Introduction: A qualitative leap in serving the guests of God
As part of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s ongoing efforts to enhance services for pilgrims and in line with the goals of Vision 2030, which aims to enrich the religious experience for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims, the General Presidency for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques launched the “Unified Mobility Platform.” This platform represents a comprehensive digital solution designed to organize and facilitate the booking and use of transportation vehicles within the Grand Mosque in Mecca, ensuring a comfortable and safe service, especially for the elderly and people with disabilities.
General context and importance of the platform
Historically, providing vehicles for pilgrims was done through traditional methods that often lacked organization, sometimes leading to difficulties in accessing the service or price fluctuations. The launch of the "Tanqul" electronic platform was a strategic step to address these challenges, as it fully digitizes the service, from booking and selecting the vehicle type and time, to electronic payment. This transformation enhances transparency and efficiency, eliminates arbitrary practices, and ensures that the service reaches those who need it easily and conveniently. Regionally and internationally, this initiative reflects the Kingdom's progressive image in managing crowds and serving Muslims from all over the world, and confirms its leadership in harnessing technology to enhance the quality of services at the Two Holy Mosques.
How to benefit from the unified mobility platform: easy and clear steps
To benefit from the platform's services, the pilgrim or visitor can follow these electronic steps:
- Starting the service: Access the platform via the designated link and click on the “Start Service” option.
- Choosing the type of cart: Select the appropriate cart for your needs, as there are various options available such as: large electric golf carts, handcarts with a pusher, or handcarts without a pusher.
- Determining the type of trip: Choosing the purpose of using the vehicle, whether it is for circumambulation only, or for Sa'i, or to perform the entire Umrah rituals (circumambulation and Sa'i).
- Setting the date: Choosing the appropriate date and time to perform the ritual to ensure the availability of the vehicle.
- Completing the booking and payment: Complete the booking details and make the electronic payment if the service is paid.
- Obtaining the ticket: After the process is successfully completed, an electronic booking ticket will appear which must be presented at the starting point.
Terms and conditions for the categories benefiting from the free service
In order to care for the most vulnerable groups, the platform provides the service free of charge according to the following guidelines:
- People with disabilities: The service is provided free of charge to people with disabilities, provided they present their disability card issued by official authorities, which must be matched with their personal ID or verified through the "Tawakkalna Services" application. The free service also includes a personal companion if the disability card indicates the beneficiary's need for an assistant.
- Elderly people (over 65 years old): They are given priority in receiving the service, with handcarts provided to them free of charge at the designated assembly points in the outer courtyards of the Grand Mosque, in appreciation of their status and to make things easier for them.
- Children (under 3 years): The service is free for children under the age of three, but an adult escort is required with them, and they must be constantly monitored and have their seatbelt fastened to ensure their safety throughout the journey.
Important instructions to ensure safety while using vehicles
To ensure a safe and organized experience for everyone, vehicle users must adhere to the following instructions:
- Leaving any personal belongings inside the vehicle is prohibited, and management disclaims responsibility for any loss.
- You must remain seated in your assigned seat for the entire duration of the journey and not move around.
- It is strictly forbidden to put your hand or any part of your body outside the vehicle while it is moving.
- The beneficiary is responsible for the safety of his companions, especially children.
- The golf cart's maximum capacity is 10 passengers.
- During the complete Umrah journey, the vehicle stops for only 5 minutes to perform the two rak'ahs of Tawaf.
- Large bags and luggage are not allowed on board the trolley.
