In a move to support worshippers observing voluntary fasts, the General Presidency for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques has launched a structured iftar service at Masjid al-Haram in Makkah. This new initiative caters specifically to fasting Muslims on the White Days — the 13th, 14th, and 15th of each Islamic lunar month — as well as every Monday and Thursday, days traditionally encouraged in Islamic teachings for voluntary fasting.
The programme offers carefully prepared, nutritionally balanced low-calorie meals to pilgrims and residents alike. These meals are distributed on dining mats spread within designated prayer areas of the Grand Mosque, ensuring that the sanctity of the site is maintained while the physical needs of fasting worshippers are met.
Notably, thirty percent of the meals served originate from charitable endowments (waqf), reflecting the deeply rooted culture of giving and community welfare in Islam. An additional twenty percent of the meals have been specially designed to accommodate worshippers with specific dietary requirements, providing inclusivity and care for those with health considerations.
In addition to the seated dining setup, sterilized hand-distributed meal packs are also made available for individuals engaged in acts of worship such as Tawaf and Sa’i. These mobile packs ensure that those who are in motion or in prayer during the iftar period are not left without sustenance, enabling them to continue their rituals without interruption.
This initiative, which blends religious observance with thoughtful hospitality, highlights the ongoing commitment of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to enhance the spiritual experience of pilgrims and visitors to the Grand Mosque. It also reflects the broader vision of service and care that underpins management of the holy sites, particularly during periods of increased devotion.
