![Muslim pilgrims gather at the top of the rocky hill known as the Mountain of Mercy, on the Plain of Arafat, during the annual Hajj pilgrimage, near the holy city of Mecca, Saudi Arabia. [Rafiq Maqbool/AP Photo]](https://mmnews.tv/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Mount-Arafat.jpg)
Saudi authorities have initiated major infrastructure enhancements to improve the comfort and safety of pilgrims during the upcoming Hajj season.
Key rest and support areas are being constructed in Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah, with a focus on easing the physical demands of the pilgrimage amid extreme heat and heavy foot traffic.
The updates were presented during a briefing to Prince Saud bin Mishaal, Deputy Governor of Makkah, as part of preparations for the annual event.
Officials revealed that 50,000 square meters of shaded walkways are under development in Mina to assist pedestrian movement, while in Arafat, 60,000 square meters of shelters equipped with misting fans are being installed around Jabal al-Rahmah to offer relief from the heat.
Meanwhile, the Saudi Ministry of Tourism has tightened regulations concerning accommodations in Makkah. Hotels are now prohibited from hosting individuals without valid Hajj permits or official work or residency documentation.
To streamline enforcement and improve coordination, the government has introduced the Tasreeh Platform—a digital system designed for issuing Hajj permits to both domestic and international pilgrims. Integrated with the existing Nusuk platform, Tasreeh will also manage permits for workers, volunteers, and service vehicles, aiming to ensure efficient and secure operations throughout the Hajj season.
