worried? The Grand Mosque is vast, covering miles, with a little complicated layout. Often, blocks are placed on many passages to manage the crowd. The facilities at various points are available for the ease and comfort of the Umrah pilgrims.

Why Mobility Services Matter?

The vast area of Masjid Al-Haram and various passages make the layout complex. Walking for the Tawaf ritual for many meters, often in dense crowds and intense heat, is challenging for many pilgrims, particularly the elders.

The Sa’i ritual also drains energy. Taking seven back and forth walk rounds between Safa and Marwa. Although the ritual is performed under a roof and in air-conditioned passageways. The walk is still challenging for many weak and elderly pilgrims.

Elderly pilgrims, people with disabilities, and those recovering from illness or injury, the physical strain and long walks can distract them from the spiritual focus.

Recognizing the challenges, the authorities have taken measures and enhanced accessibility so that the Umrah journey remains meaningful and stress-free. 

What’s New: The Latest Mobility & Accessibility Upgrades

The official Saudi Press Agency reported that 50 specialised golf carts have been introduced on the rooftop (Mataf roof) for older people and those with disabilities.

A dedicated mobility services platform has been launched. The platform allows pilgrims to pre-book golf carts, manually operated wheelchairs, and free non-motorised wheelchairs.

Depending on the season, the golf cart service (for Tawaf and Sa’i) costs vary, while those with certified disabilities can access the service free of charge.

The service hours for the golf carts are typically from 4:00 pm to 4:00 am (can vary with the crowd density).

Electronic booking for golf carts has become mandatory from around March 2025 for most users; however, pilgrims with disabilities may access the service directly.

These mobility services clearly show that Saudi Arabia takes a comfortable and peaceful Umrah journey very seriously. 

What’s Offered to Pilgrims

For the ease of pilgrims with limited mobility, free manual (non-motorised) wheelchairs are provided at designated service points in the Grand Mosque.

The wheelchair service is not time-bound; it is available 24 hours a day at certain points.

Dedicated prayer rooms and halls for people with disabilities have been built, with accessible paths, ramps, and signage.

Entry gates and entrances now include service points where wheelchairs can be obtained easily.

How to Access the Service

• When arriving at the Grand Mosque, look out for signs indicating “Mobility Service / Wheelchairs” at major entrances.
• At the first-floor Sa’i area and at designated entrances, wheelchair service points are clearly marked.
• Bring any relevant documentation if you are requesting priority service (sometimes given to those with medical certificates).
• Arrive with a companion if possible; they can help in boarding/exiting and guiding.
• If you bring your own wheelchair, still check with the service point for assistance or designated boarding paths.
• Golf carts are available on upper levels (e.g., the fifth or sixth floor/rooftop of the Mataf area).
• The carts accommodate multiple passengers (some sources say up to 10) and circulate on dedicated paths designed not to interfere with foot traffic to the ground level.
• The booking platform allows you to reserve for Tawaf, Sa’i, or for the full Umrah ritual.

Booking & Practicalities

• Tickets can be purchased at designated counters at Gate 1 (King Abdul Aziz), Gate 5 (Bab Ajyad) or Gate 63 (Bab Umrah) in many cases.
• The boarding point is accessed via escalators or elevators to the upper levels.
• Electronic booking is now recommended/required. Pilgrims over 65 or with less mobility should book ahead if possible.
• Service hours are commonly from 4:00 pm to 4:00 am (to avoid the hottest midday hours and manage crowds). 

Final Thoughts

Umrah is a deeply spiritual journey, but long distances, heat, and crowds once made it physically challenging. The challenges can be unbearable, especially for elderly pilgrims and those with limited mobility.

Today, the authorities of Masjid Al-Haram and Masjid Al-Nabawi have transformed the experience by introducing specialised golf carts, 24/7 wheelchair services, dedicated disability-friendly routes, prayer halls, and a digital mobility-booking platform.

These improvements ensure that every pilgrim can perform Tawaf and Sa’i with comfort and peace of mind. With easier access, smoother movement, and thoughtful facilities, the Umrah journey has become more inclusive than ever, allowing pilgrims to focus on worship rather than physical strain.