In a renewed effort to ensure smooth movement and ease of performing rituals within the sacred premises of the Two Holy Mosques, the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has issued an important advisory to all pilgrims, urging them to strictly adhere to established guidelines during their pilgrimage.
According to a public awareness notice made available by the Pilgrims Awareness Center and shared via official platforms of the Ministry, pilgrims — respectfully addressed as “Guests of Allah” — are reminded that their cooperation is essential in maintaining order, safety, and uninterrupted flow of human traffic in the holy sites, particularly during peak hours.
The advisory encourages worshippers to avoid specific behaviours that hinder the smooth flow of pilgrims around the Kaabah and throughout the Haram areas. These include stopping unnecessarily in the Mataf (the circumambulation area around the Kaabah), which disrupts the Tawaf and poses safety risks. The Ministry further discourages praying in entry pathways, a common practice that blocks access points and endangers both the individual and others, especially in emergencies.
In addition, pilgrims are strictly advised against walking in the opposite direction of Tawaf, as this not only interferes with the sacred ritual but also causes confusion and congestion. The use of luggage or personal items that obstruct movement in crowded areas has also been highlighted as a major contributor to delays and discomfort during rituals.
This campaign by the Saudi authorities is part of a broader initiative to enhance the spiritual experience of pilgrims through improved crowd management, safety protocols, and awareness creation. It aligns with the Kingdom’s ongoing investment in infrastructure and logistics within Makkah and Madinah aimed at ensuring that millions of pilgrims who visit each year are able to carry out their religious rites with dignity and peace of mind.
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has continued to emphasise that successful pilgrimage is not just a matter of individual devotion but also collective responsibility, urging all pilgrims to be mindful of others and uphold the values of discipline, patience, and respect for guidelines while in the sacred precincts.
