The holy month of Ramadan has its charm for millions of pilgrims from various parts of the world flock to perform Umrah. The reason is that Umrah performed during the holy month of Ramadan is considered to have the equivalent of a Hajj.
No wonder that in just over a week of Ramadan, nearly 2 million Muslims have performed Umrah and lesser pilgrimages at Masjid Al Haran in the holy city of Mecca since the holy month of Ramadan began on April 2.
It was conveyed directly by the Saudi authorities. According to Osama bin Mansour, deputy head of the Presidency General For Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques for Congregational Management, all congregations have been carrying out rituals from the first of Ramadan until its tenth day while still following the protocol of health precautions.
He added that the Grand Mosque had provided integrated services to suit the needs of pilgrims and worshippers in getting the best experience during their visit to the holy mosque. One of the integrated services provided is designated tracks for the elderly and people with physical disabilities.
He further explained that the General Presidency had devoted its total capacity to serving the Umrah pilgrims during the holy month of Ramadan, which is usually the peak of Umrah. In addition, it has been determined that the entire courtyard around the Holy Kaaba is reserved for worshipers to perform circumambulation rituals.
The enthusiasm of the Pilgrims to perform Umrah cannot be separated from the Saudi Arabian government’s decision not to limit the number of pilgrims wishing to perform Umrah this year.
Saudi authorities recently relaxed measures to perform Umrah, which is in line with the Kingdom’s move, also lifting most of the COVID-19 restrictions.
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has revoked several preventive measures, including canceling permits to pray at the two holy mosques and canceling mandatory immunization checks to enter the two sacred places for all worshippers.
Not only that, but the Ministry has also revoked the mandatory registration of immunization data for Muslims abroad to obtain Umrah permits. The mandatory presentation of negative PCR test results for worshipers wishing to access the two holy mosques has also been lifted.
