Raising awareness among pilgrims in Mecca: Intensive efforts by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs during Ramadan
The Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, represented by the General Secretariat for Islamic Awareness in Hajj, Umrah and Visitation, announced the intensification of its outreach and guidance programs for Umrah pilgrims in Makkah. This step comes as part of the second phase of the operational plan for the current Umrah season, coinciding with the significant increase in the number of pilgrims arriving to perform Umrah during the holy month of Ramadan, which witnesses the peak of the Umrah season annually.
Historical background and religious significance
Since its founding, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has placed paramount importance on serving the Two Holy Mosques and their visitors, considering this service an honor and a historical responsibility. These efforts intensify during major religious seasons, particularly during Ramadan, a month of special significance for Muslims, as performing Umrah during this time is of immense merit. During Ramadan, Makkah receives millions of pilgrims from around the world, necessitating a comprehensive system of guidance and support services to ensure they perform their rituals correctly, smoothly, and in a spiritually uplifting atmosphere.
Details of awareness programs
The Ministry's intensive programs in mosques surrounding the Grand Mosque in Mecca include a series of lectures, daily lessons, and sermons delivered after the obligatory prayers. These programs are presented by a select group of officially accredited preachers, with simultaneous interpretation provided in several major world languages, such as English, Urdu, French, and Bengali, among others, to reach the widest possible audience of pilgrims from diverse nationalities and cultures. The topics covered include a detailed, step-by-step explanation of the rulings and rituals of Umrah, the virtues of fasting and prayer during Ramadan, and the reinforcement of sound Islamic doctrine and monotheism, while promoting the values of moderation and balance advocated by Islam.
Expected impact and importance of the initiative
The importance of these programs lies in their direct impact on the pilgrim's experience, enabling them to perform their rituals with understanding and knowledge, avoiding common mistakes and erroneous practices. Locally, these efforts reflect the Kingdom's leading role in serving Islam and Muslims, highlighting the wise leadership's commitment to providing every means of comfort and reassurance to the guests of God. Internationally, these initiatives enhance the Kingdom's civilized image as a safe and well-organized religious destination, presenting Islam's tolerant message to the world. They also work to intellectually fortify pilgrims by addressing their inquiries and doubts, thus contributing to strengthening intellectual security and combating extremist ideologies. These efforts are an extension of the Kingdom's noble mission and a reaffirmation of its ongoing commitment to developing services for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims in line with the Kingdom's Vision 2030.
