The Scout Movement's Giving Arms and its Role in Serving Pilgrims During Ramadan
With the arrival of the blessed month of Ramadan, the spirit of human solidarity is renewed in the holiest of places, as scouts their sleeves to offer the finest examples of generosity and volunteerism. The scene at the Two Holy Mosques is incomplete without seeing these young people competing to serve the pilgrims, creating a beautiful tableau that reflects the values of generosity and hospitality inherent in the people of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and reaffirming the vital role that volunteer work plays in the success of the Umrah and visitation seasons.
A long-standing legacy of volunteer work in the Two Holy Mosques
The presence of scouts in the courtyards of the Grand Mosque in Mecca and the Prophet's Mosque in Medina is not a recent phenomenon, but rather the continuation of a long and distinguished history of organized institutional work. For decades, the Saudi Arabian Scouts Association has undertaken the responsibility of supporting governmental and security agencies in managing crowds and organizing the massive influx of people. This rich history has instilled in successive generations of scouts and rovers the values of discipline and responsibility, who inherit the honor of service year after year, gaining cumulative experience that has made them an indispensable element in the service system during religious seasons.
Diversity of tasks and integration of efforts in serving the guests of God
The tasks performed by the scout heroes are numerous, encompassing various humanitarian and organizational aspects, all aimed at a single goal: serving the pilgrims and facilitating their performance of the Hajj rituals. Scouts are deployed throughout the squares and plazas surrounding the Two Holy Mosques, guiding lost pilgrims to their destinations, assisting the elderly and people with disabilities by pushing wheelchairs, and organizing worshippers to ensure smooth flow and prevent overcrowding. Their role also extends to collaborating with health centers to provide assistance to patients and working alongside security personnel to ensure the safety of pilgrims, embodying a unique integration of official and volunteer efforts.
A civilizational message and an impact that transcends borders
The efforts of the young scouts extend far beyond the local level, reaching regional and international dimensions. When pilgrims from around the world witness these dedicated young volunteers, they form a positive image of the Kingdom's youth and of Islam's tolerant values of cooperation and altruism. This civilized behavior aligns perfectly with the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which aspires to reach one million volunteers, considering serving pilgrims an honor and a national responsibility. The scout's smile and helping hand are a message of peace and love that resonates in the hearts of visitors, who return home with unforgettable memories of warm hospitality and kindness.
