Deep-rooted humanitarian efforts and service spanning decades
In the heart of the holiest place on earth, where the hearts of millions of Muslims converge, noble humanitarian efforts are undertaken by the young men of the Saudi Arabian Scouts. With each Hajj or Umrah season, members of the Saudi Arabian Scouts Association transform into angels of mercy, spreading throughout the courtyards and corridors of the Grand Mosque in Mecca, offering assistance and support to the pilgrims, in a scene that reflects the highest values of giving and dedication.
This noble service is not a recent development, but rather an extension of a long legacy of volunteer work that the Saudi Scouts have consistently undertaken for decades. The Scouts' participation in serving pilgrims was established in an organized manner decades ago, becoming an integral part of the comprehensive services provided by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to ensure the comfort and safety of pilgrims. Over time, this service has evolved from simple individual efforts into a well-organized, institutional effort that utilizes the latest technologies and methods to provide assistance with the highest possible efficiency.
The mechanism of action and the importance of the role in crowd management
The scouts' primary mission is to guide those who are lost, a seemingly simple task that is of paramount importance given the millions of pilgrims who frequent the Holy Mosque. The scouts are stationed at strategic points and fixed and mobile guidance centers, equipped with detailed maps of the central area and smart applications on their mobile devices. They interact politely and patiently with people of various nationalities, using multiple languages to help the elderly, children, women, and those who do not speak Arabic reach their destinations, whether it be their hotels, the gates of the Holy Mosque, or the meeting points for their tour groups.
This role extends beyond mere guidance; it forms a vital support line for security and health authorities. Through their widespread deployment, scouts contribute to monitoring emergencies, providing first aid, facilitating crowd movement, and relieving pressure on security personnel, thus ensuring smooth traffic flow and reducing incidents of people getting lost or being trapped in stampedes.
Local and international influence enhances the Kingdom's image
Domestically, these efforts foster a culture of volunteerism among Saudi youth, instilling in them the values of social responsibility and serving others. Internationally, this shining example of dedicated Saudi youth serving the pilgrims leaves a profound and positive impact on Hajj and Umrah pilgrims from around the world. It is a powerful message reflecting the Kingdom's civilized and humanitarian character, and reaffirming its leadership in managing and organizing Hajj and Umrah seasons, not only through massive projects and advanced infrastructure, but also through the efforts of its volunteer citizens.
