In a strategic move aimed at enhancing Hajj and Umrah services, the Ministry of Municipalities and Housing, in close cooperation with the Ministry of Tourism, has issued a comprehensive set of updated municipal regulations governing the temporary accommodation sector in both Makkah and Madinah. This step is intended to ensure the provision of the best possible services to pilgrims, with a focus on strict adherence to safety and urban planning standards during the Hajj season.
Development context and the objectives of Vision 2030
These regulatory measures cannot be separated from the broader context of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's efforts to serve the Two Holy Mosques. These requirements are directly aligned with the objectives of "Vision 2030" and the "Serving the Guests of God" program, which aims to facilitate the hosting of more Umrah pilgrims and Hajj pilgrims, reaching 30 million Umrah pilgrims by 2030. This ambitious goal necessitates a robust infrastructure and accommodation facilities that meet the highest standards of readiness and safety, making the regulation of temporary accommodations an urgent necessity to accommodate the increasing numbers while maintaining the quality of the spiritual experience.
Strict technical and engineering standards
The ministry clarified that the timeframe for these requirements focuses on accommodations operating seasonally during the Hajj period. The ministry has established specific conditions for granting licenses, the most important of which are:
- Civil Defense approvals: Licensing is contingent upon fulfilling all safety and fire prevention requirements to ensure the safety of lives and property.
- Urban Code: Obliging investors to apply the Saudi Building Code, taking into account the construction standards that ensure the durability of buildings.
- Visual identity: Focusing on creating an urban identity that is consistent with the heritage and spiritual character of the two holy cities, in order to address visual distortion and improve the urban landscape.
- Accessibility: Making facilities and sidewalks accessible to people with disabilities, in line with global accessibility standards.
Health and security oversight
On the operational level, the ministry did not limit itself to the construction aspect, but also imposed strict oversight on the daily operating environment. Regulations included the mandatory provision of a security camera network to ensure security at the sites, in addition to rigorous standards for general cleanliness, regular maintenance, and proper waste management.
Regarding human resources, the regulations stipulated that all employees in these hostels must have documented health certificates proving that they are free from contagious diseases, with full compliance with the regulations of the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, to ensure the provision of a professional and safe service.
Expected economic impact
This new regulation is expected to stimulate investment in the seasonal hospitality sector. By providing a clear and transparent regulatory environment, the Ministry encourages investors to inject capital into the development of hospitality facilities, thereby increasing competitiveness and ultimately improving pilgrim satisfaction with the accommodation services provided, and enhancing the Kingdom's position as a leading destination in crowd management and religious tourism.
