Preparations at the Two Holy Mosques for Ramadan: An operational plan and integrated services
As the holy month approaches, Muslims around the world turn their attention to Mecca and Medina, where the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has announced a state of maximum readiness at the Two Holy Mosques. This step comes as part of the Two Holy Mosques' preparations for Ramadan , to ensure a safe and accessible spiritual experience for the millions of pilgrims and worshippers who flock to perform the rituals during this exceptional season.
General context: An exceptional season and an ambitious vision
This year's Ramadan season holds special significance, aligning with the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which aims to increase the capacity to receive pilgrims and facilitate their spiritual journey. Caring for the Two Holy Mosques is a cornerstone of the Saudi leadership's priorities, with concerted efforts annually to dedicate all available human and technological resources to serving those visiting the Holy Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque (peace and blessings be upon him). These preparations extend beyond operational aspects to include creating a spiritually enriching atmosphere that allows visitors to devote themselves to worship and remembrance in peace and tranquility.
Operational readiness at record levels
In detailing the operational plan, the General Authority for the Care of the Two Holy Mosques explained that this year's preparations reflect the scale of the work undertaken. More than 47,000 containers of blessed Zamzam water were carefully distributed throughout the corridors and courtyards of the Two Holy Mosques to ensure easy access to the blessed water for everyone. Preparations also included laying out 60,000 luxurious prayer rugs and maintaining and operating a massive lighting system comprising 258,560 light units , guaranteeing optimal illumination that enhances the worshippers' focus and devotion within the prayer halls, corridors, and outer courtyards.
Advanced infrastructure and smart services
The plan also addressed engineering and support services, providing 11,956 restrooms to accommodate the large number of visitors, in addition to installing 14,558 state-of-the-art sound systems to ensure clear audio and that recitations and sermons reach every corner of the Two Holy Mosques with perfect clarity. This massive system is managed by a qualified workforce of over 19,230 administrative, technical, and field staff , who work around the clock to serve the pilgrims.
Facilitating mobility and serving people with disabilities
To ensure smooth movement and facilitate the rituals, especially for the elderly and people with disabilities, the Authority has prepared 451 prayer areas within the Two Holy Mosques and enhanced the transportation system with 980 escalators and 114 elevators . Regarding services for circumambulation (Tawaf) and the ritual walking between Safa and Marwa (Sa'i), a large fleet of 10,000 manual wheelchairs and 403 electric wheelchairs , in addition to 12 wheelchairs specifically designed for Tawaf, reflecting meticulous attention to every detail of visitor comfort.
A safe environment and quality services for the family
To further enhance the comprehensive service concept, three childcare centers, five baggage drop-off points at the entrances, and four luggage storage facilities have been established, along with the operation of 370 air conditioning units to ensure comfortable conditions. This integrated system and the ongoing coordination among all relevant authorities underscore the Kingdom's commitment to providing the highest quality services to pilgrims, enabling them to perform their rituals in an atmosphere of organization, comfort, and tranquility.
