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Forbes
15-07-2025
- Forbes
Six Senses Rome Offers Excitement And Relaxation For The Jubilee Year
Six Senses Rome offers Christian pilgrims a serene retreat. John Athimaritis As Rome continues to celebrate its Jubilee year, attracting by some estimates more than 30 million Christian pilgrims, the Eternal City's holy sites are teeming with activities. Pilgrims visiting Rome will be able to pass through the Holy Doors of St. Peter's Basilica, San Giovanni in Laterano, Santa Maria Maggiore and San Paolo Fuori le Mura, which are all major basilicas in Rome. A wide range of events, including special masses and processions, will be held throughout the Jubilee year in Rome and other designated holy sites, according to the Vatican. Initially, Jubilees were celebrated every 100 years, then every 50 years, and now typically every 25 years. Six Senses provides a respite for rest, reflection and renewal John Athimaritis Rome pulses with vibrant energy, but for those seeking both the city's buzz and a sense of calm, Six Senses Rome offers the perfect balance — a serene, wellness-driven retreat at its heart. With so much happening around the world, many travelers are turning to vacations as a way to reset, looking not just for adventure, but for rest, reflection and renewal. Six Senses Rome not only allows travelers to immerse in the city's culture and history but also provides options for relaxation. Known for its commitment to wellness, sustainability and experiential luxury, the Six Senses brand creates immersive sanctuaries that connect guests to nature, community and self. In Rome, this philosophy is thoughtfully expressed in a serene green oasis in the heart of the Eternal City, blending ancient Roman heritage with contemporary design by Patricia Urquiola. Set within a restored 15th-century Palazzo on Via del Corso, Six Senses Rome features natural materials, calming neutral tones and lush greenery throughout. The ambiance is peaceful yet sophisticated, with elements like travertine, cocciopesto plaster and a modern multi-level spa including Roman baths. Rome is famous for its historical sites. getty Perfectly positioned within walking distance of landmarks like the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain and Roman Forum, the hotel immerses guests in the rich cultural tapestry of the city while offering a restorative escape. Wellness, sustainability and a strong sense of place define every detail, from the plant-filled rooftop to the biohacking spa rituals. It's a tranquil, luxurious retreat amid Rome's vibrant energy. Hotel guests can experience the Roman baths. John Athimaritis Ancient Inspired Wellness Experiences: In Roman times the bathhouse was a place to meet and connect with people, and at Six Senses Rome guests are invited to experience this tradition through a modern lens with the hotel's Roman Baths featuring a series of thermal pools for relaxing the mind and body. Guests can dine while savoring splendid views of the city. John Athimaritis Oasis for Outdoor Dining: Perched atop the property, the recently reopened NOTOS Rooftop is a serene rooftop escape where guests can savor breathtaking views of the city without the overwhelming crowds. Toast to the sunset with Roman-inspired botanical cocktails, expertly crafted mocktails, live music sessions and a curated selection of delicious bites. Sustainability Rooted in Culture and Community: Located in Rome's UNESCO World Heritage historic center, the hotel combines heritage preservation with a strong commitment to social and environmental responsibility. The LEED Gold–certified hotel operates on 100% renewable energy and supports local projects. By fostering community collaboration and sustainable practices, the property invites travelers to connect deeply with Rome while embracing responsible, meaningful travel. Wellness Tailored for the Mindful Traveler: At the hotel's spa, smart technology and expert care combine to personalize treatments, activities, and nutrition. With advanced diagnostics and visiting practitioners, guests deepen their connection to self and surroundings, gaining tools to maintain balance long after their stay. Six Senses Rome is the brand's first hotel to open in Italy. The 15th-century Palazzo Salviati Cesi Mellini, which Six Senses Rome calls its home, is an expertly restored building that recently received the LEED Gold certification for sustainable design and construction. The hotel includes sustainable design by architect Patricia Urquoila and various historical architectural layers are preserved throughout the building, including the 600-year-old columns and the 1,700-year-old baptism site that can be seen from the hotel's ground floor. The hotel features a customized lighting control system, and meters on each floor and at each outlet to carefully monitor energy usage. The opening of Six Senses Rome in 2023 also marked the completed renovation of the magnificent facade of the adjacent San Marcello al Corso Church, the first sustainability project sponsored by the hotel. Built over 80 years throughout the XVI century, San Marcello Al Corso Church includes the protected remains of Rome's oldest known baptism sanctuary, dating back to the IV century, and can be found under the shared basement. The hotel's Earth Lab is the epicenter of its sustainability efforts. Guests can partake in interactive workshops and engage with local community members invited for their knowledge of local craftsmanship and sustainability. The hotel hosts Sustainability Talks and Future Monday's series that invite the community to engage in meaningful conversations around environmental and social issues. It also partners with community-based environmental and social projects, and 0.5% of the hotel's revenue goes toward the dedicated Sustainability Fund. MORE FROM FORBES Forbes The Uber-Rich Are Flocking To This Small Mountain Town By Roger Sands Forbes How To Best Experience The Great American Road Trip By Roger Sands
Arab News
07-06-2025
- Business
- Arab News
Saudi Arabia's investments transform pilgrimage experience for millions
Saudi Arabia has made remarkable and unprecedented investments over the years in Makkah, Madinah, and other holy sites like Arafat and Muzdalifah to provide a safer, more efficient, and spiritually enriching experience for worshippers performing Umrah and Hajj. To enhance this experience, the Kingdom launched the Pilgrims Service Program in 2016 as part of the Vision 2030 reform plan. It aims to enable as many Muslims as possible to perform Hajj and Umrah in the best way, offering a profound and lasting spiritual experience through comprehensive arrangements at the holy sites. It also seeks to embody Islam's universal message, improve tourist and cultural destinations, and provide exceptional services before, during, and after visits to Makkah, Madinah, and other holy sites. Over the years, Saudi Arabia has invested generously in the Two Holy Mosques and surrounding sites to enhance the pilgrim experience, especially as the Kingdom aims to welcome 30 million Umrah pilgrims by 2030. The anticipated surge in Umrah pilgrims highlights the need to expand capacity, modernize infrastructure, and preserve the holy sites — efforts requiring billions in government investment. Advanced technologies are used during Hajj and Umrah to enhance safety, operational efficiency, and the overall pilgrim experience, aligning with Vision 2030's push to digitally transform religious services. I extend my best wishes to the Saudi government for its outstanding efforts and exceptional services to pilgrims, praying it continues to receive Allah's blessings One key innovation is the Nusuk smart card, which stores personal, medical, and residency information, facilitates access to services, and enables real-time pilgrim tracking. AI and big data analytics aid crowd management through intelligent surveillance and predictive modeling to optimize movement, reduce congestion, and prevent stampedes. Drones monitor crowds and provide live aerial footage, boosting safety and situational awareness. Additionally, the Nusuk platform allows pilgrims to book Umrah permits, accommodation, and transportation. The Saudi government has also launched numerous expansion projects at the Two Holy Mosques, other holy sites, and airports. For example, the Grand Mosque expansion in Makkah cost more than SR200 billion ($53.3 billion), while airports in Jeddah and Madinah exceeded SR100 billion. Road projects in Makkah, Jeddah, and Madinah totaled SR68 billion, and the Jamarat facility cost about SR4 billion. The Haramain High-Speed Railway connects Makkah and Madinah in 120 minutes. Spanning 450 km through Jeddah and King Abdullah Economic City, it handles up to 60 million passengers annually and runs at speeds up to 300 km/h. With an investment of SR63 billion, it is the fastest train service in the Middle East and North Africa. These investments reflect the Saudi government's strong commitment to Muslims worldwide and its leading role in the Islamic world. It also strives to ensure pilgrims have a seamless, spiritually fulfilling experience — through initiatives starting before arrival and continuing until they return home safely. The Saudi government's investments and facilities have greatly encouraged Muslims worldwide to perform Umrah and Hajj, resulting in a steady year-on-year increase in pilgrims. According to the 2024 Saudi Vision Performance Report, the Kingdom reached a record 16.92 million Umrah pilgrims, surpassing the annual target of 11.3 million. The General Authority for Statistics states that Saudi Arabia has hosted more than 95 million Hajj pilgrims in the past 50 years. In closing, I extend my best wishes to the Saudi government for its outstanding efforts and exceptional services to pilgrims, praying it continues to receive Allah's blessings. • Talat Zaki Hafiz is an economist and financial analyst. X: @TalatHafiz
Qatar Tribune
07-06-2025
- Health
- Qatar Tribune
Qatari Hajj Mission accompanies country's pilgrims in Muzdalifah and provides comprehensive health, religious care
MAKKAH: In a spiritual and religious atmosphere characterized by precise organization and integrated services, the supporting units of the Qatari Hajj Mission accompanied the pilgrims of the State of Qatar during their departure from Mount Arafat to Muzdalifah on the evening of Thursday, corresponding to the ninth of Dhul-Hijjah 1446 AH, via the Mashair Train. This was in accordance with the approved grouping plan, which was implemented smoothly in record time, providing the pilgrims of the State with safe and comfortable transportation to Muzdalifah, and then performing the remaining Hajj rituals with ease and peace of mind. This step comes as part of the ongoing efforts of the Qatari Hajj Mission, under the guidance of the State of Qatar's wise leadership, to provide a safe and exemplary Hajj experience that accompanies Qatari pilgrims at every location and point throughout the Hajj rituals. Extensive field participation by mission units Muzdalifah witnessed an active field presence from the mission's service and technical units, including: the medical unit, the Sharia unit, the Holy Sites Services unit, the monitoring and inspection unit, and the communication and support unit. These teams worked in complete harmony according to a unified plan, focusing on ensuring the comfort of pilgrims and providing direct logistical, health, and religious support during their stay in the holy site, in preparation for the stoning of the Jamarat al-Aqaba in Mina and the performance of the Tawaf al-Ifadah, which is one of the pillars of Hajj. Immediate medical care and field response The Qatari Hajj Mission's medical unit played a prominent role in providing medical support to the country's pilgrims in Muzdalifah. The unit deployed dismounted field medical teams to be present among the pilgrims, along with female medical and nursing staff to attend to the needs of the pilgrims and ensure their safety. A small field medical unit has also been established in Muzdalifah, equipped with all necessary equipment, medications, and supplies to receive emergency and critical cases. A mobile clinic is also equipped with the necessary medications, advanced medical equipment such as respirators, and a number of medical personnel in various specialties. In this context, Dr Mohammed Abu Khattab, Senior Consultant of Internal and Infectious Diseases and Member of the Medical Services Unit, explained that the mission was keen to send medical teams to accompany the pilgrims in Muzdalifah, with the presence of a paramedic equipped with the innovative rescue jacket (HT RESCUE JACKET), which is a miniature model of a portable ambulance, containing all the necessary equipment for rapid intervention in emergency cases, and which has won the admiration and approval of the responsible authorities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Last year, the medical unit was honoured for its initiative to include the rescue jacket in its work as an exclusive idea for the Qatari Hajj mission. Sharia Unit: Spiritual support and guidance on the correct rituals On the religious level, the Sharia Unit of the Qatari Hajj Mission played a vital role in accompanying pilgrims by providing fatwas and religious guidance, and by fostering reassurance within their hearts. Sheikh Dr Muhammad Mahmoud Al-Mahmoud, Head of the Sharia Unit, explained that the presence of Sharia Unit members with pilgrims in Muzdalifah aims to provide moral support and ensure that the rituals are performed in the correct Sharia manner. He added: 'We accompany the pilgrims from sunset on the Day of Arafah, guiding them to revive the sacred feelings in Muzdalifah with remembrance and supplication, and to prepare for the Day of Sacrifice in a manner befitting these great days.' For his part, Sheikh Fahd Al Mohammad, a member of the unit, emphasized the importance of embracing the spirituality of the ritual, saying: 'Rituals are not just movements, but rather a visit to God Almighty, and a remembrance of the greatness of the Prophet Abraham, peace be upon him, as he threw the pebbles at the Jamarat. Hajj is a scene of faith in which spiritual meanings are manifested in their most sublime forms.' Communication and Support Unit: Immediate response and comprehensive field coordination Continuing its daily efforts, the Communications and Support Unit continued its work around the clock, receiving reports and inquiries from pilgrims and coordinating directly with various units to ensure an immediate response to any emergency. The unit's field support teams were deployed around the camps and holy sites to monitor medical or logistical emergencies and respond quickly to them by accurately identifying their locations and directing pilgrims to appropriate assistance. The unit also provided a free calling service via the number (132) from within the State of Qatar, and (8003040444) from within the Kingdom for holders of a Qatari or Saudi line, in addition to guidance services and emergency reports via the 'Hajj Guide' application, which represents a modern digital platform that facilitates movement, interaction and instant guidance for the Qatari pilgrim. High-end field services from the Holy Sites Services Unit In the same context, the Holy Sites Services Unit has completed the preparation and equipment of the Qatari pilgrims' camps in Muzdalifah. The camp has been furnished with carpets and multi-purpose chairs that convert into beds depending on the pilgrim's needs. Fans equipped with mist are also available to provide a pleasant atmosphere. Complete meals and cold drinks are also available to all pilgrims. The unit emphasized that all these services aim to provide a calm and safe environment for the country's pilgrims during their stay in Muzdalifah, in preparation for completing their rituals, starting with the stoning of the Great Jamarat, the Tawaf al-Ifadah, and then returning to Mina to spend the Days of Tashreeq. For their part, a number of Qatari pilgrims from various Hajj campaigns expressed their great satisfaction with the services provided by the Qatari Hajj Mission in Muzdalifah, noting the availability of religious guidance, healthcare, food, restrooms, and ongoing administrative supervision. They praised the mission's efforts from the moment they arrived at Jeddah Airport until their transfer between the holy sites. They also noted the quality of the camps, especially in Arafat, which has witnessed comprehensive development this year. They also emphasized that the level of field organization in Muzdalifah was top-notch. Pilgrims also commended the Qatari Hajj Mission's fruitful cooperation with the relevant authorities in the sisterly Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which, through the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and all relevant agencies, provided all necessary security and service facilities, enabling pilgrims to perform the rituals smoothly and safely. The Qatari Hajj Mission affirms that the success achieved in transporting pilgrims from their residences in Makkah Al-Mukarramah to Mina and Arafat, then to Muzdalifah, and following up on their journey on the ground, is part of a comprehensive plan developed by the Qatari Hajj Mission, with close follow-up from the Minister of Endowments and Islamic Affairs and Head of the Qatari Mission. The efforts of all supporting units are integrated to provide the best possible Hajj experience for Qatari pilgrims. The Qatari mission will continue to perform its duties until the end of the Hajj rituals, passing through the days of Tashreeq in Mina, and until the pilgrims perform the farewell Tawaf and return to their homeland safely, after having performed the fifth pillar of Islam in an easy and faithful atmosphere.
Saudi Press
04-06-2025
- General
- Saudi Press
Pilgrims Arrive in Mina for Day of Tarwiyah
Accommodations for Guests of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' Hajj Program Ready at Holy Sites
Arab News
03-06-2025
- Health
- Arab News
Smart Hajj: How authorities are preparing for crowd control
MAKKAH: Each year, the eyes of the world turn to Makkah, where millions of pilgrims from a range of nationalities, ethnicities and cultures gather in a remarkable spiritual gathering that symbolizes the unity of Islam. In this vast diversity and sheer scale, the foremost challenge lies in managing the movement of crowds in a brief timeframe and a geographically constrained area encompassing the Grand Mosque and the Holy Sites. Alhough Hajj is, at its core, an act of worship, safeguarding pilgrims and managing their movements requires meticulous planning, technical precision, and close coordination between security, health, service and technology organizations. The movement of crowds in Makkah and the Holy Sites is managed by a centralized, data-driven strategy that relies on real-time inputs from surveillance cameras, aerial monitoring and location-tracking applications. (SPA) Preparations for this year's season underscored Saudi Arabia's ability to integrate advanced technologies, institutional expertise, and forward-thinking initiatives to successfully orchestrate one of the most complex logistical operations in the world. The movement of crowds in Makkah and the Holy Sites is managed by a centralized, data-driven strategy that relies on real-time inputs from surveillance cameras, aerial monitoring and location-tracking applications. This integrated approach allows authorities to respond effectively to emergencies, proactively reroute pedestrian flow, anticipate congestion points and guide pilgrims with precision, ensuring the seamless and dignified continuation of rituals at every stage. Coordinating the movement of over 2 million pilgrims in such a densely concentrated setting is a remarkable global accomplishment by any standard. Akram Jan, Crowd management expert Crowd management expert Akram Jan spoke to Arab News about the efforts that went into organizing the Hajj season. 'Coordinating the movement of over two million pilgrims in such a densely concentrated setting is a remarkable global accomplishment by any standard,' he said. Saudi Arabia, he said, has become a global leader in crowd management, offering valuable insights for other countries. Crowd control for the pilgrimage includes carefully calibrated timetables, which significantly reduce congestion and enhance overall safety. He said that such crowd control is achievable only through high-level inter-agency coordination, intensive field team training, and the ability to respond swiftly to changing conditions on the ground. Hotelier Mohammed Hakim spoke to Arab News about how the Kingdom's Hajj and Umrah preparations have progressed over the years. These changes have redefined the sector, shifting it from a seasonal service model to a comprehensive, year-round industry. He said: 'It is now evident that the experience of pilgrims extends far beyond the performance of rituals; it has evolved into a comprehensive, well-orchestrated journey that meets the highest standards of service and excellence.' 'We are now in the era of 'Smart Hajj,' where crowds are managed through applications, meals are distributed via digital platforms, and the quality of camps and accommodations is continuously monitored through real-time sensors and data analysis,' he added. 'Pilgrim satisfaction is measured from the moment they arrive in the Kingdom until their departure, all with an unprecedented level of digital transparency. 'We are entering a new era for Hajj and Umrah — one that transcends boundaries and is no longer confined to specific seasons. It is driven by a vision of continuous growth, institutional integration, and human empowerment, moving toward a values-driven economy rooted in a deep commitment to renewal and progress.'
