In a move reflecting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's ongoing commitment to mosques and serving pilgrims, His Excellency the Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, Sheikh Dr. Abdul Latif bin Abdulaziz Al-Sheikh, inaugurated a package of vital projects for the maintenance and operation of mosques in the Madinah region. This took place during his official visit to the region, where he announced the launch of comprehensive maintenance and cleaning operations for approximately 800 mosques and prayer halls, at a total cost of 61 million riyals.
A qualitative leap in mosque services
These projects will raise the coverage of maintenance and cleaning contracts for mosques in the region to 91%, an indicator reflecting the Ministry's commitment to ensuring mosques are ready to receive worshippers and visitors around the clock. The contracts encompass five main projects that extend beyond modern mosques to include the care of historical mosques and prominent religious landmarks that form part of Islamic heritage, such as the Sayyid al-Shuhada Mosque, the Qiblatain Mosque, and the al-Khandaq Mosque. The projects also extend to mosques in the governorates of Al-Ula, Al-Ais, and Yanbu, ensuring comprehensive services throughout the region.
The historical and religious importance of Medina
These projects are of paramount importance given the special place Medina holds in the hearts of Muslims worldwide. It is the city of the Prophet's migration and his final resting place, and it receives millions of pilgrims and Umrah performers annually. Therefore, maintaining and equipping its mosques to the highest standards is not merely a routine task, but a fundamental pillar in the system of serving the guests of God, ensuring they can perform their religious rites in an atmosphere of tranquility and devotion, within a healthy and safe environment.
Alignment with the Kingdom's Vision 2030
This development initiative aligns with the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, specifically the Guests of God Service Program, which aims to enrich the religious and cultural experience of visitors. Maintaining historical mosques and developing their facilities directly contributes to promoting religious tourism and showcasing the Kingdom's rich Islamic heritage, while preserving the architectural and spiritual identity of these holy sites.
Supporting leadership and developing institutional work
In a statement, Dr. Abdul Latif Al-Sheikh affirmed that these achievements would not have been possible without the generous support of the wise leadership – may God protect them – which gives the Two Holy Mosques and mosques the utmost attention. During his inspection tour of the Ministry's branch in Madinah, His Excellency held an extensive meeting with the Ministry's undersecretaries and department directors, emphasizing the necessity of continuous field monitoring and the application of the highest standards of quality and safety in maintenance work, to ensure the sustainability of services provided in a manner befitting the status and sanctity of Madinah.
