Saudi Arabia Advises Worshippers to Wear Facemasks at Sacred Mosques

During the holy month of Ramadan, as Umrah, the minor pilgrimage, peaks in Saudi Arabia, authorities have urged worshippers visiting Islam’s revered sites in Mecca and Medina to wear facemasks for their protection against infectious diseases. The Public Security Directorate emphasized the importance of this precautionary measure for the well-being of both pilgrims and others present in the Grand Mosque in Mecca and the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina. These mosques, central to Islamic worship, attract Muslim worshippers from within and outside Saudi Arabia during Ramadan, prompting authorities to introduce measures to ensure smooth and comfortable pilgrimage experiences.

To manage the anticipated influx of worshippers, Saudi authorities have implemented various strategies. The courtyards of the Grand Mosque, housing the Holy Kaaba, are specifically designated for Umrah pilgrims during Ramadan, streamlining the pilgrimage process. Additionally, specific entry and exit gates have been allocated to prevent overcrowding, while buses transporting worshippers are directed to designated parking areas to ease traffic congestion around the mosques.

Following Umrah, many pilgrims journey to Medina to offer prayers at the Prophet’s Mosque and visit other significant Islamic landmarks in the city. Authorities overseeing the Prophet’s Mosque have assured their readiness to accommodate large numbers of worshippers during Ramadan. Over 8.5 million Iftar meals are estimated to be distributed to worshippers daily, marking the end of their dawn-to-dusk fasting. Moreover, approximately 2.5 million bottles of the blessed Zamzam water will be provided to worshippers at the mosque throughout the lunar month, known for its heightened spiritual significance and intense worship activities.

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