In an atmosphere of faith, tranquility, and peace, millions of worshippers and pilgrims flocked to the Grand Mosque in Mecca on the night of the 29th of Ramadan to perform the Isha and Taraweeh prayers and attend the completion of the Quran recitation . From the early hours of the morning, the courtyards, the Mataf (circumambulation area), and the roads leading to it were filled with pilgrims who came from all corners of the earth to perform their rituals with ease and safety, thanks to God and the extensive preparations and development projects undertaken by the government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia under the supervision and guidance of its wise leadership.
A rich history and great significance for the night of the 29th
This annual event holds profound historical and spiritual significance for Muslims. For decades, it has been customary in the Two Holy Mosques to complete the recitation of the entire Quran during the Qunut supplication and the Taraweeh prayers on this blessed night, which Muslims seek to witness Laylat al-Qadr (the Night of Decree). Historically, this night has received immense attention from the leaders of the Saudi state since its founding, with all state resources mobilized to serve those visiting the Holy Mosque. This night is the culmination of a month of fasting and prayer, a time when hearts are filled with supplication and eyes overflow with tears of reverence for God and hope for His forgiveness, making it a pivotal moment of faith where scenes of humility and devotion are manifest.
The impact of completing the recitation of the Quran in the Grand Mosque on the Islamic world
The impact of completing the recitation of the Quran at the Grand Mosque in Mecca extends far beyond the local sphere, resonating regionally and internationally, touching the hearts of over 1.5 billion Muslims worldwide. Internationally, prayers and supplications are broadcast live via satellite and various digital platforms, strengthening the unity and spiritual connection of the Muslim Ummah as Muslims across the globe turn their attention towards the Holy Kaaba. Locally and regionally, this massive gathering reflects the Kingdom's exceptional ability to manage such large crowds efficiently and effectively, highlighting Saudi Arabia's leading role in serving the Two Holy Mosques, in addition to its significant positive impact on the economic and commercial activity in the Holy City.
An integrated service system for the guests of God
To ensure the comfort of worshippers on this exceptional night, the General Authority for the Care of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque mobilized all its resources and capabilities within a comprehensive operational framework, in coordination with relevant security and service agencies. Pilgrims were received, their movement organized, and they were directed smoothly to the circumambulation area and designated prayer areas. Special priority was given to the elderly and people with disabilities by providing accessible pathways and electric and manual wheelchairs via the 'Tanaqul' app, facilitating their movement and ensuring they could perform their rituals without difficulty. The wheelchair operators were organized according to precise operational plans.
Signage and modern technologies to facilitate worship
To facilitate access for visitors, the Authority has installed thousands of directional signs categorized by location to help worshippers reach services and facilities. In response to the increased numbers, cleaning, sanitizing, and perfuming operations have been intensified around the clock using the latest equipment and machinery. Restrooms are fully operational, and the Grand Mosque has been furnished with numerous luxurious carpets. Multiple points of sale for chilled and unchilled Zamzam water have also been established, and copies of the Quran are available throughout the mosque.
Highly efficient crowd management and square organization
The General Presidency for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques (Grand Mosque) has increased the number of supervisors at the gates of the Grand Mosque to guide worshippers and regulate their entry and exit, utilizing multilingual electronic screens for spatial guidance. Field efforts have been intensified through qualified personnel overseeing the courtyards and corridors, and directing worshippers to the upper levels when the ground-level prayer areas reach capacity. As part of the "Ask Me" initiative, on-site guidance services have been provided in several languages, ensuring the readiness of sound, air conditioning, and ventilation systems, the functionality of escalators and elevators, and the application of the highest environmental protection standards, along with monitoring weather conditions to guarantee a healthy and safe environment for all pilgrims.
