Latest news with #UmmAlQuraUniversity
Arab News
4 days ago
- Health
- Arab News
Umm Al-Qura University: Training students to work with millions of Hajj pilgrims
MAKKAH: As part of Saudi Arabia's efforts to improve the experience of Hajj, a specialized institute at Makkah's Umm Al-Qura University is training thousands of professionals to work with the millions of pilgrims expected to travel to the two holy cities. The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Institute for Hajj and Umrah Research plays a significant role in national development efforts under Vision 2030. Director Khalid Al-Ghamdi spoke to Arab News about how the institute is working to improve the experience of the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages. 'The institute remains a key driver in enhancing the pilgrimage experience through applied research and strategic capacity building,' Al-Ghamdi told Arab News. 'As an advanced scientific arm, it plays a vital role in improving the efficiency and safety of services at the Grand Mosque and the holy sites.' The institute also trains thousands of field personnel annually to serve pilgrims and Umrah performers, in roles including security and healthcare staff, drivers and volunteers. Training is delivered through immersive rehearsals that closely mirror real-world conditions in the field. The institute is a globally unique research center dedicated to serving a gathering of unparalleled scale and significance. One of the institute's most important contributions is its seasonal field studies, Al-Ghamdi said. Carried out annually during the Hajj and Umrah seasons, these studies document and analyze real-time challenges in key areas such as crowd movement, transport flow, environmental hazards, emergency response and overall efficiency. He added that the outcomes of these studies serve as a vital technical reference for authorities, offering data-driven recommendations that support more effective planning for future seasons — a crucial function as crowds throng at holy sites in high temperatures. The institute also trains thousands of field personnel annually to serve pilgrims and Umrah performers, in roles including security and healthcare staff, drivers and volunteers. Training is delivered through immersive rehearsals that closely mirror real-world conditions in the field. The institute also operates in close coordination with various government entities, including the Ministry of Interior, Civil Defense and the Transport Authority, to align its training with official guidelines. Al-Ghamdi also discussed the institute's advisory role in shaping regulatory and operational frameworks for Hajj and Umrah services. The advisory role includes evaluation studies and environmental impact assessments, which inform strategic decisions on infrastructure development and service quality enhancement. The institute is a globally unique research center dedicated to serving a gathering of unparalleled scale and significance. Its research priorities are uniquely tailored, setting it apart from its international counterparts through a specialized focus on the Hajj, the holy sites, the two holy cities and related areas including urban planning, environmental sustainability and humanitarian services. Additionally, Umm Al-Qura University offers academic programs in medicine and administration, specifically designed to prepare students for managing the unique operational demands of the Hajj and Umrah seasons.
Leaders
04-03-2025
- Climate
- Leaders
Saudi Arabia Braces for Heavy Rain: Key Regions on High Alert Until Friday
The General Directorate of Civil Defense issued a weather alert, predicting moderate to heavy rainfall across Saudi Arabia until Friday. Regions impacted include Makkah, Riyadh, Madinah, Tabuk, Hail, Qassim, the Eastern Province, Northern Borders, Al Jouf, Al Baha, and Asir. Authorities urged residents to avoid valley areas, refrain from swimming in floodwaters, and heed safety updates via official channels. They emphasized vigilance in flood-prone zones and near unstable terrain. Makkah Suspends In-Person Classes Meanwhile, the Makkah Education Department halted in-person schooling for students in Makkah, Al Jumum, Al Kamil, and Bahra. Classes will shift to remote learning through the Madrasati platform until further notice. Umm Al Qura University also transitioned to online classes Tuesday, aligning with National Center of Meteorology warnings. The shift applies to all campuses, colleges, and offices in the Makkah region. The Civil Defense reiterated the need for caution, advising drivers to avoid waterlogged roads. Residents should monitor weather advisories and report emergencies through unified hotlines. Saudi authorities continue coordinating response efforts, prioritizing citizen safety during extreme weather. Follow official updates for real-time guidance and storm-related developments. Short link : Post Views: 77
