RIYADH: Saudi Arabia is set to introduce a cable car system by 2025, designed to improve access to the Cave of Hira, a site of profound religious significance situated on Mecca’s Jabal Al Noor. This ambitious initiative aims to enrich the pilgrimage experience by connecting visitors to the cave, which is approximately 634 meters above sea level and about 4 kilometers from the Grand Mosque.
The Cave of Hira is revered as the location where Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) received his first revelation, making it a site of immense spiritual importance for Muslims. The new cable car system is part of a broader development plan that includes the completion of the Hira Cultural District and the establishment of three new museums in Jabal Omar, all scheduled for the same year. Additionally, the Mount Thor Cultural District, an integrated neighborhood offering various services, will also debut in 2025.
Jabal Al Noor, known as the Mountain of Light, is distinguished by its camel’s hump-like shape and steep slopes. The cave, which can accommodate up to five people, has historically been challenging to access due to the rugged terrain. Recent infrastructure improvements, including a paved road, have made visits somewhat easier, but the cable car system will significantly enhance accessibility.
Fawaz Al-Muhrej, CEO of Samaya Investment Company, which is spearheading the project, confirmed that the cable car system is on track to open in 2025, with final preparations currently underway. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah emphasized the cultural and historical significance of Mount Al Noor and the Cave of Hira, highlighting the project’s role in facilitating a more accessible pilgrimage experience.
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