As part of its ongoing humanitarian and religious efforts, the Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Vienna launched the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' Dates Distribution Program in the Republic of Austria, in the presence of the Ambassador of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques to Austria and Permanent Representative, Dr. Abdullah bin Khalid Tolah. This program, overseen by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, is part of a global initiative aimed at sharing the joy of the holy month of Ramadan with Muslims around the world.
The inauguration ceremony was held at the embassy in Vienna, with the participation of prominent figures including Dr. Ahmed bin Saad Al-Mufarrah, President of the Islamic Center and General Supervisor of the Islamic Association in Vienna, and Mr. Abdulrahman bin Mohammed Al-Nasser, Head of the Islamic Affairs Department at the embassy. This year, five tons of premium Saudi dates have been allocated to Austria, and it is expected that more than 20,000 Muslims across various Austrian cities will benefit from them.
Historical and religious context of the initiative
The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' Dates Gift Program is a long-standing annual tradition that reflects the Kingdom's leading role in serving Islam and Muslims. Dates hold special significance in Islamic culture, with breaking the fast with them being a blessed Sunnah (Prophetic tradition) during Ramadan. As one of the world's largest producers of high-quality dates, the Kingdom makes this gift a symbol of generosity and giving, and a bridge for cultural and religious communication with Muslim communities abroad. This program is not limited to Austria; it extends to dozens of countries across various continents, underscoring the Kingdom's global mission of spreading goodness and promoting the values of solidarity.
The importance and expected impact of the program
Domestically in Austria, the program strengthens ties between the embassy and the Muslim community, and supports Islamic centers and mosques in fulfilling their mission during the holy month. It also presents a positive image of Islam as a religion of compassion and solidarity. Internationally, this initiative is a tool of humanitarian diplomacy that reinforces the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's position as a leader of the Islamic world. It reflects the keenness of the wise leadership, represented by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and his Crown Prince, His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman, to care for Muslims everywhere and to convey the Kingdom's noble message of giving and peace.
Ambassador Tawla confirmed that the distribution process would include mosques and Islamic centers in various Austrian cities to ensure this valuable gift reaches those who deserve it. The beneficiaries of the program expressed their deep gratitude to the Kingdom's leadership for this generous gesture, which reflects the depth of Islamic brotherhood, and commended the efforts of the Ministry of Islamic Affairs in ensuring the success of this global program annually.
