High Readiness for Hajj: Successful Farewell Tawaf for Pilgrims
In a display of exceptional preparedness, the General Authority for the Care of the Two Holy Mosques, alongside relevant authorities, facilitated the Farewell Tawaf for pilgrims concluding their Hajj rituals. This ceremonial act is performed in accordance with the Quranic verse that encourages remembrance of Allah during specific days: "And remember Allah during [the appointed] days. And whoever hastens [his departure] in two days, there is no sin upon him; and whoever delays [until the third] – there is no sin upon him for one who fears [Allah]. And fear Allah and know that unto Him you will be gathered."
Today, the Grand Mosque in Mecca witnessed unprecedented activity as the volume of Tawaf exceeded its operational capacity, reaching over 107,000 pilgrims per hour. This remarkable influx was managed by a comprehensive operational plan tailored specifically for this year’s Hajj season, showcasing the meticulous preparation involved.
To ensure a streamlined experience for the pilgrims in a rush, various services were deployed to manage crowd control and facilitate smooth movement within the Grand Mosque. Active transportation services included 400 electric carts and over 10,000 manual carts, enhancing the pilgrims’ mobility. Additionally, the site was equipped with 210 smart gates designed to manage entry and exit effectively.
The capacity for the Sa’i ritual, which involves the walking between the hills of Safa and Marwah, reached around 118,000 participants per hour. To further assist pilgrims, there were 12 designated carts available for those looking to exit the rituals, alongside four luggage storage points, allowing for hassle-free movement during their stay.
The comprehensive service system in place extended beyond transportation. The mosque’s courtyards housed two hospitals, 99 restroom facilities, and more than 50 field guidance stations supported by dedicated teams. These teams were instrumental in directing and assisting pilgrims, ensuring they had access to necessary resources and support throughout their rituals.
These extensive efforts align with the directives of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and His Royal Highness, the Crown Prince, aimed at providing the highest standards of service to the guests of Allah. The focus has been on facilitating their rituals while ensuring an environment that prioritizes security, comfort, and peace of mind.
Through these systematic approaches, the authorities not only attended to the needs of the pilgrims but also reinforced the commitment to making the spiritual experience of Hajj as seamless and meaningful as possible. The meticulous planning and execution reflect a deep respect for the traditions of Hajj while embracing modern solutions to enhance the experience for millions of attendees.
The Hajj season serves as a reminder of the importance of community, faith, and devotion, bringing together Muslims from around the globe. The authorities involved continue to strive towards excellence in every aspect of the pilgrimage, ensuring every individual feels welcomed, safe, and spiritually fulfilled.
As the Farewell Tawaf marks the conclusion of this sacred journey for many, it also emphasizes the collective effort of numerous organizations and volunteers who come together each year, demonstrating their commitment to facilitating one of the largest gatherings of faith worldwide. Through their unwavering dedication, they not only uphold the traditions of the Hajj but also promote a shared understanding of peace, hope, and brotherhood among pilgrims.
In summary, the 2023 Hajj witnessed remarkable organizational success, highlighted by extensive services and infrastructure that allowed pilgrims to perform their rituals with ease and devotion. This year’s efforts have established a new standard of excellence in managing such a significant global event, ensuring that the spirit of Hajj thrives in an atmosphere of safety and reverence.
