Mid-Year School Break Drives Surge in Pilgrims to Mecca's Grand Mosque
The 10-day break, which concludes on January 12, traditionally sees both citizens and expatriates traveling to Islam's holiest site to perform the Umrah pilgrimage and engage in worship.
According to Saudi state television Al Ekhbariya, the ongoing school holiday has noticeably boosted the number of visitors inside the Grand Mosque and its surrounding courtyards.
Hotels in Mecca's central area are reportedly operating at near-full capacity to accommodate the influx of pilgrims.
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In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the General Authority for Care of the Two Holy Mosques pointed to the importance of adhering to guidelines, advising visitors to "avoid crowding with others and give priority to the elderly and people with disabilities."
The Umrah pilgrimage involves two primary rituals: Tawaf, where pilgrims circle the Holy Kaaba seven times, and Sa’i, which entails walking back and forth between the hills of Safa and Marwah.
Saudi authorities have also urged visitors to plan their worship during less crowded hours to maintain a calm and serene atmosphere at the sacred site.
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The current Umrah season, which began in late June following the conclusion of the annual Hajj pilgrimage, allows Muslims to undertake the pilgrimage throughout the year.
Source: Agencies
