Developing a free Hajj exit service to serve 120,000 pilgrims in Mecca
The General Authority for the Care of the Two Holy Mosques continues its tireless efforts to enhance services provided to pilgrims. It has announced a comprehensive operational plan aimed at developing the free "Tahallul" service (shaving and trimming) within the Grand Mosque. This service is offered around the clock to both men and women, directly contributing to facilitating the performance of rituals and improving the quality of field services during the Hajj season. The enhanced plan aims to increase the number of beneficiaries to 120,000 pilgrims by increasing operational capacity and expanding accessibility, reflecting the qualitative and quantitative expansion of digital and field services provided within the Grand Mosque.
Historical roots of the free decomposition service
Shaving or trimming the hair is one of the essential rituals with which pilgrims conclude their Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages. In past decades, pilgrims faced challenges related to overcrowding and the difficulty of finding designated shaving areas around the Grand Mosque, which posed organizational and health challenges. With the ongoing development led by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, this ritual has undergone radical transformations, moving from a haphazard process to a meticulously organized system. The wise leadership has ensured the provision of well-equipped and hygienic facilities that guarantee the safety of pilgrims and prevent the spread of diseases, ultimately offering these services free of charge and in an organized manner that reflects the Kingdom's civilized image.
Dedicated routes and strategic locations near Al Marwa
The initiative included expanding service locations according to a well-planned geographical and engineering distribution that ensures easy access and reduces congestion in the courtyards. New, fully equipped sites were established near the Marwa area (the end of the Sa'i), enhancing the flow of pedestrian traffic and accommodating the high volume of pilgrims. To ensure comprehensive care, separate and dedicated pathways were provided for the elderly and people with disabilities, facilitating their access to services with ease and comfort. The development work also included distributing symbolic gifts to leave a positive impression on pilgrims, and activating customer service centers to provide support, religious and logistical guidance, and answer pilgrims' inquiries around the clock.
Dimensions and effects of organizing field services for pilgrims
The development of these services carries significant implications at the local, regional, and international levels. Locally, this organization contributes to highly efficient crowd management and the preservation of public health and the environment within the Grand Mosque in Mecca. Regionally and internationally, providing free, high-quality services to millions of Muslims from around the world enhances the Kingdom's positive image and reaffirms its leading and historical role in serving Islam and Muslims, leaving a profound spiritual and psychological impact on pilgrims returning home.
Record numbers and an integrated system
Since its inception, the humanitarian service has set records, exceeding 2.9 million beneficiaries. The average waiting time is only about 4 minutes, while the average time for efficient service delivery is 2 minutes, reflecting the efficiency of the digital operations and the exceptional speed of completion. On the ground, the Authority is working to enhance the readiness of its staff during peak times, while also reassessing and redesigning the parking areas and pathways for the decomposition vehicles to improve aesthetics and perfectly align with the visual identity of the Grand Mosque in Mecca. These commendable efforts are an extension of the integrated services provided by the government of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, aimed at elevating the Hajj and Umrah experience, in line with the objectives of the Kingdom's Vision 2030.
