Madinah, Saudi Arabia — With Ramadan approaching, Saudi authorities have finalized updated regulations for iftar meal services at the Prophet’s Mosque (Masjid an-Nabawi) in Madinah.
The new guidelines, designed to enhance diversity and quality, permit caterers to include two additional food items alongside the mandatory iftar staples.
The General Authority for the Care of the Two Holy Mosques confirmed the core iftar menu will remain unchanged, featuring dates, bread, yogurt, bottled water, and packaged tissues.
However, approved providers can now supplement meals with items like nuts, cupcakes, maamoul (date-filled cookies), cream pastries, or stuffed dates to offer worshipers more variety.
Strict Requirements for Caterers
To ensure safety and efficiency, the Authority has outlined rigorous criteria for meal providers:
- Registration: Only companies with verified experience in Hajj/Umrah catering will be authorized.
- Facilities: Dedicated packing areas of at least 600 square meters and a minimum of three licensed refrigerated vehicles for transport.
- Compliance: A clean operational record over the past two years and close coordination with mosque officials to streamline meal distribution.
Providers must adhere to strict sanitation protocols and collaborate with mosque supervisors to avoid disruptions during iftar.
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