Special prayer areas for the elderly and people with disabilities at the Grand Mosque during Ramadan
The General Authority for the Care of the Two Holy Mosques announced the preparation and allocation of fully equipped prayer areas for people with disabilities and the elderly within the Grand Mosque, as part of its comprehensive preparations to receive pilgrims during the holy month of Ramadan. This step comes within an integrated system of services aimed at facilitating the performance of religious rites for all categories of pilgrims and visitors, and providing a spiritually enriching environment filled with comfort, tranquility, and peace.
Historical background of care and attention
This initiative reflects the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's ongoing historical efforts to serve the Two Holy Mosques and their visitors. Throughout the ages, the Saudi leadership has prioritized the development and expansion of the Grand Mosque, equipping it with state-of-the-art services to ensure the comfort of pilgrims and Umrah performers. These efforts are an integral part of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which aims to enrich the religious and cultural experience of pilgrims and provide exceptional services befitting the status of the Two Holy Mosques.
Details of available sites and services
The authority explained that these prayer areas were equipped according to high standards that prioritize accessibility and ease of movement. Their locations were carefully chosen to be close to main entrances and busy corridors, thus minimizing the effort required by elderly and disabled worshippers. The prayer areas were also provided with all necessary amenities, including Zamzam water and copies of the Quran, to create a comprehensive environment conducive to performing prayers and worship with ease and convenience.
The prayer areas designated for men include:
- Ground floor opposite King Abdul Aziz Gate No. 68.
- First floor opposite gate 91.
- The prayer area of the southern square near Ajyad Bridge.
- Two prayer areas in the eastern courtyard.
- The prayer areas of the third Saudi expansion are located at Gate 123.
As for the prayer areas designated for women, they were distributed in the following locations:
- Ground floor near door 88.
- Ground floor in the Al-Shabika area, near gate 68.
- The prayer area of the southern square near Ajyad Bridge.
This carefully considered geographical distribution ensures comprehensive coverage of the various parts of the Grand Mosque and its courtyards, and takes into account the density of worshippers and the movement of entry and exit during peak times in the month of Ramadan.
The importance and expected impact of the initiative
This step is of paramount importance both locally and internationally. Locally, it underscores the wise leadership's commitment to caring for all segments of society and enabling them to perform their religious rites under the best possible conditions. Internationally, it sends a humanitarian and civilizational message to the entire Muslim world, affirming that the Two Holy Mosques open their doors to everyone without exception, providing all necessary support. This initiative is expected to enhance the spiritual experience of these esteemed pilgrims, leaving them with a positive and unforgettable memory of their journey to the holiest places on earth.
