Saudi introduces smart golf carts for Sa’i at Makkah

Jeddah: The General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque has introduced a new smart golf cart service for pilgrims in the Grand Mosque in Makkah, Saudi Arabia.

In a statement released on Wednesday, March 27, the authority declared the implementation of the smart golf carts service for pilgrims to perform Sa’i, the ritual of walking back and forth seven times between the two hills of Safa and Marwa.

The authority stated, “After proving its effectiveness in circumambulation… providing electric golf cart service for Sa’i to facilitate the pilgrims’ journey.”

This initiative follows the recent introduction of a golf cart service to assist the elderly and individuals with disabilities in performing tawaaf, the circumambulation around the Kaaba in the Grand Mosque. The service significantly reduces the duration of tawaaf by 50 percent.

Pilgrims can now avail themselves of the smart golf carts service, which operates during a specific period of the day from 4 pm until 4 am. The service aims to enhance the pilgrims' experience and ease their journey during the holy month of Ramadan.

The launch of the smart golf carts service coincides with the ongoing holy month of Ramadan, which typically marks the peak season for Umrah pilgrimages to Makkah.

The smart golf carts are stationed at various locations in the Grand Mosque, including the Ajyad Escalator, King Abdulaziz Gate Escalator and Bab Al Umrah Escalator.

Pilgrims can avail themselves of the service for 25 Saudi riyals, including tax. Each vehicle is capable of accommodating up to 10 passengers, ensuring efficient and comfortable transportation for pilgrims.