The government of Saudi Arabia has recently made an announcement that has caught the attention of parents planning to visit the Holy Kaaba’s circumambulating area, known as Mataf. To ensure the safety and comfort of all worshippers, the General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque has implemented a ban on children’s strollers on the ground floor of Mataf.
While this may come as an inconvenience to some parents, it is important to understand the reasoning behind this decision. The area around the Holy Kaaba is known for its high congestion, especially during the holy months of Hajj and Ramadan. With millions of pilgrims expected to visit the Grand Mosque in June for Hajj, the authorities are taking precautionary measures to manage the crowd and ensure a smooth and safe experience for everyone.
However, it is important to note that designated areas within the Grand Mosque, including the upper floors of Mataf, will still permit the use of strollers. This means that parents will still have the convenience of using their strollers in certain areas of the mosque. Additionally, access to Mas’a, the running area between Safa and Marwa, is allowed for strollers through the King Fahd Expansion Area, with a prohibition during overcrowded conditions.
To further enhance the experience of worshippers, the authorities are finalizing arrangements for the upcoming Hajj. An agreement has been signed to explore the possibility of dividing Masjid al-Haram into coded zones, which will facilitate worshippers’ access and resource distribution. This innovative approach will not only streamline the movement of pilgrims but also ensure that everyone has equal access to the facilities and services provided.
It is worth mentioning that last year, the kingdom welcomed over 2 million pilgrims for Hajj and more than 13 million Umrah pilgrims. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Saudi government successfully lifted social distancing protocols and ensured the safety of all worshippers. This year, with the gradual easing of restrictions, the authorities are optimistic about hosting a significant number of pilgrims once again.
While the ban on children’s strollers may seem like a small inconvenience, it is a necessary step to manage the congestion and ensure the safety of all worshippers. Parents visiting the Grand Mosque with young children are advised to plan accordingly and make use of the designated areas where strollers are still permitted.
In conclusion, the recent ban on children’s strollers on the ground floor of Mataf, the Holy Kaaba’s circumambulating area, is a precautionary measure implemented by the Saudi government to manage the high congestion in the Grand Mosque. By exploring innovative approaches such as dividing the mosque into coded zones, the authorities are striving to enhance the overall experience of worshippers. Parents need to be aware of these changes and plan their visits accordingly, ensuring a smooth and safe journey for themselves and their children.