New security plan for Grand Mosque in Makkah

Security forces are taking additional measures to control crowds and prevent stampedes inside the Grand Mosque in Makkah during Ramadan, says a top official.
Maj. Gen. Saad Al-Khelaiwi, commander of special forces for Umrah security, also advised people of special needs, especially those on wheelchairs, to avoid visits during peak hours.
Police will not allow wheelchairs to enter the mosque during peak hours, he told a press conference. He called upon Makkah residents to pray at other mosques to prevent congestion at the Grand Mosque.
Al-Khelaiwi said the security measures were being introduced due to shortage of space in the mataf (circumambulation area around the Holy Kaaba) as a result of the ongoing expansion work, which has reduced its capacity from 48,000 to 22,000 per hour.
“When we see any potential danger as a result of congestion inside the mosque, security forces will be instructed to divert worshippers to less crowded areas outside the mosque,” he said.
Courtyards of the mosque’s new expansion, which can hold more than 250,000, will be utilized to accommodate more people.
He said vehicles coming to the central region of Makkah would also be diverted to other areas to avoid traffic congestion.
“We request people of special needs not to come during this holy month to the Grand Mosque. If they are still keen to visit, avoid peak hours and come during 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.”