Performing Umrah is a deeply spiritual experience, but it can also be physically demanding. Tawaf around the Kaaba and Sa’i between Safa and Marwah involve long distances and dense crowds. For elderly pilgrims, people with mobility issues, injuries, or temporary weakness, walking the entire route may not be possible.
To ensure that no one is deprived of this sacred journey, the Government of Saudi Arabia provides a free wheelchair service inside Masjid al-Haram. This service allows pilgrims to perform Umrah with dignity, comfort, and ease—without any cost.
This guide explains exactly how you can get a free wheelchair for Umrah in Makkah, where to find it, how the process works, and practical tips to make your experience smooth.
What Is the Free Wheelchair Service at Masjid al-Haram?
The free wheelchair service is an official facility managed inside Al-Masjid al-Haram for pilgrims who cannot complete Umrah on foot.
What the service offers:
- Manual wheelchairs provided free of charge
- Use inside Masjid al-Haram only
- Designed specifically for Tawaf and Sa’i
- Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
- Managed by trained and helpful staff
This service has helped thousands of elderly and physically challenged pilgrims complete Umrah peacefully.
Where to Find the Free Wheelchair Pickup Point
The main and most commonly used free wheelchair pickup point is located at:
- Plaza Point near Al-Shubaika Bridge
- Inside the Al-Haram complex
- Close to entrances leading toward the Mas’a (Sa’i) area
How to reach it easily:
- Ask any Haram security staff or volunteer for “Free Wheel Chair”
- Follow signs pointing toward Safa and Marwah
- Use Google Maps and search for “Free Wheel Chair – Masjid al-Haram”
Staff inside the mosque are very cooperative and will guide you if you are unsure.
Step-by-Step: How to Get a Free Wheelchair for Umrah
The process is simple and straightforward.
Step 1: Go to the Free Wheelchair Counter
Visit the free wheelchair pickup point near Al-Shubaika Bridge or other designated locations inside Al-Haram.
Step 2: Register Your Name
At the counter, inform the staff that you need a wheelchair for Umrah.
You will be asked to:
- Provide your full name
- Leave a valid ID (usually a passport or official ID) as a deposit
Step 3: Receive the Wheelchair
Once registered:
- You’ll receive a manual wheelchair
- The staff may briefly explain usage rules
- You can immediately proceed to Tawaf and Sa’i
Step 4: Perform Umrah
Use the wheelchair to:
- Complete Tawaf (usually on upper floors or designated wheelchair paths)
- Complete Sa’i between Safa and Marwah using the marked wheelchair lane
Step 5: Return the Wheelchair
After finishing Umrah:
- Return the wheelchair to the same pickup point
- Collect your ID back
- This helps ensure availability for other pilgrims
Important Rules You Must Follow
To keep the service running smoothly for everyone:
- The wheelchair is free, but not for personal use
- It must be used only inside Masjid al-Haram
- Do not take it outside the mosque
- Return it immediately after completing Umrah
- Follow staff instructions at all times
Wheelchairs are provided as a waqf (shared charitable service), so responsible use is essential.
Who Can Benefit Most from This Service?
This service is especially helpful for:
- Elderly pilgrims
- People with mobility difficulties
- Those with knee, back, or joint pain
- Pilgrims recovering from surgery or injury
- Pregnant women with limited mobility
- Anyone physically unable to complete Umrah on foot
Families often use this service so elderly parents can perform Umrah comfortably.
Best Time to Get a Free Wheelchair
Although the service runs 24/7, demand varies.
Recommended times:
- Late night
- Early morning (after Fajr)
- Non-peak weekdays
High-demand times:
- Ramadan
- Hajj season
- Fridays
- After Maghrib and Isha prayers
Tip: Arrive early during busy periods to avoid long queues.
Do You Need Someone to Push the Wheelchair?
Yes. These are manual wheelchairs, so:
- A family member or companion should push the wheelchair
- If the pilgrim cannot push themselves, assistance is necessary
If you don’t have someone to help, consider paid electric scooter services inside Al-Haram.
Alternative Option: Paid Electric Wheelchairs
For pilgrims who need extra comfort or don’t have someone to push them:
- Electric scooters are available at separate counters
- Suitable for Tawaf only or Tawaf + Sa’i
- Faster and less physically demanding
- Available for a fee
However, for many families, the free manual wheelchair remains the most practical and cost-effective option.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Experience
- Arrive early during peak times
- Wear non-slip shoes if you are pushing the wheelchair
- Stay hydrated, especially during long rituals
- Keep a photo of your ID if it’s left as a deposit
- Follow designated wheelchair paths to avoid congestion
- Be patient and respectful—crowds are part of the journey
Final Thoughts
The free wheelchair service at Masjid al-Haram is a thoughtful initiative that ensures no pilgrim is left behind due to physical limitations. Whether you are caring for an elderly parent or assisting someone with mobility challenges, this service allows Umrah to be performed with comfort, dignity, and peace of mind.
With proper planning and awareness, accessing a free wheelchair in Makkah is simple and stress-free. May Allah accept your Umrah and grant you a safe, smooth, and spiritually fulfilling journey.
