Makkah Hajj Sites Expand Eco-Friendly Walkways by 33%

Muslims heading to Makkah for Hajj 2025 can expect a safer and more comfortable walking experience, thanks to Saudi Arabia’s push for smarter, greener infrastructure. This year, the Kingdom has expanded the use of rubber asphalt walkways by 33 percent at key pilgrimage sites.

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The Roads General Authority confirmed that the upgraded path, stretching from Namirah Mosque to Al-Mashaer train station in Arafat, now covers 16,000 square meters. These new walkways are built using flexible rubber asphalt, a sustainable material made from recycled tires.

Turning Waste Into Comfort

Instead of letting used tires pile up and pollute the air when burned, Saudi engineers are repurposing them into walkways that are not only eco-friendly but also easier on the feet.

Reducing Injuries Among Pilgrims

Why does that matter? Because walking is a huge part of Hajj and not always an easy one. Studies show that regular asphalt can be harsh on joints, especially for elderly pilgrims. In fact, over half of those performing Hajj are aged 60 and above. Around 38 percent of foot and ankle injuries treated during the pilgrimage are caused by walking on hard, unforgiving surfaces.

The new rubber-based walkways are designed to absorb shock and reduce pressure on ankles and knees, which could help significantly lower those injury rates.

Supporting Saudi’s Vision 2030

This initiative supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which focuses on sustainability, smart cities, and improving services for residents and visitors alike.

Millions Expected for Hajj 2025

With Hajj 2025 expected to begin on June 4, pending moon-sighting confirmation, Saudi authorities are preparing for a large crowd. Last year, over 1.83 million people performed Hajj, including more than 1.6 million international pilgrims.

As of May 21, 2025, more than 755,000 pilgrims had already arrived in the Kingdom through air, land, and sea, according to Saudi’s General Directorate of Passports (Jawazath).

Top Countries Sending Pilgrims

Indonesians are expected to make up the largest group of pilgrims again this year, just like in 2024 when 221,000 arrived from Indonesia alone. Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, and Nigeria round out the top five countries sending pilgrims.

A Softer Step Toward a Spiritual Journey

So whether you're heading to Makkah for the first time or returning again, you can look forward to a safer, softer journey, one step at a time.