Makkah, September 11, 2026 — The third group of beneficiaries under the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Program for Umrah and Visit performed Friday prayer at the Grand Mosque in Makkah, joining a vast congregation in one of Islam’s holiest sites. The guests listened to the Friday sermon delivered by Grand Mosque Imam Sheikh Maher Al-Muaiqly, who highlighted the importance of unity and peace among Muslims. The program, implemented by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, reflects Saudi Arabia’s unwavering commitment to serving pilgrims and visitors from around the world.
Context and Background
The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Program for Umrah and Visit is a royal initiative that hosts Muslims from various countries to perform Umrah and visit the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah. This third cohort comprises 250 pilgrims from 23 African nations, who are provided with comprehensive logistical and spiritual support. The program is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader efforts to facilitate religious tourism and foster Islamic solidarity.
Key Details
During the Friday prayer, the guests expressed deep appreciation to Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, for their continuous service to the global Muslim community. The Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance organizes the program, ensuring that pilgrims receive integrated organizational and care services throughout their journey.
Implications and Impact
This initiative strengthens Saudi Arabia’s role as a global leader in serving Islam and Muslims. By hosting pilgrims from African nations, the Kingdom promotes cultural exchange and religious diplomacy, reinforcing ties with the continent. The program also supports the local economy and showcases Saudi Arabia’s logistical capabilities in managing large-scale religious events.
Vision 2030 Alignment
This program aligns with Vision 2030, which aims to enhance the Kingdom’s capacity to host increasing numbers of Umrah performers and visitors. By improving infrastructure and services for pilgrims, Saudi Arabia seeks to provide a transformative and enriching experience, further solidifying its position as the heart of the Islamic world.
20 Questions
Q1. What is the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Program for Umrah and Visit?
A1. It is a royal initiative that hosts Muslims from around the world to perform Umrah and visit the Prophet’s Mosque, providing comprehensive logistical and spiritual support.
Q2. Which group performed Friday prayer at the Grand Mosque recently?
A2. The third group of beneficiaries under the program performed Friday prayer at the Grand Mosque in Makkah on September 11, 2026.
Q3. Who delivered the Friday sermon at the Grand Mosque?
A3. Grand Mosque Imam Sheikh Maher Al-Muaiqly delivered the sermon, emphasizing unity and peace among Muslims.
Q4. How many pilgrims are in this cohort?
A4. The cohort comprises 250 pilgrims from 23 African nations.
Q5. Which ministry implements this program?
A5. The Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance implements the program.
Q6. What did the guests express to the Saudi leadership?
A6. They expressed appreciation to King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for their continuous service to the global Muslim community.
Q7. What services are provided to the pilgrims?
A7. Pilgrims receive integrated organizational and care services, including logistics, accommodation, and spiritual guidance.
Q8. How does this program benefit Saudi Arabia?
A8. It strengthens Saudi Arabia’s role as a global leader in serving Islam, promotes religious diplomacy, and supports the local economy.
Q9. Which countries are represented in this cohort?
A9. The pilgrims come from 23 African nations, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s outreach to the continent.
Q10. What is the significance of performing Friday prayer at the Grand Mosque?
A10. It is a deeply spiritual experience for pilgrims, allowing them to join a vast congregation in one of Islam’s holiest sites.
Q11. How does the program align with Vision 2030?
A11. It aligns with Vision 2030 by enhancing the Kingdom’s capacity to host more Umrah performers and visitors, improving services and infrastructure.
Q12. What is the role of the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance?
A12. The ministry organizes and oversees the program, ensuring pilgrims receive the best possible care and support.
Q13. When did the third group perform the Friday prayer?
A13. The prayer took place on September 11, 2026, at the Grand Mosque in Makkah.
Q14. What did Imam Sheikh Maher Al-Muaiqly emphasize in his sermon?
A14. He emphasized the importance of unity, peace, and solidarity among Muslims worldwide.
Q15. How many groups have participated in this program so far?
A15. This is the third group, indicating multiple cohorts have benefited from the initiative.
Q16. What is the broader goal of this program?
A16. The broader goal is to facilitate Umrah and visit rituals for Muslims worldwide and to promote Islamic brotherhood.
Q17. How does the program support cultural exchange?
A17. By bringing together pilgrims from diverse African nations, it fosters cultural exchange and understanding among Muslims.
Q18. What economic impact does the program have?
A18. It boosts local businesses in Makkah and Madinah, supporting the hospitality, retail, and transportation sectors.
Q19. How does Saudi Arabia ensure the safety of pilgrims?
A19. The Kingdom employs advanced crowd management, healthcare services, and security measures to ensure pilgrims’ safety and comfort.
Q20. What message does this program send to the world?
A20. It sends a message of Saudi Arabia’s dedication to serving Islam and Muslims, and its commitment to peace and unity.
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