Latest news with #GeneralAuthorityfortheCareoftheTwoHolyMosques
CairoScene
06-08-2025
- General
- CairoScene
Grand Mosque Expands Accessibility for Worshippers With Disabilities
The Grand Mosque in Makkah has introduced expanded accessibility measures, enhancing mobility and comfort for worshippers with physical, visual, or auditory impairments. The General Authority for the Care of the Two Holy Mosques has announced a set of upgrades at the Grand Mosque in Makkah aimed at improving access for worshippers with disabilities. The initiative includes new ramps, wheelchair lanes, and elevators designed for individuals with mobility challenges. Both manual and electric wheelchairs are being provided free of charge to support movement across the site. For worshippers with visual impairments, Qurans printed in Braille have been made available, along with navigational support in the form of guidance symbols and sensory pathways. Dedicated restrooms and prayer areas have also been adapted to meet a wider range of physical needs, incorporating updated technologies and tools such as hearing aids. Additional improvements include clear signage, marked pathways, directional guides, and informational stickers to help worshippers locate accessible services. The upgrades are part of an ongoing effort to ensure the Grand Mosque remains inclusive and comfortable for all visitors.
Miami Herald
26-06-2025
- General
- Miami Herald
On Its Centennial: The Occasion of Replacing the Kiswa of the Noble Kaaba Embodies the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's Enduring Care for the Two Holy Mosques
MAKKAH, SAUDI ARABIA, SA / ACCESS Newswire / June 26, 2025 / The General Authority for the Care of the Two Holy Mosques, represented by the King Abdulaziz Complex for the Holy Kaaba Kiswa, presided over the occasion of the replacing of the Kiswa on the first day of the month of Muharram (Hijri). This took place within an integrated operational system that reflects the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's willingness and dedication to serving the Two Holy Mosques-continuing a legacy of over 100 years of care in producing the Kiswa for the Ancient House. The occasion was conducted with meticulous organisation. As the previous Kiswa was carefully prepared for removal, the new Kiswa was raised and securely fastened to all sides of the Kaaba. Additionally, the door curtain embroidered with golden embellishments, lantern-shaped pieces, the belt, and samadiyah pieces were affixed-a scene embodying high craftsmanship and precision. The King Abdulaziz Complex for the Holy Kaaba Kiswa is the sole specialist entity responsible for the production of the Kiswa. The production stages are carried out within the complex through a precise production process that begins with the purification of water designated for dyeing, followed by automated weaving, printing, embroidery, and assembly. It concludes with quality assurance measures undertaken by 154 skilled Saudi specialists and technicians. During the production of the Kiswa-which weighs up to 1,415 kilograms-high-quality raw materials are utilised, including 825 kilograms of black-dyed natural silk and 410 kilograms of cotton. The Kiswa is embroidered with 120 kilograms of gold thread and 60 kilograms of silver thread. Additionally, it features 54 gold-coated pieces, comprising the belt, Quranic verses, the door curtain, lantern-shaped pieces, and embellishments surrounding the Mizab and corners. The Kiswa is adorned with 68 Quranic verses from 11 surahs, while the door curtain contains 763 words from the Quran. It is secured using 100 precisely positioned ropes, evenly distributed across all four sides of the Noble Kaaba. The Kiswa stands over 14 metres tall and is made up of five main parts-four of which cover each side of the Kaaba, while the fifth forms the door curtain, embroidered with Quranic verses in gold and silver threads, crafted using precise techniques and profound expertise. The occasion of replacing the Kiswa represents a continuation of the legacy established by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia since the time of its founder, King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud-may Allah have mercy upon him. It reaffirms the continuation of this blessed legacy under the direct care of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and his Deputy, His Royal Highness Crown Prince Muhammad bin Salman bin Abdulaziz-may Allah preserve them both. This initiative aligns with the national vision that emphasises excellence in the services provided to the visitors of the Sacred House of Allah. Source: About the Authority:An independent body overseeing the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque. Contact:(+966) 8254241 - (+966) 0148233610Unified Contact Centre: 1966 Contact Information The General Authority for the Care of the Two Holy Mosques Makkah(+966) 0148233610 SOURCE: The General Authority for the Care of The Two Holy Mosques press release
CairoScene
24-03-2025
- CairoScene
New Entry & Exit Routes Introduced at Grand Mosque
The measures aim to ease congestion as worshippers and Umrah pilgrims reach record numbers during the final days of Ramadan. The General Authority for the Care of the Two Holy Mosques has implemented a new series of entry and exit routes at the Grand Mosque in Makkah, designed to ease congestion and facilitate smoother crowd movement during the final ten days of Ramadan. With a record influx of worshippers and Umrah pilgrims expected, the authority has designated specific gates for primary access. These include the King Abdulaziz Gate (Gate 1), King Fahd Gate (Gate 79), and King Abdullah Gate (Gate 100), each identifiable by their accompanying minarets to guide incoming worshippers. Pilgrims heading to the Mataf area — the central open-air space surrounding the Kaaba where Tawaf (circumambulation) is performed — are now directed to use the Shubaika Bridge, Ajyad Bridge, and Al Arqam Bridge. The route adjustments aim to reduce crowding in interior corridors and ensure steady, organised movement within the mosque. Exit routes from the Al Masa'a area — the corridor between Safa and Marwah — have also been reorganised. New exit points from both the ground and first floors include Al Safa Gate (Gate 13), the Prophet Mohammed Gate, Al Marwah Gate, Al Marwah Bridge, and the Al Marwah Wheelchair Bridge. These improvements are intended to reduce bottlenecks in high-traffic areas and enhance the overall experience for worshippers during the peak of the holy month.
Gulf Insider
22-03-2025
- Gulf Insider
Saudi Arabia Implements New Entry And Exit Routes At Grand Mosque
With the final ten days of Ramadan drawing record numbers of worshippers and Umrah performers, the General Authority for the Care of the Two Holy Mosques has rolled out a series of organized entry and exit routes at the Grand Mosque in Mecca to ease crowd movement and prevent congestion during one of the holiest periods in the Islamic calendar. The authority has designated several main gates as primary access points for worshippers, making entry and exit more efficient. These gates, easily identifiable by their minarets, include King Abdulaziz Gate (1), King Fahd Gate (79), and King Abdullah Gate (100), which serve as the main entrances and exits for those visiting the mosque. To ensure ease of access to the Mataf area, where pilgrims perform Tawaf (circumambulation) around the Kaaba, worshippers are directed to use the Shubaika Bridge, Ajyad Bridge, and the Al Arqam Bridge—routes specifically intended to ease pressure on interior corridors and maintain a steady flow of movement. Exits from the Al Masa'a area, the pathway between Safa and Marwah, have also been strategically managed. Worshippers exiting from both the ground and first floors can use Al Safa Gate (Gate 13), the Prophet Mohammed Gate, Al Marwah Gate, Al Marwah Bridge, and the Al Marwah Wheelchair Bridge, providing multiple options and reducing bottlenecks in high-traffic zones.
Leaders
22-03-2025
- Leaders
Saudi Arabia Boosts Grand Mosque Services for Ramadan's Final 10 Days
The General Authority for the Care of the Two Holy Mosques has activated comprehensive plans to welcome worshippers during the last ten days of Ramadan. Initiatives include expanded facilities, sanitation, and crowd management systems, aiming to support a large number of worshipers during this time. Expanded Facilities and Services Teams have intensified efforts to sanitize prayer areas, replace carpets, and distribute Zamzam water. Over 20 daily oud-based perfuming rounds ensure a pristine environment. Additionally, 38 inquiry desks and rapid cleaning crews operate across the mosque. Moreover, to prevent overcrowding, the authority deployed 428 escalators, 28 elevators, and 1,300 speakers. Cooling systems powered by 90,000-ton energy sources maintain comfort. Special prayer zones for the elderly and disabled are also available. Specialized Care for Visitors Additionally, a 24/7 childcare center and ritual-assistance carts cater to families. Dedicated Itikaf areas and free luggage storage enhance convenience. Furthermore, a unified transport booking platform streamlines pilgrim movements. Thousands of staff and advanced equipment ensure seamless services. Real-time monitoring systems address concerns promptly, reflecting the authority's commitment to visitor satisfaction. Through meticulous planning, the authority aims to deliver a safe, comfortable worship experience during Islam's holiest nights. Short link : Post Views: 1
