Muslim Pilgrims Can Tawaf Using Golf Carts on The Roof of Grand Mosque in Mecca

Visiting the Grand Mosque in Mecca is a profound and spiritual experience, especially for those performing Hajj and Umrah. With thousands of pilgrims gathering daily, the Saudi government continuously seeks new ways to enhance accessibility and comfort. One of their latest innovations? A golf cart service that allows pilgrims to perform tawaf on the rooftop of the Grand Mosque!

Also read: Ultimate Guide to Hajj And Umrah 2025: Essential Tips For First-Time Pilgrims

A game-changer for pilgrims

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Tawaf, or the act of circling the Kaaba seven times in worship, is one of the most significant rituals in Islam. However, with the sheer number of worshippers—especially during Ramadan and Hajj season—this sacred act can be physically demanding, particularly for the elderly and disabled. Enter the golf cart service, a modern and convenient solution that provides easier mobility while preserving the sanctity of the experience.

Located on the second rooftop floor (fifth level) of the Grand Mosque, these golf carts are now available to all pilgrims, not just those with mobility challenges. It’s a significant step forward in making worship more accessible while keeping the experience smooth and enjoyable for everyone.

Operating hours and access points

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The golf cart service operates daily from 4:00 pm to 4:00 am, ensuring that pilgrims can use this facility during prime worship hours. Access to the golf cart service is available through Ajyad Escalators, King Abdulaziz Gate Elevators, and Umrah Gate Elevators. Pilgrims can purchase tickets for SR25 (S$9) per person (inclusive of VAT) at designated sales points on the rooftop of the Grand Mosque.

The expansion of the Mataf: More space, more comfort

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To accommodate the ever-growing number of visitors, the Saudi Arabian government has undertaken a massive expansion of the mataf (circumambulation area). This project, known as The Saudi Riwaq, has increased the capacity of the Grand Mosque to 107,000 worshippers per hour, with a total of 287,000 worshippers accommodated at peak times.

The expansion includes six designated levels for performing tawaf, each catering to different needs:

Ground Floor (Mataf Floor): Reserved for pilgrims wearing ihram, the sacred attire for Hajj and Umrah.

First Floor: Also exclusive to ihram-clad pilgrims.

Second Floor: Open to all worshippers, offering a spacious area for tawaf.

Third Floor: Designed for pilgrims using scooters, ensuring accessibility for those who need assistance.

Fourth Floor (Rooftop): Available for all worshippers, providing a peaceful space with a breathtaking view of the Grand Mosque.

Fifth Floor (Second Rooftop): Dedicated to golf cart users, making the experience effortless and smooth.

A long-awaited convenience

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The idea of introducing golf carts for tawaf isn’t entirely new. In fact, discussions about it began as early as 2014, led by Dr. Faisal Wafa, a key figure in the Grand Mosque expansion project. The primary goal? To make the act of tawaf and sai (walking between Safa and Marwah) easier for the elderly, disabled, and those with physical limitations.

While the initial research focused on assisting these groups, the service has now been expanded for all pilgrims. This means that whether one has physical limitations or simply wishes to experience a more comfortable tawaf, the golf cart service is a fantastic option. It’s similar to the automatic scooter rental services already available within the Grand Mosque, offering both convenience and efficiency.

Enhancing the pilgrim experience

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Also read: 12 Culture Shocks You’ll Experience During Umrah

Saudi Arabia has long been dedicated to improving the experience for pilgrims visiting the Grand Mosque. From state-of-the-art crowd control measures to the introduction of air-conditioned walkways, every enhancement aims to ensure a safe, accessible, and spiritually fulfilling journey for millions of Muslims worldwide.

The introduction of golf carts for tawaf is yet another step toward making the Grand Mosque more inclusive and accommodating for all worshippers. It represents the perfect blend of tradition and modernity, allowing pilgrims to engage in their spiritual practices with greater ease and comfort.

With 50 golf carts available, each accommodating up to 10 passengers, this service is set to make a significant impact on the way pilgrims experience the Grand Mosque. So, whether one is embarking on their first Umrah or returning for another Hajj, this new facility promises a smoother and more memorable experience at one of the holiest sites in Islam.