The Holy Sites Journey program concludes with the participation of 34 countries
The Saudi Ministry of Sports concluded its “Journey to the Holy Sites” program on Wednesday evening with a closing ceremony held in Jeddah, attended by the Assistant Deputy Minister for Youth Affairs, Ahmed bin Salem Al-Ghamlas. The program witnessed broad participation and significant engagement from 110 young people representing more than 34 Arab and Islamic countries, reflecting the international dimension of this important event.
A comprehensive field tour in Mecca and Medina
The program, implemented in strategic partnership with the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and the League of Arab States, featured a packed and intensive agenda that included field visits to the holiest sites. Participants had the opportunity to witness firsthand the sacred rituals of Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah, and to observe firsthand the massive infrastructure and meticulous organizational arrangements employed by the Kingdom to manage crowds and serve millions of pilgrims annually. The program also included performing Umrah, visiting Medina to explore historical landmarks related to the Prophet's life, and visiting cultural museums that document the history of Islamic civilization.
Context of the event and the Kingdom's efforts to serve the pilgrims
This program comes at a time when the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is undergoing major transformations as part of its Vision 2030, which places great emphasis on the "Serving the Guests of God" program. This visit offers a valuable opportunity for Arab and Muslim youth to witness firsthand the qualitative leap in logistical and technological services provided at the Two Holy Mosques and the Holy Sites. From the historic expansion projects to the Al-Mashaaer Metro and digital platforms designed to facilitate the rituals, the trip aimed to provide a realistic and direct picture of the scale of the government's efforts to ensure the safety and comfort of pilgrims and Umrah performers—efforts that transcend mere organization to reflect a firm commitment to serving Islam and Muslims.
The importance of the program and its cultural dimensions
The importance of the “Holy Sites Journey” extends beyond mere awareness; it encompasses significant cultural and diplomatic dimensions. This youth gathering serves as a vital platform for fostering dialogue and communication among young people from the Islamic world, facilitating the exchange of experiences and cultures under one umbrella. The program also contributes to preparing young ambassadors capable of conveying a true and honorable image of the Kingdom and the tolerance of Islam to their communities. This initiative holds regional and international significance as it strengthens the bonds of Islamic brotherhood and invests in the potential of young people to build a future based on mutual understanding and cooperation.
The tour concludes in Jeddah
The trip concluded in Jeddah, where participants explored the historical aspects of the "Bride of the Red Sea," including the historic district of Jeddah (Al-Balad), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as visiting several prominent sports and entrepreneurial landmarks. Through this program, the Ministry of Sport reaffirms its ongoing commitment to empowering youth, building their capabilities, and instilling shared values, thereby supporting comprehensive development across the Arab and Islamic world.
