Second Batch of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Guests Arrive in Makkah

The second group of guests participating in the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Program for Umrah and Visit arrived in Makkah on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, to perform Umrah after spending several days in Madinah. The program, implemented by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Call and Guidance, reflects the Kingdom’s enduring commitment to serving pilgrims and fostering global Islamic unity.

Context and Background

The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Program for Umrah and Visit is a longstanding initiative that hosts Muslims from around the world, offering them the opportunity to perform Umrah and visit the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah. This second batch includes 250 pilgrims—men and women—representing 23 countries across Europe and Asia. The guests previously spent days in Madinah, where they prayed at the Prophet’s Mosque and toured historical and cultural sites.

Key Details

The countries represented in this batch are: Bosnia and Herzegovina, Albania, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Serbia, Montenegro, Greece, Bulgaria, Romania, Slovenia, France, the United Kingdom, Spain, Germany, Moldova, Austria, Slovakia, Estonia, Poland, Switzerland, Iraq, Jordan, and Syria. While in Makkah, the guests will participate in a series of educational and cultural meetings, as well as visits to prominent landmarks such as the King Abdulaziz Factory for the Kaaba Covering (Kiswah) and the Revelation Exhibition. These activities aim to deepen their understanding of the religious, historical, and cultural heritage of Makkah.

Implications and Impact

This program underscores Saudi Arabia’s role as a global leader in serving Islam and Muslims. By hosting pilgrims from diverse nations, the Kingdom promotes intercultural dialogue and strengthens ties with the international Muslim community. The initiative also aligns with Saudi Vision 2030’s goals of enhancing the pilgrimage experience and showcasing the Kingdom’s rich Islamic heritage.

Vision 2030 Alignment

The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Program for Umrah and Visit directly supports Vision 2030 by elevating the quality of services provided to pilgrims, enriching their spiritual and cultural journey, and reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s position as a beacon of Islamic hospitality. Through such initiatives, the Kingdom continues to demonstrate its unwavering dedication to the service of the Two Holy Mosques and their visitors.

20 Questions

Q1. What is the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Program for Umrah and Visit?

A1. It is a program by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Call and Guidance that hosts Muslims from various countries to perform Umrah and visit Madinah, promoting Islamic solidarity and cultural exchange.

Q2. How many pilgrims are in the second batch?

A2. The second batch comprises 250 pilgrims, both men and women, selected from 23 countries across Europe and Asia.

Q3. Which countries are represented in this batch?

A3. The batch includes Bosnia and Herzegovina, Albania, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Serbia, Montenegro, Greece, Bulgaria, Romania, Slovenia, France, the United Kingdom, Spain, Germany, Moldova, Austria, Slovakia, Estonia, Poland, Switzerland, Iraq, Jordan, and Syria.

Q4. Where did the pilgrims go before arriving in Makkah?

A4. Before Makkah, they spent several days in Madinah, where they prayed at the Prophet’s Mosque and visited historical and cultural sites.

Q5. What activities are planned for the guests in Makkah?

A5. They will attend educational and cultural meetings and visit landmarks such as the King Abdulaziz Factory for the Kaaba Covering and the Revelation Exhibition.

Q6. What is the significance of visiting the King Abdulaziz Factory?

A6. The factory produces the Kiswah, the cloth that covers the Kaaba, offering guests insight into the craftsmanship and spiritual importance of this sacred tradition.

Q7. What is the Revelation Exhibition?

A7. The Revelation Exhibition is a cultural site that showcases the history of divine revelation and Islamic heritage, providing educational value to visitors.

Q8. How does this program reflect Saudi Arabia’s commitment to Islam?

A8. It demonstrates the Kingdom’s dedication to serving Muslims worldwide, facilitating their pilgrimage, and promoting the true message of Islam.

Q9. What is the role of the Ministry of Islamic Affairs in this program?

A9. The Ministry organizes and implements the program, ensuring that guests receive comprehensive services and enriching experiences throughout their visit.

Q10. How does the program contribute to Vision 2030?

A10. It supports Vision 2030 by enhancing pilgrimage services, boosting cultural exchange, and reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s leadership in the Islamic world.

Q11. What benefits do the pilgrims gain from this program?

A11. Pilgrims deepen their spiritual connection, learn about Islamic history, and return home with positive experiences that foster goodwill toward Saudi Arabia.

Q12. How are the guests selected for the program?

A12. Guests are chosen based on criteria set by the Ministry, often including religious leaders, scholars, and influential community members from various countries.

Q13. What is the duration of the program?

A13. The program typically spans several days, allowing pilgrims to perform Umrah and visit Madinah, with activities tailored to their spiritual and cultural enrichment.

Q14. Does the program include women pilgrims?

A14. Yes, the second batch includes both men and women, reflecting the program’s inclusive approach to serving all Muslims.

Q15. What other landmarks will the guests visit in Makkah?

A15. In addition to the Kiswah factory and Revelation Exhibition, guests may visit other historical sites like the Cave of Hira and the Grand Mosque, enhancing their pilgrimage experience.

Q16. How does this program affect Saudi Arabia’s international relations?

A16. By hosting pilgrims from diverse nations, Saudi Arabia strengthens diplomatic and cultural ties, portraying itself as a compassionate and welcoming leader in the Muslim world.

Q17. What logistical support is provided to the guests?

A17. The Ministry arranges transportation, accommodation, meals, and guided tours, ensuring a comfortable and spiritually fulfilling journey for all participants.

Q18. Are there any costs for the pilgrims?

A18. The program is fully funded by the Saudi government as part of its charitable and religious outreach, so guests do not bear any expenses.

Q19. How does this initiative promote moderation and tolerance?

A19. By bringing together Muslims from various backgrounds, it fosters mutual understanding, moderate thinking, and peaceful coexistence, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s message of tolerance.

Q20. What impact does the program have on the pilgrims’ home communities?

A20. Returning pilgrims often share their positive experiences, which helps build bridges of understanding and appreciation for Saudi Arabia’s role in serving Islam.

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