TEHRAN (IQNA) – Saudi Arabia authorities have conducted field surveys to determine the average time needed to perform Umrah rituals at the Grand Mosque of Mecca.
The surveys were carried out by the Statistics and Information Centre affiliated to the General Presidency for Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques to make use of the findings in providing services to worshippers and work out future plans, the Saudi news agency SPA reported.
The main rituals of Umrah are circling the Holy Kaaba for seven times or Tawaf, and likewise walking back and forth between the hills of Safa and Marwah, a rite known as Sa’i, in the Grand Mosque.
“The statistical surveys for pilgrims measure the time taken between moving from Tawaf to Sa’i, the carts used during both rites, and other data necessary for decision-makers to develop the field and administrative work system in the Grand Mosque,” said the centre’s head Mohammed bin Saad.
The surveys were conducted ahead of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, which is usually the peak season for Umrah. Ramadan is due to begin this year late next month.
Saudi Arabia has in recent months unveiled a host of facilities for Muslims wishing to come to the country to undertake Umrah.
Muslims holding different types of entry visas such as the personal, visit and tourism visas are allowed to undertake Umrah and visit Al Rawda Al Sharifa, where the tomb of the Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) is located at the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina after booking an e-appointment.
Saudi authorities have also extended the Umrah visa from 30 days to 90 and allowed holders to enter the kingdom via all land, air and sea outlets.
(gulfnews.com)
