MAKKAH: Hajj and Umrah Minister Tawfiq Al-Rabiah has inspected several development projects currently underway at the holy sites in Makkah in preparation for this year’s pilgrimage.

The tour covered several key projects being implemented by the Kidana Development Co., the executive arm of the Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites.

The minister also reviewed progress on the construction of the 400-bed Emergency Hospital Project, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Wednesday.

The developments also focus on creating a more spacious and flexible urban environment, and providing comfortable public spaces for pilgrims.

The minister’s tour included pilgrim rest areas that provide facilities along pedestrian routes. Improvements will include seating, shade, cooling fans, and improvements to pathways and services across 36,000 sq. meters.

The minister also reviewed a cooling project surrounding Jabal Al-Rahmah (Mount Arafat), which aims to reduce the impact of high temperatures.

During the tour, the minister visited several sites offering cultural content highlighting the history of the holy sites.