The “Masar Destination” Project stands as one of the most ambitious initiatives in the city of Makkah Al-Mukarramah, designed to deliver a transformative leap in infrastructure and public services in alignment with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. Developed and owned by Umm Al Qura for Development and Construction, this flagship project is crafted to serve both the city’s residents and its millions of visitors — pilgrims and Umrah performers alike — offering a fully integrated urban experience complying with world-class standards.
About Masar Destination
Masar is a master-planned development spanning 1.25 million square metres, comprising a series of integrated projects that aim to redefine the western entrance to Makkah Al-Mukarramah. Central to the plan is the enhancement of public transport networks and the creation of modern transit infrastructure. The Grand Mosque, or Al-Haram Al-Makki Al-Sharif, boasts a seamless link via advanced transport connections which include two Haramain Metro stations. With this project in place, the development is poised to become a model of accessibility and liveability, directly supporting Vision 2030’s objectives.
Infrastructure and Key Specifications
The “Masar Destination” project extends along a 3,650-metre main pedestrian spine, serving as the beating heart of Makkah’s western corridor. Within its scope are vital hospitality and residential facilities, including 24,660 hotel rooms, 13,113 serviced apartments and 13,687 private residences — accommodation options catering to a diverse audience of international visitors, pilgrims, Umrah performers and local residents. Each element is being delivered to exceptional standards, blending modern comforts with the city’s unique spiritual significance.
A Strategic Location
Positioned in one of Makkah’s most advantageous locations — Makkah Al-Mukarramah — Masar is bordered to the west by the Third Ring Road (Othman bin Affan Road) and extends to the First Ring Road (Abu Bakr Al Siddiq Road) at the western boundary of the Grand Mosque’s courtyards. It lies a mere 550 metres from Al-Haram Al-Makki and just 100 metres from the Haramain Train Station, with Jeddah only 70 kilometres away. This exceptional access makes Masar a vital connection point for pilgrims and a prime location for hospitality and commerce.
Development Objectives
The vision for Masar extends beyond physical infrastructure. The project aims to:
- Deliver a fully integrated public transport network, successfully facilitating mobility for residents and visitors.
- Construct dedicated pedestrian bridges and crossings to separate foot traffic from vehicles, enhancing safety and efficiency.
- Introduce advanced public transport services, including shuttle buses to the central area and the Makkah Metro line serving the Masar corridor.
These measures will significantly boost traffic flow and expand the city’s capacity to welcome larger numbers of pilgrims in the years ahead.
In Step with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030
Masar directly contributes to two cornerstone Vision 2030 programmes — Serving the Guests of God and Quality of Life. By offering a wide range of accommodation and leisure facilities, it strengthens the tourism sector’s readiness for the rising influx of pilgrims, Umrah performers and visitors. The master plan integrates cultural and entertainment spaces, dining venues and pedestrian routes, all aimed at enriching the quality of life in Makkah Al-Mukarramah and reaffirming its position as a global spiritual and cultural centre.
Strategic Partnerships
Since its establishment, Umm Al Qura for Development and Construction has nurtured strong partnerships with key public and private sector entities to ensure Masar’s delivery meets the highest standards of integrated services. Notable partners include the Saudi National Grid, the National Water Company, the Advanced Electronics and Communications Systems Company, and prominent real estate and investment firms such as Caden Investments and Al Zamil Real Estate. These partnerships are fundamental in creating a seamless, world-class destination and achieving the project’s long-term goals.
Challenges and Opportunities
Given its scale and ambition, Masar presents a complex logistical undertaking requiring meticulous coordination across multiple sectors. Even so, it also opens substantial investment avenues for investors wishing to be part of Makkah Al-Mukarramah’s urban transformation. With 205 development land plots available, investors can explore diverse opportunities. Its strategic location and advanced infrastructure also position Masar as a highly attractive proposition for both domestic and international stakeholders.
Innovation and Technology
Technology and innovation sit at the heart of Masar’s design philosophy. The infrastructure incorporates smart city solutions, including advanced power, water and telecommunications networks, a central cooling system, rainwater drainage, waste collection systems and fully integrated irrigation and sewage networks. These measures ensure environmental sustainability while supporting the long-term operational efficiency of the city.
Masar Destination represents an important step towards Vision 2030, delivering an integrated urban model — aligned with the latest standards — that enhances Makkah Al-Mukarramah’s position as a global destination. Through its strategic partnerships, intelligent infrastructure and commitment to enriching both spiritual and everyday life, it is set to become one of the Kingdom’s most pioneering projects.
