Which items can’t be carried inside Grand Mosque in Saudi Arabia? Authorities in Saudi Arabia have recently imposed a ban on several items within the revered Grand Mosque in Mecca, Islam’s holiest site, visited by millions of Muslims each year.
Which items can’t be carried inside Grand Mosque in Saudi Arabia?
Saif Al Salami, Supervisor of the Grand Mosque Gates Department, has confirmed the prohibition of unauthorized water bags, travel bags, and food items on the mosque premises.
These measures aim to enhance the safety and comfort of Umrah pilgrims during their sacred rituals, such as circumambulation and Sa’i between Safa and Marwa.
The ban specifically targets large travel bags, citing safety concerns due to their bulkiness, which could pose risks in crowded areas.
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This decision is part of a broader initiative geared toward facilitating a seamless and secure pilgrimage experience for all worshippers.
Included in the list of prohibited items are most food and beverages, except for coffee, dates, and water, as well as sharp instruments, flammable liquids, and strollers, in addition to large bags.
These restrictions are designed to optimize the flow of pilgrims within the Grand Mosque, particularly during peak worship times, with the ultimate goal of fostering a spiritually uplifting atmosphere and preserving the religious significance of the Umrah pilgrimage.
The Grand Mosque in Mecca, home to the sacred Kaaba, serves as a magnet for millions of Muslims worldwide who converge to partake in prayers, Umrah, and Hajj.
Authorities are currently gearing up for the upcoming Hajj pilgrimage scheduled for June, with agreements already in place with various countries.
Last year, statistics revealed that approximately 2 million pilgrims participated in Hajj, while over 13 million undertook the Umrah pilgrimage.
These figures reflect a resurgence in religious travel after pandemic-related restrictions were lifted, signaling a return to normalcy in the realm of spiritual journeys.
