5 exceptional services for pilgrims at the centers caring for the guests of God
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is making continuous and dedicated efforts to serve those visiting the Grand Mosque in Mecca and the Prophet's Mosque in Medina. In this context, the General Authority for the Care of the Two Holy Mosques has intensified its efforts to enhance the services provided to pilgrims. This is evident through the operation of a comprehensive field system comprising two main centers and 19 branch centers dedicated to serving pilgrims within the Two Holy Mosques and their courtyards. These centers aim to facilitate the journey of Hajj and Umrah pilgrims and enrich their spiritual experience in an atmosphere of security, safety, and tranquility, in line with the Hajj season of 1447 AH.
The historical context of serving the guests of God
Historically, since its founding, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has prioritized the care of the Two Holy Mosques and the service of pilgrims performing Hajj and Umrah. The past decades have witnessed unprecedented expansions and tremendous development in infrastructure and logistics, reflecting the wise leadership's commitment to providing the utmost comfort for Muslims from around the world to perform their rituals with ease and convenience. This is a continuation of a long-standing approach to the care of Islamic holy sites.
What services do the guest care centers in the Two Holy Mosques offer?
These centers operate around the clock within an integrated system to serve visitors, and offer 5 main services including:
- Providing spatial and orientation guidance to pilgrims.
- Luggage storage services to ensure the comfort of travelers.
- Receiving and delivering lost items in safe and reliable ways.
- Providing special care for the elderly and people with disabilities to facilitate their mobility.
- Exceptional care for children, women, and lost people.
Special care for the most vulnerable groups
The authority emphasized the importance of providing special care for children, women, and lost individuals, particularly during peak times and periods of extreme crowding. These groups are received and cared for in well-equipped and comfortable facilities, under organized and secure security procedures, until their families are contacted and they are officially handed over. This measure enhances the sense of security and psychological well-being of pilgrims within the holiest of places.
Technology in service of the pilgrims
To enhance traffic flow and reduce congestion in main corridors and prayer areas, the project introduced an advanced luggage storage service for pilgrims. In addition, modern digital communication channels were activated to facilitate quick and efficient access to services. The authority also provided a QR code for locating guest service centers, enabling pilgrims to pinpoint the nearest center using their smartphones and reach it within seconds.
Regional and international importance and influence
The impact of these services extends beyond the local level of crowd management and efficient facility administration; it reaches regionally and internationally. Presenting a positive image of Saudi organization reinforces the Kingdom's position as a leader in the Islamic world in managing millions of pilgrims. These efforts also underscore the readiness of the General Presidency for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques and its staff to operate at full capacity during the Hajj season. All of this contributes to supporting the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to enrich the experience of pilgrims and enhance the quality of services provided to them through advanced and institutionalized service models that ensure the safety and comfort of all.
