Saudi scouts' efforts in serving pilgrims in Mecca
The Saudi Arabian Scouts Association has achieved a remarkable qualitative leap in the level of field services it provides to pilgrims and visitors in Makkah, as part of its continuous efforts to keep pace with the objectives of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 , which pays great attention to promoting volunteer work and increasing the number of volunteers, as well as providing the best services to those visiting the Two Holy Mosques.
An inspection tour to assess readiness
In this context, the Assistant Secretary-General for Technical Affairs of the Association, Dr. Majid Al-Manea, conducted a comprehensive field inspection of the Ramadan public service camp in Mecca. The tour aimed to directly assess the readiness of the volunteer staff and ensure their full preparedness to handle the large crowds that the Grand Mosque experiences during the holy month.
The tour included direct and fruitful meetings with scout leaders and young volunteers spread across the courtyards of the Holy Mosque in Mecca, where Dr. Al-Manea listened to a detailed explanation of the operational plans implemented on the ground.
A long history of serving pilgrims and Umrah performers
These efforts are an extension of the long and distinguished history of Saudi scouts in serving pilgrims performing Hajj and Umrah. For decades, the association has dedicated its human resources to serving the Two Holy Mosques. The role of the Saudi scout is no longer limited to occasional assistance, but has evolved into a structured, institutional effort that relies on professional training and modern technologies in crowd management and guiding lost pilgrims. This has made the scouts a strategic partner for governmental and security agencies during the Hajj and Umrah seasons.
Precise organizational mechanisms and crowd management
Dr. Al-Manea was briefed on the organizational mechanisms employed in crowd management and the guidance and direction operations carried out by the scouting units with precision and high professionalism. These efforts play a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth flow of pilgrims and worshippers, facilitating their movement within the courtyards and passageways, thus directly contributing to enriching their spiritual experience and providing an atmosphere of tranquility and peace within the precincts of the Holy Mosque.
Strengthening the values of national belonging
Dr. Al-Manea explained that these camps transcend the traditional concept of service, becoming a vital educational platform for cultivating the values of volunteerism among young people and instilling a sense of national belonging in youth. He emphasized that the field experience reflects a positive image of the nation's youth, embodying their strong sense of responsibility and spirit of giving and sacrifice—values that represent a cornerstone of the global scouting movement's mission to build human character and develop capabilities.
Integration with the government system
The Assistant Secretary-General revealed the association's ongoing efforts to broaden cooperation and integration with various governmental and private sectors operating within the system for serving visitors and pilgrims. This integration is a crucial element in the success of religious seasons, as the scouts join forces with the Civil Defense, the Ministry of Health, and security agencies to provide a harmonious system of services that ensures the safety and comfort of the pilgrims.
Dr. Al-Manea concluded his visit by appreciating the exceptional efforts made by the field leaders, praising the continuous support and follow-up from the Minister of Education, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Association, to improve the quality of services and achieve the aspirations of the wise leadership in serving the visitors of the Two Holy Mosques.
