Mount Mercy Emerges as a Sustainable Retreat and Tourist Destination in Makkah
Mount Mercy (Jabal al-Rahmah) has emerged as one of the open destinations attracting residents and visitors of Makkah following comprehensive development works aimed at preparing the site to be a community retreat and a year-round tourist destination. These efforts, part of the Makkah Winter activities, maintain the site’s religious and historical status.
The development works included an integrated package of services and facilities, most notably the establishment of commercial kiosks, drinking water stations, and shaded seating areas designed for visitor comfort. Additionally, fans equipped with misting systems were installed to cool the atmosphere, enhancing the visitor experience, especially during peak times.
Traffic management was organized by providing dedicated parking lots for cars and buses, used permanently to serve individual visitors and groups. In terms of safety and organization, a dedicated site for government agencies was prepared, and a staircase equipped for visitors and emergencies was constructed to enhance safety levels and facilitate access and evacuation when needed.
The development works paid great attention to the environmental and aesthetic dimension by providing green spaces exceeding 10,000 square meters, which contributed to improving the visual landscape and adding an aesthetic character that harmonizes with the sanctity of the place.
The development of Mount Mercy is part of the projects by Kidana Development Company—the executive arm of the Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites—within strategic plans targeting the development of the Holy Sites and their activation throughout the year. This aligns with goals to improve the quality of life and enhances the readiness of sites to receive pilgrims and visitors in various seasons.
The project serves as a model for integrating urban and service development while respecting the religious privacy of the site. It contributes to enriching the visitor experience, providing a suitable environment for visits and reflection, and supporting tourism and economic activity in the region.
The inclusion of Mount Mercy within the Makkah Winter activities reflects a trend toward diversifying destinations and transforming historical and religious sites into active spaces that serve both the community and visitors, strengthening Makkah’s position as a city embracing both spirituality and sustainable development.
United News Network – UNN Arabic
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