Saudi Arabia Expands Rubber Walkways to Ease Pilgrim Movement for Hajj
Saudi Arabia increases rubber asphalt walkways by 33% to reduce foot injuries during Hajj.
In preparation for Hajj 2025, Saudi Arabia has expanded its use of rubber asphalt walkways in Arafat by 33%, bringing the total surface area to 16,000 square metres. The move is part of broader efforts to improve safety and accessibility during the pilgrimage, particularly for elderly participants, who made up over half of all pilgrims in 2023.
The newly expanded stretch connects Namirah Mosque to the Al-Mashaer train station, a key route for worshippers on the Day of Arafat. Traditional concrete surfaces have been linked to high rates of foot and ankle injuries during Hajj—accounting for around 38% of total injury cases, according to local health authorities.
Made from recycled rubber, the surface material is designed to reduce impact on joints and provide a more forgiving walking experience during the physically demanding pilgrimage. Officials say the walkways also contribute to sustainability goals outlined in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 programme by repurposing used tyres into public infrastructure.
As of May 21st, over 755,000 international pilgrims had already arrived in the Kingdom ahead of this year’s Hajj, with more expected in the coming weeks. The upgraded pathways form part of a broader series of logistical improvements being implemented across Makkah and the holy sites to accommodate the growing number of participants.
