Riyadh: The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has launched a challenge to develop improved personal umbrellas for pilgrims and Umrah performers, inviting innovators, designers, developers, and specialized organizations to submit innovative, implementable concepts.

According to Saudi Press Agency, the initiative aims to enhance the experience of the pilgrims and Umrah performers by improving comfort and safety during their movement. The ministry emphasized that the challenge is part of its ongoing efforts to enhance the experience of pilgrims and Umrah performers by developing practical solutions that meet their needs. The goal is to provide better sun protection, improve ease of use, enhance safety, and increase operational efficiency and product sustainability.

The challenge seeks the development of an innovative, implementable umbrella prototype that is lightweight, easy to carry and use, offers a high level of protection against ultraviolet rays, and can withstand climatic conditions and dense crowds. The design should also align with the visual identity of the holy sites and be suitable for large-scale production and deployment during the Hajj and Umrah seasons.

The ministry highlighted that the challenge focuses on developing practical, implementable solutions that improve the user experience of personal umbrellas, reduce heat stress during movement, and support the smooth flow in crowded areas. Additionally, it seeks to establish a unified visual identity for umbrellas used during the Hajj and Umrah seasons, aligning with efforts to enhance the services provided to pilgrims and Umrah performers.