In a scene of faith that embodies the highest meanings of giving and sacrifice, and coinciding with the spiritual atmosphere that the Grand Mosque is experiencing, the Saudi scout youth and leaders participating in the Umrah service camp set a new record, as the sum of their efforts amounted to more than 45,000 hours of volunteer work during the first half of the holy month of Ramadan.
Historical context and an ambitious national vision
This achievement is not a coincidence, but rather an extension of the long and distinguished history of the Saudi Arabian Scouts Association in serving pilgrims during Hajj and Umrah seasons. These efforts are perfectly aligned with the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which aims to reach one million volunteers annually in the non-profit sector and to promote a culture of volunteerism as a deeply rooted national and cultural value among Saudi youth.
Details of field efforts in numbers
The organizers of the camp, which is overseen by the Scout Association, explained that the participating force numbered approximately 600 scouts and leaders representing various scouting sectors from all regions and governorates of the Kingdom. The volunteer hours were meticulously planned to ensure that all the needs of the pilgrims were met, and the details are as follows:
- Guidance and Direction: This track received the largest share, as 300 scouts participated in supporting the General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque, achieving 22,500 volunteer hours to guide the lost and direct the worshippers.
- Supporting public security: 180 scouts contributed to organizing crowds and supporting security agencies with a total of 13,500 hours, which contributed to the smooth flow of movement within the corridors and squares.
- Organizing the prayer areas: 60 scouts worked to arrange the rows of worshippers and ensure that there was no overcrowding in the corridors, recording 4,500 hours.
- The Little Pilgrim Initiative: In a humanitarian gesture, 30 scouts dedicated their efforts to caring for lost children of pilgrims or accompanying them while their parents performed the rituals, totaling 2,250 hours.
- Supporting services: These included distributing water (watering) and perfuming and scenting the corridors and courtyards, with the participation of 30 scouts and a total of nearly 1,800 hours.
The social and religious impact of the event
These efforts are of paramount importance given the immense crowds that fill the Grand Mosque in Mecca during Ramadan. The presence of scouts as a support force alleviates the burden on official authorities and provides a more tranquil and peaceful environment for pilgrims, allowing them to perform their religious rites with ease. This presence also reflects a positive image of Saudi youth to visitors from all corners of the globe.
Continuing the giving until the end of the holy month
For his part, camp leader Ziad Qadir confirmed that these figures represent only the first half, noting that the public service camps will continue to provide their services with the same pace and enthusiasm until the end of the holy month. He added that these camps are not merely service-oriented, but rather educational institutions that instill in young men and women a spirit of responsibility, national belonging, and altruism, thus embodying the Scouts' enduring motto, "Be Prepared," to serve their faith and country.
