MINA, May 28 — On the 10th day of Dhu Al-Hijjah, the pilgrims’ journey to perform Tawaf Al-Ifadah begins upon arrival at the Grand Mosque, Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported.
Saudi Arabia’s General Authority for the Care of the Two Holy Mosques operates an integrated system designed to facilitate the ritual smoothly and safely through advanced field and technical services focused on crowd management and pilgrim comfort.
At the mosque, field teams deployed across corridors and courtyards receive pilgrims and provide guidance and direct movement toward appropriate routes based on crowd density. They also assist pilgrims with inquiries, helping them reach the Mataf and Al-Sa’i areas with ease.
As pilgrims enter, smart counting sensors installed at entry points begin monitoring real-time inflow and outflow, integrated with operational data linked to Nusuk cards to accurately determine occupancy levels inside the mosque.
The system continuously analyses data and compares it with the Mataf’s capacity thresholds in line with approved crowd-management standards, helping ensure smooth movement and prevent congestion.
Based on these real-time readings, pilgrims are directed to available Tawaf levels. When crowd levels remain within permissible limits, they are guided to the Mataf on the ground floor, while higher-density conditions trigger redirection to the upper levels to ensure balanced distribution and ease of movement.
After completing Tawaf, pilgrims proceed to Al-Sa’i through organised pathways supported by clear signage and guidance teams, facilitating movement between Safa and Marwa within a fully prepared operational environment.
Meanwhile, cleaning and sanitation teams continue round-the-clock operations to maintain prayer areas and corridors, ensuring a comfortable environment for pilgrims.
Zamzam water services are also available through distribution points and dispensers across various areas, ensuring easy access to the blessed water.
For elderly pilgrims and persons with disabilities, the authority makes electric and manual carts available at designated stations, enabling them to perform rituals with ease and reassurance.
After completing Sa’i, pilgrims can benefit from the tahallul service (ritual hair cutting for exiting the state of Ihram) at designated locations prepared according to strict organisational and health standards.
This integrated operational system reflects the advanced care provided to pilgrims and highlights the coordination between field and technical services that enables pilgrims to perform Tawaf Al-Ifadah and Sa’i in a safe and orderly environment.
