The Makkah region in Saudi Arabia has embarked on a significant infrastructure development initiative with the launch of 20 road projects worth SAR1.4 billion ($373 million). With a total length of 385km, the projects aim to enhance connectivity and facilitate travel within the region.
Led by Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Deputy Prince of Makkah, the projects underscore the government’s commitment to modernizing transportation networks and supporting the needs of pilgrims visiting the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah.
Enhanced connectivity
The projects include a 24km direct road linking Jeddah to Makkah at an estimated cost of SAR431 million. In addition, the 90km Allaith-Makkah Road will be doubled at a cost of SAR169 million. The Bisha-Raniyah-Al-Khurma Road will be expanded too. These projects aim to improve accessibility to Makkah from various regions of the Kingdom, particularly during the Hajj and Umrah seasons.
Additionally, Makkah plans to double the 114km Bisha-Raniyah-Al-Khurma Road at a cost of SAR271 million. This will allow it to better serve travelers from the south and center of the Kingdom. The region will also initiate a project to double the 9km Al-Iwaa Center Road for SAR38 million to reduce traffic congestion, especially during the Hajj and Umrah seasons. The road will also undergo a lighting makeover.
Eng. Saleh Al-Jasser, the minister of transport and logistics and chairman of the board of directors of the Roads General Authority, and Eng. Badr Al-Dalami, acting CEO of the Roads General Authority, attended the launch event.
Read: WGS 2024: Dubai aims for 25 percent autonomous vehicles by 2030
The road projects represent a significant investment in infrastructure aimed at improving connectivity and enhancing the overall transportation experience for residents and visitors alike. Moreover, they align with the Kingdom’s vision to create a modern and efficient transportation system. By investing in transportation networks, the government aims to facilitate seamless travel experiences and contribute to the overall development and prosperity of the region.
For more news on logistics, click here.
