Visiting the Grand Mosque in Makkah with children just got a little different. To ensure a smoother and safer experience for all, especially during peak pilgrimage seasons, Saudi Arabia has implemented a new policy regarding children's strollers. While strollers are no longer allowed on the ground floor of the Holy Kaaba's circumambulating area (Mataf), designated areas within the mosque and specific access points still permit their use.

The iconic black cube of the Kaaba, nestled within the vast expanse of the Grand Mosque in Makkah, draws millions of Muslim pilgrims annually. To ensure a safe and comfortable experience for all, particularly during the bustling Hajj and Umrah seasons, the Saudi Arabian government has recently implemented a new policy regarding children's strollers.

Effective immediately, strollers are no longer permitted on the ground floor of Mataf, the designated circumambulating area around the Kaaba. This decision primarily aims to ease congestion and improve crowd flow within this sacred space, especially during peak pilgrimage times.

However, families visiting the Grand Mosque with young children needn't worry. Strollers are still allowed in designated areas on the upper floors of Mataf, providing ample space for parents to navigate with their little ones while experiencing the sanctity of the holy site.

Furthermore, access to Mas'a, the running area between Safa and Marwa, is permitted for strollers through the King Fahd Expansion Area. This dedicated pathway ensures convenient access for families while maintaining separate spaces for smoother crowd movement.

It's important to note that during periods of significant overcrowding on Mataf and Mas'a floors, stroller access in these designated areas may also be temporarily restricted. This precautionary measure prioritizes the safety and comfort of all pilgrims navigating the holy grounds.

The new stroller policy is part of a broader initiative by the Saudi authorities to enhance the overall pilgrimage experience. As preparations for the upcoming Hajj in June are underway, with an anticipated 2 million pilgrims expected, the government is actively implementing various measures to optimize crowd management and accessibility.

One such initiative involves exploring the potential division of Masjid al-Haram (the Grand Mosque) into coded zones. This system, currently under study in collaboration with the Saudi Postal and Logistics Company, aims to streamline pilgrim movement within the mosque, optimize resource allocation, and facilitate efficient performance assessments.

The implementation of these initiatives reflects the Saudi Arabian government's commitment to providing a safe, comfortable, and enriching pilgrimage experience for all Muslims visiting the holy city of Makkah. Whether navigating the sacred spaces with or without strollers, the focus remains on fostering a sense of inclusivity and spiritual fulfillment for every pilgrim