The Public Investment Fund (PIF) has announced it is preparing to launch Rou'a Al Haram, a development company set to increase capacity for pilgrims and visitors to the Grand Holy Mosque performing Hajj or Umrah. Rou'a Al Haram will act as a catalyst for developing the areas around the holy sites and raising the quality of services in the local hospitality sector. The company's establishment is in line with Vision 2030, which aims to provide an opportunity for the largest possible number of Muslims to perform Hajj and Umrah, and to enrich and deepen their experience through the development of the Two Holy Mosques. The number of people visiting Makkah is expected to reach more than 30 million by 2030. The first phase of the company's projects will cover an area of 854,000 square meters, delivering 115 buildings of various architectural designs. 70,000 new hotel rooms will enable the site to receive 310,000 visitors per day. In addition, the first phase will see the development of around 9,000 residential units, 360,000 square meters of commercial space and prayer areas designated for more than 400,000 worshipers. The project will take place only 1,430 meters away from the Holy Kaaba. Rou'a Al Haram will raise the level of development in the areas surrounding the Grand Holy Mosque, making it among the best examples of development worldwide. In addition, it will support job creation and investment as part of a wider plan to diversify the national economy. Initial preparation works are currently underway, with construction due to start in 2018. The first phase of the project is anticipated to launch in 2024. The projects will create around 160,000 job opportunities by 2030, with an estimated annual contribution to GDP of SAR 8 billion.
