The Two Holy Mosques Affairs Department is accepting applications for Ramadan Iftar meals 1447: Conditions and dates

The General Authority for the Care of the Two Holy Mosques announced the commencement of the application process for national companies and factories specializing in catering who wish to provide Iftar (breaking the fast) services for worshippers at the Two Holy Mosques during the holy month of Ramadan 1447 AH. This proactive step is part of the Authority's strategy to regulate the food service system and enhance the quality of services provided to pilgrims, ensuring the highest standards of food safety and operational efficiency.

Application details and deadlines

The authority clarified in its statement that this announcement specifically targets commercial entities (companies and factories) seeking to provide breakfast services within the courtyards and arcades of the Two Holy Mosques. It noted that the permits do not cover individual or traditional charitable breakfast distributions, but rather focus on institutional supply and service contracts. The application period is set to begin on the 7th of Rajab 1447 AH and will continue for three days until the 10th of the same month. Interested parties must register and upload their documents via the QR code designated for this initiative.

Technical requirements and standards

To ensure the competence of applicants, the authority has established a set of strict requirements that must be met by applicant establishments, including:

• Having a valid commercial registration that explicitly includes catering or food services.
• Obtaining valid operating licenses from the relevant authorities (the Holy Capital Municipality or the Food and Drug Authority) for the preparation and operation headquarters in Makkah or Madinah.
• Proof of an actual operational headquarters within one of the two holy cities (ownership or a notarized lease agreement).
• The facility's regulatory record is free of any violations related to public health.
• The operational capacity to produce and supply at least 10,000 meals per day, to ensure smooth service during peak times.
• Full compliance with the visual identity and meal components approved by the Authority.

The importance of organizing the Iftar system in the Two Holy Mosques

These measures are of paramount importance given the unique spatial and temporal significance of the Two Holy Mosques. The iftar meals provided at the Grand Mosque in Mecca and the Prophet's Mosque in Medina are among the longest continuous meals in the world, serving millions of Muslims daily during the holy month. The emphasis on health and organizational standards reflects the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's commitment to the safety of pilgrims and visitors, ensuring the provision of healthy and safe meals that meet international food safety standards, especially given the immense crowds that necessitate meticulous timing and rapid distribution and removal.

Economic and operational impact

The Ramadan season presents a major investment opportunity for the Kingdom's catering sector, as this regulation fosters competition among national companies to provide the best services. Furthermore, the requirement for a high production capacity (10,000 meals) enhances the efficiency of supply chains and reduces waste, ensuring that Iftar meals reach those fasting on time and in high quality, thus contributing to a safe and reassuring spiritual environment that enables visitors to perform their religious rituals with ease.