Makkah Challenge Seeks Smarter Umbrellas for Pilgrims

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has launched a challenge in Makkah inviting innovators, designers, developers and specialised organisations to develop improved personal umbrellas for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims.

The initiative aims to enhance the experience of pilgrims by improving comfort and safety during movement. According to the ministry, proposed designs should offer better protection from the sun, improve ease of use, strengthen safety features and increase operational efficiency and product sustainability, while helping reduce heat stress in crowded areas.

The challenge also seeks to establish a unified visual identity for umbrellas used during the Hajj and Umrah seasons, supporting broader efforts to standardise equipment and services across the holy sites.

Participants are required to develop a lightweight, easy-to-carry umbrella prototype that provides a high level of ultraviolet protection, withstands harsh weather conditions and remains practical in densely crowded environments. Designs should also align with the visual identity of the holy sites and be suitable for large-scale manufacturing and deployment during future Hajj and Umrah seasons.