Ramadan 2024: Iftar Guidelines Announced for Makkah Grand Mosque
The General Authority for the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque has initiated the application process for iftar meal service providers at the Grand Mosque in Makkah for the upcoming Ramadan. This announcement outlines specific conditions and standards that must be adhered to by those interested in offering their services during the holy month.
According to the guidelines, service providers can electronically select their meal distribution location and are obliged to enter into contracts with catering companies or factories and warehouses endorsed by the Saudi Food and Drug Authority. This ensures that the meals served meet the high standards of quality and safety required for such a significant service.
The authority has set limitations on the number of sufras (meal spreads) that can be provided, with individual philanthropists allowed to offer up to two sufras. In contrast, charitable organisations and endowments may request permission for up to 10 sufras. The meals are to consist of specific items, including pitted dates, cakes, pastries and juice, all of which must be packaged according to approved conditions that will be detailed in a forthcoming electronic link.
This initiative is part of the presidency's efforts to enhance the experience of visitors to the Grand Mosque by providing distinguished services that cater to their needs during Ramadan. The presidency is also committed to offering iftar services to fasting individuals at the Prophet's Mosque, with expectations set for the distribution of over 8.5 million iftar meals at designated locations within the mosque and its courtyards throughout Ramadan.
In addition to the iftar meal services, over 45 million beneficiaries are expected to receive Zamzam water services. This extensive distribution effort includes 2.5 million bottles of Zamzam water reserved for worshippers in the Two Holy Mosques and the provision of drinking cups at 18,000 Zamzam water coolers located throughout the Prophet's Mosque. Additionally, 1,205 water fountains for drinking have been prepared and distributed across the mosque's external courtyards, ensuring that the needs of worshippers are met.
The recent announcement by Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Tawfiq Al-Rabiah, highlighted the historic record of 13.55 million Umrah pilgrims in 2023. During his speech at the third Hajj and Umrah Expo last month, he noted that the previous highest number of Umrah pilgrims from outside the Kingdom was recorded in 2019, with an estimate of 8.55 million. This substantial increase in pilgrims underscores the significance of the services provided by the General Authority for the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque, as they strive to accommodate the spiritual and practical needs of millions of worshippers during the Holy Month of Ramadan.
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