358,000 beneficiaries of translation services at the Grand Mosque: Project details
As part of ongoing efforts to serve pilgrims to the Holy Mosque in Mecca, the Hajj and Umrah Gift Association , in strategic partnership with the General Presidency for Religious Affairs at the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque, has achieved a significant milestone with its "Translation and Inquiry Response" project. This vital project aims to overcome language barriers for pilgrims of various nationalities and ensure their easy access to accurate religious and guidance information.
Quality efforts in international languages
The CEO of the association, Engineer Turki Al-Hutairshi, revealed figures reflecting the scale of the diligent work, explaining that the project successfully served more than 358,300 pilgrims in a single year. This project is implemented by a qualified team of 351 specialized translators working around the clock to provide services in more than 20 international languages . This initiative reflects the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's commitment to maximizing the spiritual and guidance experience within the Two Holy Mosques and providing a worship environment free of language barriers.
Strategic dimensions and alignment with Vision 2030
This project cannot be viewed in isolation from the Kingdom's overall direction, as it aligns directly with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 and the Guests of God Service Program, which aims to host millions of pilgrims and Umrah performers annually. With the increasing number of pilgrims arriving from non-Arabic speaking countries, the importance of simultaneous interpretation becomes paramount as a cornerstone for ensuring the quality of the religious experience. The project is not limited to literal translation but extends to include spatial guidance and religious instruction, contributing to the pilgrim's peace of mind and the validity of their worship.
Service locations and field operation mechanism
To ensure comprehensive coverage, service points were strategically distributed across 16 vital field locations within the Grand Mosque, including:
- King Abdulaziz Gate.
- King Fahd Gate.
- Ismail's Gate.
- The Mataf and Ajyad area.
- Bab al-Safa.
These points operate according to a well-defined operational plan covering four shifts daily, ensuring continuous 24-hour service. These efforts are intensified and the number of interpreters is proactively doubled during peak seasons, such as Ramadan and Hajj, to manage the high volume of people, ensure smooth traffic flow, and answer questions from the crowds.
The importance of religious guidance and the integration of services
In addition to translation, the project offers support services that reinforce the concept of "Saudi hospitality." These services include coordinating communication between the inquirer and the mufti or guide, organizing the movement of beneficiaries, distributing educational materials, and providing refreshments. This integration of knowledge-based services (translation) and humanitarian services (hospitality) reflects the Kingdom's shining example of serving Islam and Muslims, and underscores that serving pilgrims is an honor and a responsibility passed down through generations.
In conclusion, this project represents a model of successful partnership between the third (charitable) sector and government agencies, represented by the General Presidency for Religious Affairs, to achieve the aspirations of the wise leadership - may God support them - in harnessing all capabilities for the comfort and peace of mind of those visiting the Two Holy Mosques.
