Makkah: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has opened a challenge inviting innovators, designers, developers and specialised companies to develop innovative personal umbrellas that improve the experience of pilgrims performing Haj and Umrah. The ministry said the challenge supports its efforts to improve services for the Guests of Allah in line with Saudi Vision 2030. Ministry seeks practical prototypesParticipants are required to design a working umbrella prototype that is lightweight, easy to carry and simple to use. Entries will be judged on user experience, safety and crowd management, design quality, sustainability, innovation and practical feasibility. According to the ministry, the initiative aims to identify solutions that reduce heat stress, improve movement in crowded areas and establish a unified visual identity for umbrellas used by Haj and Umrah pilgrims.