Mecca Grand Mosque: Large Bags, Food Not Permitted

IQNA – The Grand Mosque in Mecca has announced new rules for Umrah pilgrims to ensure their safety and comfort while performing the rituals of Tawaf and Sa'i.

The rules ban the entry of certain data-x-items that could cause disruption or harm to the pilgrims or the mosque, Saudi media outlets reported on Saturday.

According to Saif Al Salami, the Supervisor of the Grand Mosque Gates Department, the banned data-x-items include large travel bags, unauthorised water bags, food and beverages (except coffee, dates, and water), sharp instruments, flammable liquids, and strollers.

He said that these data-x-items are bulky or dangerous and could pose a risk in crowded areas. He added that the rules are part of a wider effort to facilitate a smooth and secure pilgrimage for everyone.

The rules aim to improve the flow of pilgrims in the Grand Mosque, especially during busy times of worship. They also seek to enhance the spiritual environment and the focus on the religious meaning of the Umrah pilgrimage.

Umrah is a minor pilgrimage that can be done at any time of the year. It involves two main rituals: Tawaf, the circling of the Holy Kaaba, and Sa'i, the running between Safa and Marwa.

The Grand Mosque is the destination of millions of Muslims every year who come to perform Umrah or Hajj, the major pilgrimage that is expected to take place in June this year.

Last year, a record number of 13.5 million pilgrims performed Umrah, according to Saudi authorities.

Source: Agencies