Two million people benefit from the free ablution service at the Grand Mosque
The General Authority for the Care of the Two Holy Mosques announced a new record in services provided to pilgrims, with more than two million Umrah pilgrims benefiting from the free "release from ritual impurity" service within the Grand Mosque. This 24/7 service is a key component of the integrated services system designed to facilitate the pilgrimage for visitors during the Umrah season, reflecting the extensive efforts made to serve them.
Service location and quality standards
The authority explained that the service is offered in the eastern courtyard of the Grand Mosque and is available to both men and women, under the supervision of qualified and trained staff to ensure smooth flow and efficient service. This service is distinguished by its adherence to the highest standards of quality and safety, utilizing sterilized, single-use shaving and trimming tools, and strictly following all health procedures to ensure the safety of pilgrims and prevent the spread of infection, thus providing a safe environment for performing the rituals.
Religious context and health importance
The ritual of removing the hair from the state of ihram (shaving or trimming the hair) is the final rite of Umrah, allowing the pilgrim to resume what was forbidden during ihram. Historically, pilgrims faced challenges in finding clean and safe places to perform this ritual, as unregulated labor and unsterilized equipment, which could pose a health risk, were prevalent. The formal and free organization of this service eliminates these negative practices, providing a civilized and hygienic alternative that ensures the purity and cleanliness emphasized by Islam and protects pilgrims from bloodborne diseases.
Local impact and the objectives of Vision 2030
This initiative is of paramount importance within the framework of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, specifically under the "Serving the Guests of God" program, which aims to enrich the experience of Umrah and Hajj pilgrims and facilitate their spiritual journey. Providing such meticulous logistical services reflects the significant advancements in crowd management and field services at the Two Holy Mosques. Furthermore, offering these services free of charge alleviates the financial burden on pilgrims and enhances the Kingdom's positive image in caring for Islamic holy sites, thus reaffirming the wise leadership's commitment—may God support them—to dedicating all resources to the comfort of those performing Tawaf, I'tikaf, and those praying.
