Saudi Arabia has unveiled a major expansion of its cooled pedestrian infrastructure in Mecca, led by Eng. Saleh Al-Jasser, Minister of Transport and Logistics Services and Chairman of the Roads General Authority, with a particular focus on enhancing accessibility for people with disabilities.
The Roads General Authority confirmed that its cooled road initiative, first launched in 2023, has expanded by 82%. Over 84,000 square metres of walkways in Arafat have been laid using locally recycled materials engineered to reduce surface temperatures by as much as 12°C. These materials also reflect 30–40% more sunlight in the mornings, offering relief from intense heat while reducing energy use and air pollution.
In parallel, flexible rubberised roads—designed to cushion impact and improve walking conditions, especially for elderly individuals—have increased by 33%. The latest section extends from Namira Mosque to the Arafat Train Station, bringing the total area of this special surface to 16,000 square metres. Studies by the Road Research Centre confirm the benefits in terms of both safety and user comfort.
A complementary green corridor project has also been launched. Stretching 1,200 metres, it includes tree planting and is supported by misting systems and drinking fountains installed in partnership with the Abdulrahman Fakieh Charitable Foundation—boosting air quality and enhancing the pilgrim experience.
Accessibility remains a key focus. The Minister introduced a 4,000-metre dedicated pathway leading to Mount Arafat, paved with cooled materials specifically designed to minimise vibrations and facilitate easier movement for people with disabilities and their companions.
This ambitious programme reflects the Roads General Authority’s goal of improving road quality to rank among the world’s top six by 2030, while also striving to cut road fatalities to fewer than five per 100,000 people.
Saudi Arabia’s road network currently spans over 73,000 kilometres, making it the global leader in intercity road connectivity. For media enquiries, please contact: [email protected]
