The General Authority for the Care of the Prophet's Mosque achieved a remarkable field and humanitarian accomplishment during 2025, with statistics recording the participation of 27,154 male and female volunteers in providing various services to pilgrims, achieving a record of 519,396 volunteer hours. These figures reflect the overwhelming enthusiasm of the Kingdom's citizens to participate in the honor of serving visitors and worshippers at the second holiest site in Islam.
Details of volunteer efforts and records
The agency explained that the volunteer work during the past year was not haphazard, but rather organized through 373 carefully planned volunteer opportunities to cover all the needs of the Prophet's Mosque and its courtyards. The volunteers were distributed across various field areas, which contributed to raising the quality of services provided and facilitating the visitor's journey from arrival to departure, in a scene that embodies the highest ideals of solidarity and dedication to serving those who visit the Mosque of the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him).
The context of Vision 2030 and promoting a culture of volunteering
These figures cannot be viewed in isolation from the broader national context in Saudi Arabia, where promoting volunteerism is a cornerstone of Vision 2030, which aims to reach one million volunteers annually. The Two Holy Mosques are considered the most fertile and attractive environment for volunteers due to their profound spiritual significance and the multiplied rewards associated with their service. Relevant authorities are continuously working to regulate volunteer work and facilitate the participation of young men and women in this system, thereby strengthening the values of responsible citizenship and belonging.
Diverse services: from crowd management to medical care
The services provided by the volunteers included a wide range of tasks, most notably:
- Welcoming and guiding visitors: Organizing crowds during peak times and prayers to ensure smooth movement and prevent overcrowding.
- Social care: Providing special assistance to the elderly and people with disabilities, and providing them with wheelchairs.
- Food and water services: Active participation in organizing Iftar meals for fasting people and distributing Zamzam water bottles and chilled water in the courtyards.
Specialized services and translation
The efforts were not limited to logistical services but extended to highly specialized areas. Volunteers participated in providing medical and first aid services in cooperation with relevant health authorities, forming a first line of defense in emergencies. The role of volunteers was also prominent in providing translation and guidance services for non-Arabic speakers, a vital role given the immense cultural and linguistic diversity of visitors to the Prophet's Mosque. Additionally, they assisted female visitors through the enrichment pathway and introduced them to the technical services and interactive screens.
Social and international impact
This volunteer movement carries profound significance that transcends mere numbers; it sends a global message about Saudi hospitality and the community's dedication to serving pilgrims. It also contributes to creating a positive image among visitors from around the world, who experience this direct care and attention firsthand. Locally, this work helps hone the skills of Saudi youth and enhance their experience in crowd management and public interaction, thus fostering a generation that is aware of and proactive in serving their faith and their country.
