February 27, 2026 | 11:49 am
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Saudi Arabia has released comprehensive operational guidelines to welcome the surge of Umrah pilgrims during this year's Ramadan.
The government focuses on crowd management amid a surge of visitors at the Grand Mosque in Mecca, transportation regulation, and health and safety standardization. These measures are taken in consideration of the peak of visiting numbers during Ramadan, especially during the last ten holy nights.
As reported by Gulf News, on February 21, 2026, the authorities in Saudi Arabia implemented a digital indicator system at every entrance of the Grand Mosque. Green lights indicate access to the prayer area is still available, while red lights indicate full capacity. Additionally, the mataf area (an open space around the Ka'bah) is now allocated specifically for pilgrims performing Umrah rituals throughout the day to ensure smooth circulation for tawaf.
Authorities also tightened the transportation operations in the area. As reported by Khaleej Times, private vehicles are prohibited from entering the central zone around the Grand Mosque during peak hours. Pilgrims are directed to use public transportation such as public buses, taxis, and the high-speed Haramain train to the Rusayfah station. Pilgrims with private vehicles are required to park at designated terminals, both in internal locations such as Kuday and Al-Jamarat, and external locations on the Jeddah and Al-Hada highways.
Elderly and Disabled Individuals Given Priority
Authorities are giving special attention to vulnerable groups. Elderly pilgrims and persons with disabilities have been given priority lanes and access to electric carts on the first floor to facilitate tawaf and sa'i rituals.
However, families are strongly discouraged from bringing children to crowded areas during peak prayer times. This is to avoid physical risks and ensure a conducive worship environment for all visitors.
In terms of security, official digital Umrah permits remain a mandatory requirement. Authorities strongly prohibit activities that could hinder movement, such as bringing excessive baggage into the mosque, smoking, selling items, and begging.
Motorcycles and bicycles are also prohibited from crossing pedestrian pathways in the central district. Pilgrims are urged to maintain physical health by getting adequate rest and staying hydrated.
IMANDA ZAHWA
Read: Saudi Airline Mukhtara Air to Launch in Indonesia in 2026, Targeting Hajj and Umrah Travel
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