A comprehensive mobilization to rehabilitate the Mina area
In a race against time, and within a matter of hours, the field teams of the Ministry of Municipalities and Housing, represented by the Holy Capital Municipality, commenced comprehensive preparation and environmental sanitation work in Mina. These intensive efforts began immediately after the pilgrims proceeded to Arafat to perform the most important rite of Hajj, as part of the operational plan for the 1447 AH Hajj season. These preparations aim to ensure Mina's complete readiness to receive pilgrims after their departure from Arafat and Muzdalifah, and to provide a healthy and safe environment that will enable them to complete their rituals with ease and peace of mind.
The historical and religious context of Mina
Mina holds immense historical and religious significance for Muslims, known as the "City of Tents," which hosts millions of pilgrims annually. Located within the boundaries of the Holy Mosque in Mecca, Mina is where pilgrims spend the Day of Tarwiyah (8th of Dhul-Hijjah) and return on the morning of Eid al-Adha (9th of Dhul-Hijjah) to perform the rituals of Tashreeq and the stoning of the Jamarat. Managing such massive crowds within a limited geographical area requires meticulous strategic planning, a practice Saudi Arabia has consistently pursued for decades. The Kingdom has continuously developed Mina's infrastructure, from modern, fire-resistant tents to state-of-the-art waste management and environmental sanitation systems, all to ensure the safety and well-being of the pilgrims.
A comprehensive operational plan and an advanced cleaning system
The ministry explained that field teams were able to fully restore Mina in record time. The work included intensifying waste removal operations and implementing the highest environmental sanitation standards. To ensure preparedness for any potential emergencies such as rain or fires, additional teams equipped with suction pumps, tankers, and field vehicles were deployed around the clock.
As part of this massive plan, the Holy Capital Municipality has deployed more than 13,000 workers to work in Mecca and the Holy Sites. These workers are supported by all the necessary equipment and machinery to maintain a high level of cleanliness and provide field services throughout the Hajj season.
Figures and statistics reflect the scale of the achievement
The waste management system in the Holy Sites operates according to a comprehensive and well-planned operational strategy. Waste is transported to transfer stations located around the Holy Sites, where it is stored after the Day of Arafah in a massive system comprising more than 1,230 compacting bins, each with a capacity of 8 tons. In addition, more than 110 underground storage facilities have been prepared with a total storage capacity of approximately 2,825 tons.
To improve waste collection efficiency and protect the environment, the Ministry confirmed the provision of approximately 88,000 waste collection units carefully distributed throughout the holy sites. These facilities directly contribute to providing the best possible services to pilgrims and prevent the accumulation of waste that could affect public health.
Local and international importance and impact
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's success in managing the Hajj season, particularly in preparing the holy sites such as Mina, is of paramount importance and has a profound impact at the local, regional, and international levels. Locally, this success reflects the efficiency of government agencies and their ability to coordinate effectively and manage crises and crowds with high efficiency. Regionally and internationally, providing these exceptional services reinforces the Kingdom's position as the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and sends a message of reassurance to millions of Muslims worldwide that the pilgrims are in safe hands. Furthermore, the application of strict health and environmental standards prevents the spread of epidemics, making the Hajj a global model to be emulated in managing large human gatherings.
