Civil Defense intensifies safety patrols of Umrah pilgrims' accommodations during Ramadan

The General Directorate of Civil Defense in the Holy City continued its intensive field efforts, through the implementation of a series of preventive inspection work and the deployment of safety patrols to the residences of pilgrims and tourist accommodation facilities, in addition to intensifying the presence in the central area surrounding the Two Holy Mosques, coinciding with the season of the holy month of Ramadan.

These field operations come as part of the Directorate’s general operational plan, which aims to ensure that all safety requirements and fire protection systems are available in buildings designated for housing pilgrims, to guarantee a safe and risk-free environment during the holy month.

Preparations for Ramadan season and high visitor traffic

This measure is of paramount importance given the significant increase in the number of pilgrims and visitors to Mecca during the holy month of Ramadan. The relevant authorities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia are working according to a comprehensive strategy for crowd management and ensuring the safety of lives and property, with accommodation safety being a fundamental pillar of the services provided to pilgrims. Historically, the Kingdom has consistently dedicated all its human and technological resources to serving the Two Holy Mosques and developing the infrastructure and safety systems in hotels and residential towers surrounding the Grand Mosque.

Monitoring and rapid intervention mechanisms

The General Directorate of Civil Defense confirmed the continued operation of its field support centers and teams, along with the activation of rapid intervention units deployed at strategic locations throughout the Holy City of Mecca. Inspection tours include checking the efficiency of early warning systems, the readiness of emergency exits, the functionality of fire extinguishers, and ensuring that corridors are clear of any obstacles that could impede evacuation in case of emergencies.

The plan also includes preventive oversight points that operate around the clock to monitor and immediately address any violations that may threaten public safety, reflecting the high readiness of the civil defense teams to deal with various possible scenarios.

Awareness and community partnership

In a related context, the Civil Defense emphasized the importance of raising awareness and adhering to instructions, highlighting the need to follow guidelines disseminated through various media outlets and official social media platforms. These awareness messages aim to promote a culture of safety among pilgrims, visitors, and those managing accommodation facilities, stressing that safety is a shared responsibility requiring everyone's cooperation to protect lives and property, and to ensure that pilgrims can perform their rituals with peace of mind and ease.