Extensive planning by Saudi authorities aims to ensure a smooth and safe Ramadan experience for worshippers across the kingdom.
In a series of recently announced measures, the Ministry of Islamic Affairs revealed that iftar banquets, traditionally held inside mosques, will be relocated to designated areas outside this year. This change prioritizes maintaining cleanliness within places of worship. Imams will be responsible for overseeing the post-iftar cleanup in these designated zones.
Iftar Sufras will continue to be served in the Two Holy Mosques during the month of #Ramadan.
— Inside the Haramain (@insharifain) March 3, 2024
There is no truth in the rumours pic.twitter.com/96iOKbuIqj
An exception exists for the holy mosques in Makkah and Madinah, where iftar meals will continue to be served within the buildings. The General Presidency for the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque has launched an online portal to facilitate the application process for organizations seeking to provide iftar meals inside these mosques.
Maintenance of the kiswah in preparations of the holy month of Ramadan. pic.twitter.com/OTvqMqx4L4
— Inside the Haramain (@insharifain) March 5, 2024
Embracing technology and enhancing accessibility are also key aspects of the preparations. The Grand Mosque’s 5G network has been expanded to cover the Well of Zamzam and the King Fahd expansion’s basement. This upgrade aims to improve the quality of live religious broadcasts on the Manarat Al Haramain digital platform.
Furthermore, ten wheelchair stations with around-the-clock assistance will be available inside the Grand Mosque during Ramadan. Additionally, free wheelchair services will be offered for elderly individuals and those with disabilities within the circumambulation area.
Maintaining hygiene remains a top priority, with over 13,500 cleaning staff and 700 pest control specialists deployed throughout the Makkah site. In Madinah, the General Authority has undertaken the task of replacing carpets within the Prophet’s Mosque.
To ease traffic congestion and reduce emissions, a fleet of 200 modern buses will be dedicated to transporting pilgrims to and from the Prophet’s Mosque throughout Ramadan. The Madinah Region Development Authority expects this initiative to further enhance the pedestrian experience in areas surrounding the mosque.
These comprehensive measures demonstrate Saudi Arabia’s commitment to ensuring a safe, secure, and accessible Ramadan experience for worshippers across the kingdom.
Read also: New Ramadan 2024 Iftar Rules Announced for Mecca’s Grand Mosque
