EVALUATION OF A ROAD TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT PLAN FOR MAKKAH, SAUDI ARABIA

摘要

Continued growth in both the permanent and pilgrim populations of Makkah in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is placing considerable strain on transport systems and the ability of the city to support the movement of people and goods. This is causing traffic congestion especially in the arterial roads. Umm Al-Qura Road is one of the highest-capacity arterial roads in Makkah. This study evaluates the current situation on this road using micro simulation techniques, with the purpose of providing viable alternatives to develop more efficient and effective solutions for the current and future traffic. The paper provides the engineers and managers of Makkah's road network with proper tools to assess and deal with the traffic congestion. Furthermore, the results presented herein doesn’t only affect the people of Makkah, but also the millions of Muslim pilgrims who visit the city every year.