As part of ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and security of millions of Muslims visiting Madinah, the General Directorate of Civil Defense announced the intensification of preventative inspections and safety measures at the Prophet's Mosque and the surrounding central area. This proactive step is part of a comprehensive plan aimed at providing a safe and reassuring environment for visitors, pilgrims, and worshippers, especially during peak seasons.
The enhanced measures included thorough inspection tours of all facilities within the Prophet's Mosque and its courtyards, as well as accommodations, hotels, and shopping centers in the central area. These tours focused on ensuring compliance with all safety and fire protection requirements, verifying the efficiency of alarm and fire suppression systems, the safety of emergency exits, and the readiness of all necessary equipment to handle any potential emergency.
Historical background and paramount importance
The Prophet's Mosque holds a special place in the hearts of Muslims worldwide, being the second holiest site in Islam after the Grand Mosque in Mecca. Since the founding of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the leadership has given great attention to serving, expanding, and developing the Two Holy Mosques, placing the safety and security of their visitors at the forefront of its priorities. With the massive expansions the Prophet's Mosque has undergone throughout history, aimed at accommodating the increasing number of visitors, the need arose for a sophisticated security and safety system that could keep pace with these expansions and address the logistical challenges of managing millions of people.
Local and international impact
Domestically, these efforts reflect the capability and efficiency of Saudi government agencies, particularly the Civil Defense, in managing crises and protecting lives and property. They also contribute to enhancing the sense of security among citizens, residents, and visitors, and support the religious tourism sector, a vital contributor to the national economy within the framework of the Kingdom's Vision 2030. Internationally, these measures send a reassuring message to the entire Muslim world, underscoring the Kingdom's leading role as custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and its commitment to providing the utmost comfort and safety for pilgrims arriving from all corners of the earth.
The Civil Defense confirmed the continued operation of its support centers and teams, rapid intervention units, and preventive supervision points strategically located within and around the Prophet's Mosque. These teams aim to achieve optimal response times in emergencies and provide immediate assistance. Furthermore, awareness and guidance messages are continuously broadcast via electronic screens and various media outlets in crowded areas to promote a culture of safety among visitors and worshippers.
The General Directorate of Civil Defense urged everyone to adhere to the announced safety guidelines and instructions, and to cooperate with Civil Defense personnel. In emergencies, call the unified number (911) in the Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh, and Eastern regions, or (998) in the rest of the Kingdom for immediate assistance.
