Advanced services for women in the Grand Mosque in Mecca during Ramadan
With the arrival of the holy month of Ramadan, which sees millions of Muslims flocking to Mecca, the General Presidency for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques, represented by the Women's Affairs Agency, has intensified its efforts to provide a comprehensive system of services aimed at enriching the spiritual experience of millions of female pilgrims and worshippers. These efforts combine direct on-site guidance with innovative digital awareness programs to ensure that women can perform their religious duties in a serene and faith-filled atmosphere.
Historical background and future vision for serving the guests of God
These efforts are based on the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's long history of serving the Two Holy Mosques and their visitors. For decades, the Kingdom has prioritized the development of services provided to pilgrims. Within the framework of Saudi Vision 2030, these services have undergone a qualitative transformation, with digital transformation and women's empowerment becoming key pillars in enhancing the Hajj and Umrah experience. The activation of the Women's Affairs Agency and its provision with qualified personnel and modern technologies embodies this approach, aiming to offer specialized services that meet the needs of female visitors and ensure their comfort.
A combination of field guidance and digital solutions
In the heart of the Grand Mosque, qualified female staff are deployed in the women's prayer areas, undertaking vital and varied tasks. These include providing direct religious guidance, answering visitors' questions, correcting common errors in prayer, and assisting in aligning rows to ensure smooth movement and order. The female guides also work to raise awareness of the virtues of Ramadan and encourage female visitors to make the most of their time in acts of worship and devotion, creating an ideal environment for spiritual reflection.
To keep pace with the digital age, the operational plan focused on integrating technology into the services provided. Platforms were activated for distributing guidebooks and religious pamphlets electronically, accessible by scanning QR codes displayed on electronic screens and throughout the Haram. This step not only facilitates access to reliable information but also contributes to maintaining the cleanliness of the Grand Mosque and reducing the use of printed materials.
Importance and impact at both the local and international levels
The significance of these initiatives extends far beyond the Grand Mosque, sending a powerful message to the Muslim world about the exceptional care the Kingdom provides to pilgrims, both men and women. Domestically, these services enhance the religious experience for female citizens and residents, highlighting the active role of Saudi women in serving their faith and their nation. Internationally, they reflect the Kingdom's civilized image and its ability to efficiently and effectively manage millions of pilgrims, emphasizing the provision of a safe and welcoming environment for women from all over the world, thus reinforcing the Kingdom's position as the heart of the Muslim world and a premier spiritual destination for Muslims.
