Cooling White Roads in Arafat: 25,000 square meters around Namirah mosque are being covered in a cool pavement material that absorbs less solar radiation than regular materials
Cooling White Roads in Arafat
An asphalt surface cooling initiative has been expanded to the area surrounding the Namirah Mosque in Arafat, the Roads General Authority said on Thursday.
25,000 square meters around the mosque, the second largest in the Makkah region after the Grand Mosque, are being covered in a cool pavement material that absorbs less solar radiation than regular materials.
During the day, roads absorb heat that can reach up to 70°C. Roads then release this heat at night, causing a phenomenon known as the “Urban heat island effect” which leads to increased energy consumption and air pollution.
“Cool pavements,” made from locally produced materials capable of absorbing less solar radiation by reflecting it, are being used to lower surface temperatures, the authority said.
Using the “cool pavements” material around the Namirah Mosque, where many pilgrims will pray the Dhuhr and Asr prayers on the second day of Hajj and its pinnacle, will reduce the temperature around them while they walk
A key feature of this expansion is the completion of a 4,000-metre cooled pedestrian walkway leading directly to Mount Arafat. This pathway has been engineered with the needs of elderly pilgrims and people with disabilities in mind. It includes 16,000 square metres of flexible rubber asphalt—an increase of 33% compared to previous years—improving shock absorption and stability under intense foot traffic. The walkway connects the Namira Mosque to the Arafat Train Station and is designed to minimize vibration, enhance safety, and ease the burden of walking long distances in high temperatures.
The Roads Research Centre has confirmed the durability and usability of the rubberized surfaces through comprehensive testing, ensuring they are suitable for the millions of pilgrims expected during Hajj.
Adding to both environmental sustainability and spiritual well-being, a 1,200-metre green corridor has also been introduced. Developed in partnership with the Abdulrahman Fakieh Charitable Foundation, this shaded path includes trees, drinking fountains, and mist-cooling systems—creating a space of relief and reflection for pilgrims en route to Mount Arafat.
These upgrades are part of a broader vision to enrich the pilgrim experience while addressing the challenges of climate and crowd management, helping millions fulfill their sacred journey with greater ease and dignity.
Ref : Arab news
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