Roads General Authority Finalises Preparations For Safe Hajj Pilgrim Travel Across The Kingdom

The Roads General Authority (RGA) has completed its preparations for the Hajj season 1446H, ensuring safe and efficient travel for pilgrims throughout Saudi Arabia. Teams are strategically placed across the road network to provide a secure journey for all visitors. Early preparations included detailed inspections of roads leading to holy sites.

Significant infrastructure improvements have been made, including 234.21 km of new roads and maintenance of 7,401.5 km of existing ones. The RGA installed 125,591 reflective studs and 1,622 directional and warning signs. Additionally, 24,255 km of road markings were applied, along with the installation of 41.6 km of safety barriers.

To further enhance safety and manage traffic demands, over 20 modern technologies and two innovations have been introduced. These include the deployment of 300 road monitors working around the clock to ensure smooth traffic flow. Five intersections have been upgraded, and 150 lighting poles have been fitted.

The RGA is fully mobilized to improve the pilgrim experience using the world's largest AI-driven road survey fleet. This includes equipment for damage mapping, skid resistance testing, deviation inspection, roughness index testing, drone-based assessments, and paint quality tests. These advanced technologies enable precise evaluations.

The Kingdom's extensive road network spans over 73,000 km, playing a crucial role in connecting holy sites with regions across the country. This network supports economic, tourist, and social movement. The RGA's efforts have elevated Saudi Arabia's ranking in infrastructure quality to fourth among G20 nations.

Strategic Coordination for Pilgrim Services

The RGA coordinates this essential sector through appropriate policies and legislation to achieve strategic ambitions focused on safety and quality management. The authority’s commitment is evident in its ongoing service to pilgrims traveling via Saudi Arabia's roads during Hajj and Umrah seasons.

Saudi Arabia ranks first globally in road connectivity and first in the Arab region for warning vibration technologies. These achievements underscore the authority’s dedication to maintaining high standards in infrastructure development and traffic management.

With inputs from SPA