Latest news with #GrandMosque
Asharq Al-Awsat
5 hours ago
- General
- Asharq Al-Awsat
Pilgrims Fill Tent City as Arafat Prepares for Key Hajj Rite
The tent city of Mina, considered the world's largest, sprang back to life on Wednesday as nearly two million Muslims began their Hajj journey, marking the Day of Tarwiyah in spiritual preparation for the days ahead. Pilgrims, dressed in simple white garments, filled the sprawling encampment that is inhabited only during the annual Islamic pilgrimage. They spent the day in prayer and reflection, seeking closeness to God, forgiveness, and acceptance, following the traditions of the Prophet Muhammad. At dawn on Thursday, the mass of worshippers moved to Mount Arafat for the pinnacle of the Hajj – the Day of Arafat – considered the most significant ritual of the pilgrimage. There, pilgrims will stand in solemn prayer on the sacred plain, performing shortened and combined noon and afternoon prayers after listening to the Arafat sermon. This year's sermon at Namira Mosque will be delivered by Sheikh Dr. Saleh bin Humaid, Imam of the Grand Mosque in Makkah. The Presidency for Religious Affairs at the Two Holy Mosques has made the sermon accessible in seven languages through real-time translations, aiming to reach a global audience. Moreover, Saudi authorities have deployed extensive security, medical, food supply, and transport services to ease the journey for nearly two million pilgrims performing Hajj this year, emphasizing safety, organization, and spiritual focus. The Saudi leadership reaffirmed the importance of coordinated efforts by all government and service agencies to ensure the success of the pilgrimage season and to provide a tranquil and secure environment for worshippers. Health Minister Fahad Abdulrahman AlJalajel inspected Arafat's Jabal Al-Rahma Hospital on Wednesday, reviewing emergency facilities, medical departments, and the readiness of healthcare personnel. The visit aimed to ensure high-quality medical services and a safe environment for pilgrims as they prepare for the pivotal Day of Arafat. The health system continues to ramp up efforts to enhance readiness and deliver integrated care across all Hajj sites, aiming to maintain safety and wellbeing throughout the pilgrimage. With temperatures soaring across Makkah and the holy sites during the Hajj season, Saudi Arabia's Health Ministry has urged pilgrims to take extra precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses. The ministry advised worshippers to carry umbrellas, stay well-hydrated, wear comfortable walking shoes, and use medical ID bracelets indicating any health conditions. Officials warned that extreme heat could cause sunstroke and lead to loss of consciousness in as little as 10 to 15 minutes if proper precautions are not taken.
News.com.au
9 hours ago
- Climate
- News.com.au
Over 1.5 million pilgrims begin hajj under blazing sun
More than 1.5 million pilgrims joined Islam's most important rite under a beating sun on Wednesday, as the hajj kicked off with the Saudi hosts scrambling to avoid last year's 1,000-plus deaths in sweltering heat. With temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit), robed pilgrims slowly circled the Kaaba, the black cube at the heart of Mecca's Grand Mosque which is Islam's holiest site. Others arrived en masse in the sprawling tent city of Mina on Mecca's outskirts, where they will stay overnight before the hajj's high-point Thursday -- prayers on Mount Arafat, where the Prophet Mohammed is believed to have delivered his final sermon. "You feel like you're not in this world," Khitam, a 63-year-old pilgrim, told AFP by phone, saying that "before hajj, I used to watch the Grand Mosque on TV all day." Before entering Mecca, pilgrims must first enter a state of purity, called ihram, which requires special dress and behaviour. Men don a seamless shroud-like white garment that emphasises unity among believers, regardless of their social status or nationality. Women, in turn, wear loose dresses exposing just their faces and hands. Authorities said over 1.5 million pilgrims had arrived in Saudi Arabia for the hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam that must be performed at least once by all Muslims with the means. Officials have ratcheted up heat protection measures such as extra shade to avoid a repeat of last year, when 1,301 people died as temperatures hit 51.8C. "Last year, the heat was extremely intense, and people were lying on the streets, on the middle of the road and next to the walls," Alaa Refai, a pilgrim from Iraq, told AFP, adding that he saw several dead people during the previous hajj. "This year the roads are empty," he added. - Artificial intelligence - Following last year's lethal heatwave, authorities have mobilised more than 40 government agencies and 250,000 officials to improve protection. Shaded areas have been enlarged by 50,000 square metres (12 acres), thousands of additional medics will be on standby and more than 400 cooling units will be deployed, Hajj Minister Tawfiq al-Rabiah told AFP last week. Artificial intelligence technology will help process the deluge of data, including video from a new fleet of drones, to better manage the massive crowds. "The scene in Mina this year was completely different. We noticed that most pilgrims kept to their... tents instead of exposing themselves to the sun," Ibrahim bin Saleh Al-Mazni, from the Al-Furqan group for hajj tours, told AFP from Mina. "This reflects the success of the awareness campaign" of authorities he added, which have been striving to dissuade pilgrims from staying in the sun -- with many faithful believing hardship was essential to hajj. Earlier this week, Saudi authorities called on pilgrims to stay inside their tents between 10:00 am and 4:00 pm on Thursday during the hajj's climax at Mount Arafat, when the desert sun is at its harshest. There, pilgrims assemble on the high hill and its surrounding plain for hours of prayer and Koran recital, staying there until the evening. There is little to no shade on Mount Arafat, leaving pilgrims directly exposed to the blistering desert sun for hours. - 'No hajj without permit' - Authorities said most of the deaths last year were among unregistered pilgrims who lacked access to air-conditioned tents and buses. This year, they have cracked down on the unregistered, using frequent raids, drone surveillance and a barrage of text alerts. A billboard reading "No hajj without permit" greeted pilgrims as they arrived in Mecca. Hajj permits are allocated to countries on a quota basis and distributed to individuals by lottery. But even for those who can obtain them, the steep costs prompt many to attempt the hajj without a permit, even though they risk arrest and deportation if caught. Large crowds at the hajj have proved hazardous in the past, most notably in 2015 when a stampede during the "stoning the devil" ritual in Mina killed up to 2,300 people in the deadliest hajj disaster. Saudi Arabia earns billions of dollars a year from the hajj, and the lesser pilgrimage known as umrah, undertaken at other times of the year.
Leaders
a day ago
- General
- Leaders
Saudi Arabia to Broadcast Arafat Sermon Live in 34 Global Languages
Saudi Arabia will broadcast its Arafat Sermon in real-time in 34 languages this year, aiming to reach all Muslims worldwide. This initiative marks the first time Saudi authorities have undertaken such an effort to ensure that pilgrims worldwide can understand the Arafat Sermon, traditionally delivered in Arabic. The Arafat Sermon, delivered on the Day of Arafat, represents a key ritual of the Hajj pilgrimage. Millions of Muslims worldwide follow this significant event. On 5 June, more than two million pilgrims from around the globe will gather on the plains of Mount Arafat to perform the Day of Arafat, engaging in supplication and prayer. Comprehensive Translation Project In an official announcement, the General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque confirmed the completion of preparations for the Arafat sermon translation project. This year, the Grand Imam of the Holy Mosques, Sheikh Saleh al Humaid, will deliver the sermon from Masjid Namirah. The project aims to convey Islam's message of tolerance to a global audience in their native languages. This initiative fosters better communication between Muslims and non-Muslims, highlighting the Kingdom's pivotal role in serving the two holy mosques. The project will provide real-time translation of the Arafat sermon in over 34 languages, making it one of the largest initiatives of the Hajj season. The authority emphasized that this effort underscores Saudi Arabia's unwavering commitment to supporting pilgrims worldwide. A key feature of the project includes the integration of Quick Response (QR) codes. These codes will offer easy access to both textual and audio translations, enhancing the experience for pilgrims. Languages Available for Broadcast The Arafat Sermon will be broadcast in the following 34 languages: Arabic, Urdu, English, French, Indonesian, Persian (Farsi), Hausa, Chinese (Mandarin), Russian, Bengali, Turkish, Malay (Bahasa Melayu), Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, German, Filipino (Tagalog), Amharic (Ethiopia), Bosnian, Hindi, Dutch, Thai, Malayalam, Swahili, Pashto, Tamil, Azerbaijani, Swedish, Uzbek, Albanian, Fulani (Fula), Somali, Rohingya, and Yoruba. This extensive range enables pilgrims to listen to the sermon in their respective languages, regardless of their location. To expand the reach and amplify the impact of this service, authorities will display QR codes on screens in key facilities, buses, and pilgrim accommodations. Additionally, the government has promoted the service through various media platforms and shared it with international media in coordination with the Saudi Ministry of Media. This initiative represents a significant milestone in Hajj history, showcasing Saudi Arabia's commitment to leveraging technology for religious services. By providing real-time translations, the Kingdom ensures that the spiritual experience of Hajj is accessible to all pilgrims, regardless of their linguistic background. This effort not only facilitates better understanding but also promotes unity and tolerance among Muslims worldwide. Short link :
Asharq Al-Awsat
a day ago
- Health
- Asharq Al-Awsat
SDAIA: Saudi AI Platform Baseer Boosts Crowd, Security Control During Hajj
Saudi Arabia's Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) is leading a smart ecosystem to monitor and support the Hajj journey through advanced digital platforms designed to manage crowds and identify congestion points within the Grand Mosque, including the Tawaf area. The authority, working in coordination with other government entities, has deployed its technologies across 12 international airports in eight countries, creating a fully integrated digital system backed by real-time analytics and advanced algorithms. The initiative aims to support the Hajj operation and improve the quality of services offered to pilgrims. Speaking to Asharq Al-Awsat, SDAIA's Vice President, Engineer Sami bin Abdullah Moquim, said the authority has harnessed its advanced technical infrastructure and skilled workforce, including data scientists, AI specialists, engineers and technicians, to develop smart solutions that empower both government and private sector entities to make timely, informed decisions and boost operational efficiency. Smart platforms activated Moquim said SDAIA has completed its preparations for the Hajj season in line with directives from the Saudi leadership to ensure the comfort and ease of pilgrims. He noted that the authority has extended technical support to government agencies tasked with managing the pilgrimage. This support includes launching and activating several digital platforms during Hajj seasons to deliver high-quality services using the latest technologies, he said. SDAIA's engineers and technicians are working around the clock to maintain the digital infrastructure, ensure continuity of services for pilgrims, and address any technical challenges across the Kingdom's land, sea, and air border crossings in coordination with relevant authorities. He added that SDAIA's technical teams are operating dedicated workstations to facilitate the entry procedures of pilgrims and are providing continuous support in the terminals designated for their arrival to ensure smooth operation of systems and uninterrupted communication. Advanced tech at entry points SDAIA is extending its digital support to frontline security teams stationed at checkpoints and entry points leading to Makkah, while also equipping key holy sites with advanced technologies to streamline the Hajj experience, said Moquim. Additionally, the authority is supporting security entities at filtering checkpoints and security centers around Makkah and is operating sites in the holy locations of Arafat, Mina, Muzdalifah, and the Grand Mosque. The authority is also managing tech operations at the Al-Muaisem emergency complex and overseeing preventive maintenance to ensure systems remain fully functional throughout the pilgrimage season, Moquim told Asharq Al-Awsat. Global airport presence SDAIA has also deployed enhanced digital and AI-powered systems at 12 international airports across eight countries as part of its support for the 'Makkah Route' initiative. The initiative aims to ease travel procedures for pilgrims from the moment they depart their home countries through to their arrival in Saudi Arabia and eventual return with minimal disruption. Technical teams are remotely monitoring the systems and workstations deployed in these airports to ensure seamless operations. SDAIA is also providing real-time technical support to resolve malfunctions, maintain high performance levels, and ensure integrated service delivery. The initiative includes biometric registration workstations for pilgrims, mobile work units, and upgraded infrastructure to expedite entry procedures across all ports in line with the authority's operational plan. Upgraded permit platform Moquim said SDAIA has upgraded the unified digital platform for Hajj permits, 'Tasreeh', launched by the Ministry of Interior. The platform, integrated with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah's 'Nusuk' platform, enables domestic and international pilgrims, workers, volunteers, and transport vehicles to obtain and display entry permits for Makkah and the holy sites. He added that the national 'Tawakkalna' app now allows users to view all types of Hajj permits through direct integration with the Tasreeh platform. 'This feature simplifies access to permits from all government bodies involved in Hajj,' Moquim said. The app also offers emergency services such as 'Esafni' (Rescue Me), allowing pilgrims to request urgent medical or safety assistance with a few simple steps. With its wide range of integrated services, Tawakkalna plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and comfort of pilgrims throughout their journey. Smart operations for crowd management The Saudi AI Authority is rolling out a series of innovative tech solutions to streamline the Hajj experience, with its Smart Makkah Operations Center (SMART MOC) playing a central role in coordinating real-time systems and platforms supporting millions of pilgrims. Located in the holy city of Makkah, the SMART MOC is one of the core operational pillars underpinning the government's digital infrastructure for Hajj. The center monitors and manages the advanced systems deployed by SDAIA throughout the Hajj season and year-round, Moquim said. 'The SMART MOC is helping raise the quality of digital services offered to pilgrims,' he told Asharq Al-Awsat, noting that the center boosts crowd control and security coordination across the holy sites. AI-Powered crowd monitoring A key feature of the center is the Baseer platform, developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Interior. It uses advanced AI algorithms and real-time data processing to detect and analyze crowd density and distribution within the Grand Mosque and its surroundings. Baseer's computer vision tools allow authorities to pinpoint overcrowded zones, such as the Tawaf area, moment by moment. The platform provides highly accurate, real-time data that supports mobility planning and enables authorities to take swift action to prevent overcrowding or stampedes, ensuring the highest safety standards for pilgrims during the Hajj. Smart surveillance integration The operations center also incorporates cutting-edge platforms, such as Sawaher and Sawaher Qiyada, both developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Interior. These platforms deliver intelligent analytics of live security camera feeds across the holy sites and access points, enhancing situational awareness and operational efficiency. By analyzing vast amounts of live surveillance data, the system supports instant decision-making and bolsters field-level coordination. SDAIA says the platform's ability to integrate big data analytics with real-time video monitoring plays a crucial role in maintaining security and operational readiness across the Hajj landscape. Ehsan platform expands charitable services during Hajj Saudi Arabia's Ehsan platform is expanding its presence during this year's Hajj, offering a wide range of charitable services and initiatives aimed at maximizing social impact and supporting pilgrims through acts of giving. Moquim said Ehsan plays a key role in addressing the diverse needs of pilgrims by providing opportunities for donations and participation in community-focused projects. Among its key offerings this season is a sponsorship program for pilgrims who have never performed Hajj, allowing donors to contribute to fulfilling the dreams of those unable to afford the journey. The platform also facilitates initiatives to feed pilgrims and provide clean drinking water at the holy sites. In partnership with the Kingdom's Project for Utilization of Hady and Adahi (Adahi), Ehsan supports the sacrificial offering program by enabling pilgrims and donors to authorize the platform to perform their animal sacrifices on their behalf. The sacrifices are then distributed to eligible recipients in accordance with Islamic requirements, safely, securely, and on time.
Asharq Al-Awsat
a day ago
- General
- Asharq Al-Awsat
Saudi Interior Ministry Issues Guideline to Facilitate Hajj Rituals
The Saudi Ministry of Interior has issued a comprehensive guide containing instructions and guidelines aimed at ensuring the safety and security of pilgrims and facilitating the performance of this year's Hajj with ease, safety, and tranquility. The guide includes directions on how to reach the Grand Mosque in Makkah and explains the designated pedestrian pathways leading to the areas for circumambulation (Tawaf) and walking between Safa and Marwah (Sa'i). It highlights peak times at the Grand Mosque and its courtyards, offers vehicle usage guidelines during the Hajj, and outlines instructions for managing pedestrian movement and crowd control. These include adherence to scheduled group timings for Tawaf, Sa'i, and the stoning of the Jamarat across all stages of the Hajj. The guide also features various safety and security tips to ensure the smooth performance of rituals and provides information on Hajj regulations, particularly the 'No Hajj Without a Permit' rule and the fines for violations. The ministry urged all individuals to comply with Hajj regulations, which are designed to safeguard the well-being of pilgrims and ensure a smooth Hajj. It also encouraged the public to report violations by contacting the authorities through dedicated hotlines.
