Latest news with #GeneralAuthorityfortheAffairsoftheTwoHolyMosques
Arab News
31-03-2025
- Arab News
Worry-free worship: Children's clubs lighten pilgrims' load
MAKKAH: With more pilgrims making the journey to Makkah, a Children's Club initiative is offering a secure, fun space for youngsters, freeing parents to focus on their rituals. Childcare centers offering top-notch childcare services are available at the Two Holy Mosques, as well as hotels near the Grand Mosque. Razan Dahlawi, an adviser to the chairman of the General Authority for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques and a key figure overseeing the childcare centers, told Arab News: 'The authority established several childcare centers during the holy month of Ramadan this year. 'They operate 24/7 and seek to provide safe childcare services in an enriching environment by utilizing educational and recreational programs that develop children's capabilities and promote good values.' According to the authority, children can enjoy a packed schedule, with Qur'an and Athkar lessons, storytelling that informs and sparks imagination, sensory and creative activities, and healthy meals. These seasonal childcare centers are found in the third Saudi expansion (areas 12-15), facing gates 100 to 104. They welcome boys aged from 18 months to 6 years and girls from 18 months of age to 9 years. A specialized team of counselors oversees the centers, which include a dining area, a space for visual displays, educational models depicting the landmarks of the Two Holy Mosques and the process of performing the religious duties, as well as private sleeping rooms. Hotels near the Grand Mosque are stepping up, too, enhancing their own childcare offerings to ensure a level of service that matches their prime location. Abdullah Hazzazi, assistant front office manager at Dar Al-Tawhid Hotel, said that the Children's Club 'creates a secure and comfortable environment for children, allowing parents to perform Umrah without worrying about their little ones.' Entertainment and learning are combined under the supervision of childcare professionals, he added. 'The club features entertainment, educational activities, and games that contribute to their development and art workshops suitable for all ages, while also providing healthy meals and comprehensive medical care. 'We make sure to update parents regularly on their children's well-being, so they can perform the rites with peace of mind,' Hazzazi said. Hadeel Al-Harbi, Shaza Makkah Hotel's children's club manager, said that children are welcomed for up to two hours at a time, with the service free for hotel guests. 'We are keen to offer a variety of activities suitable for different age groups, including educational games, art workshops and entertaining activities that help develop children's skills and make use of their time there,' she said. Al-Harbi said that she would encourage all pilgrims to take advantage of the service. 'The club is an ideal solution for families seeking to comfortably and safely perform their rites,' she said.
Zawya
27-03-2025
- General
- Zawya
Over 3mln worshipers offer special prayers at Two Holy Mosques on 27th night of Ramadan
MAKKAH — More than three million worshipers thronged the Grand Mosque in Makkah and the Prophet's Mosque in Madinah to offer Isha and special night prayers of Taraweeh and Qiyamullail on the 27th night of Ramadan on Wednesday, which is widely believed to be Laylatul Qadr, the Night of Power. All the floors of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque and their courtyards were full of worshipers, and the rows of worshipers spilled over to the streets of the central Haram areas. In an unparalleled spiritual ambience that the fasting month has offered, the faithful engaged in supplications, seeking Laylatul Qadr and the infinite blessings and forgiveness from Almighty God. The Holy Qur'an was revealed to the Prophet (peace be up on him) in the Night of Power which is better than a thousand months. At the Grand Mosque, worshipers attended the Isha and special night prayers of Taraweeh and Qiyamullail that ended with the special supplication, led by Sheikh Abdurahman Al-Sudais, head of the General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques. The tears of pilgrims and worshippers in the Grand Mosque mingled with the rain of mercy that fell heavily in the courtyards of the Holy Mosque. The faithful performed their prayers under the rain, raising their hands to the sky in supplication to God, seeking His mercy and forgiveness. The General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques has implemented a foolproof operational plan and integrated services for the faithful. The authority has mobilized all its human and mechanical resources to facilitate the smooth and orderly flow of pilgrims and worshipers within the Grand Mosque in coordination with all the concerned agencies and security forces. There was a steady influx of Umrah pilgrims and worshippers arriving at the Grand Mosque and its courtyards from the early morning hours. All areas within the mosque, including its corridors, floors, rooftops, courtyards, basement, and the Third Saudi Expansion, were filled with worshippers, enabling them to perform their prayers and rituals in an environment of faith, serenity, security and peace. Copies of the Holy Qur'an in multiple languages were accessible, cleaning efforts were intensified, and the operation of loudspeakers, ventilation fans, and air-conditioning systems were optimized for the comfort of worshippers. Golf carts, regular carts, and electric carts were provided through the "Tanaqol' app, operating efficiently according to systematic plans. The Makkah region's health affairs department enhanced its services by deploying medical centers within the Grand Mosque and its courtyards, ensuring that pilgrims received the necessary medical care when needed. More than 400 scouts from the Saudi Arabian Boy Scouts Association contributed to the crowd management inside the Grand Mosque. This effort was made in cooperation with the General Authority for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques, the Makkah Health Cluster, and Public Security. They guided those lost, directed pilgrims to their destinations, managed crowds, facilitated movement, and reduced congestion, especially in densely populated areas. This helped enhance the comfort of pilgrims and facilitate the smooth performance of their rituals. The scout units also provided qualitative support to the healthcare sector, supporting health centers and hospitals in Ajyad and the Grand Mosque by guiding patients and providing emergency support to medical teams, as part of integrated efforts aimed at improving the level of services provided to pilgrims. At the Prophet's Mosque, the prayer halls were filled early in the morning with worshippers from within and outside the Kingdom. The General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques, in coordination with various departments and relevant authorities, has been keen to fully prepare the Prophet's Mosque and put in place all necessary arrangements to maintain the safety and comfort of the faithful. This included getting ready of prayer areas with carpets, purification and cleaning services, fumigation and perfuming, provision of Zamzam water to worshippers, environmental protection services, care for facilities and restrooms, and the provision of trolley services and a monitoring and reporting system to achieve a high level of satisfaction with the services provided to visitors to the mosque. © Copyright 2022 The Saudi Gazette. All Rights Reserved. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Leaders
18-03-2025
- General
- Leaders
Ramadan Generosity: Nearly 11M Iftar Meals Served at the Two Holy Mosques
During the first half of Ramadan, Saudi authorities served nearly 11 million iftar meals to pilgrims and worshippers at the Two Holy Mosques in Makkah and Madinah. This initiative showcases the Kingdom's commitment to hospitality during this sacred month. The General Authority for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques announced a substantial provision. As of the 17th day of Ramadan, they have distributed a remarkable total of 10,822,999 iftar meals. Additionally, they provided 10,290,000 packets of dates to enhance the iftar experience. Increased Demand from Pilgrims This year's increased number of pilgrims contributed significantly to the rising demand for iftar meals. The authority noted that the number of meals served has grown due to a notable surge in Umrah pilgrims. This effort ensures that visitors can break their fast with dignity and community spirit. The authority emphasizes strict health standards in the designated iftar areas within the mosques. These measures aim to guarantee the safety of all worshippers. This commitment to health reaffirms the Kingdom's dedication to providing a safe environment during the holy month. Innovative Online Service for Donations Ahead of Ramadan, the authority launched an innovative online service. Individuals, charitable organizations, and endowments can now submit requests to donate iftar meals for the Grand Mosque. This initiative allows more people to participate in the noble cause of providing meals during Ramadan. The distribution of nearly 11 million iftar meals reflects Saudi Arabia's hospitality and commitment to serving pilgrims. As the holy month continues, the authority remains dedicated to ensuring a smooth experience for worshippers at the Two Holy Mosques. This initiative not only fulfills a religious obligation but also strengthens the bonds of community and generosity among participants. Short link : Post Views: 1
Express Tribune
05-02-2025
- Health
- Express Tribune
Online portal launched for Iftar distribution permission for Madina
Listen to article The General Authority for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques has introduced an online portal for individuals and organizations wishing to provide iftar meals at Masjid an-Nabawi during the blessed month of Ramadan. According to Arab media reports, this portal will facilitate the registration of those who seek the honor of serving iftar to fasting individuals. Only companies approved by the authority will be granted permits for iftar distribution, and a list of these authorized entities will be publicly available. The General Authority emphasized that the registration system aims to ensure that iftar distribution is carried out in an organized and dignified manner. The collected data will help improve logistical arrangements, prevent overcrowding, and minimize food waste. It is worth noting that last month, the authority launched a similar portal for iftar distribution in Makkah. Through this system, individuals and organizations were allowed to select from ten designated service sites for meal distribution. Additionally, the authority has issued a reminder to ensure that iftar meals are suitable for people with chronic illnesses, including diabetes, by incorporating low-calorie food options. This initiative is part of broader efforts to enhance the management and efficiency of Ramadan services at the holy sites, ensuring a smooth and spiritually enriching experience for worshippers.
