With the arrival of the holy month of Ramadan, efforts intensify in Mecca to serve the pilgrims, highlighting the vital role played by the Ministry of Interior's Agency for Security Forces. These security forces continue their intensive field operations to participate in organizing and managing crowds within the Grand Mosque and its surrounding courtyards, as part of a comprehensive security plan aimed at enhancing the flow of pilgrims and visitors during this peak season for Umrah.
Historical background and general context of crowd management
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia possesses a long and deep-rooted history of crowd management, the largest of its kind globally, given its hosting of millions of pilgrims annually. This expertise has evolved over decades, from traditional methods to the use of cutting-edge technologies and strategic plans. The establishment of specialized security sectors, such as security regiments, is part of this ongoing development. Their personnel are trained to handle diverse field conditions with high efficiency, while emphasizing the humane treatment of pilgrims.
Precise tasks to ensure smooth operation and safety
The security personnel are stationed at strategic points within the Grand Mosque in Mecca, where they participate in managing the flow of pilgrims in the courtyards, corridors, and pathways leading to the circumambulation area (Mataf) and the area between Safa and Marwa (Mas'a). This strategic deployment facilitates the movement of pilgrims and prevents overcrowding, especially during peak times such as prayer times, Taraweeh prayers, and the last ten days of Ramadan. Furthermore, they continuously monitor crowd density and manage it on the ground to ensure order and enhance everyone's safety, in full coordination with all other security and service agencies operating within the Grand Mosque.
Importance and impact at the local and international levels
The importance of these efforts extends beyond the local aspect of providing a safe and secure environment for citizens, residents, and pilgrims; it encompasses a crucial international and regional dimension. The Kingdom's success in managing the Umrah season during Ramadan reflects its exceptional ability to organize the world's largest religious gatherings, reinforcing its position as a leader of the Islamic world and custodian of the Two Holy Mosques. Furthermore, providing a safe and seamless spiritual experience for millions of Muslims from around the globe leaves a lasting positive impression and underscores the Kingdom's civilizational and humanitarian message. These efforts directly contribute to achieving one of the most important objectives of Saudi Vision 2030: enhancing the experience of pilgrims and serving them to the fullest extent.
