As the Grand Mosque in Mecca, Islam’s holiest site, sees an influx of Muslims from both within and outside Saudi Arabia for Umrah, authorities are reiterating rules regarding photography.
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has encouraged worshippers to take photos quickly and avoid causing disruptions to others. Many pilgrims wish to capture their experience at this sacred site, home to the Holy Kaaba, by taking photos or videos on their mobile devices to cherish as lasting memories.
In outlining the guidelines, the ministry advised worshippers to refrain from photographing those engaged in prayer or other pilgrims without their consent. They are also urged not to linger too long while taking pictures to ensure the flow of worshippers remains uninterrupted.
The current Umrah season, which is available year-round, began in late June following the annual Hajj pilgrimage, which attracted around 1.8 million Muslims from around the world. Last year, approximately 13.5 million individuals performed Umrah, and the kingdom aims to welcome 15 million pilgrims next year.
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In recent months, Saudi Arabia, the birthplace of Islam, has introduced several conveniences for those wishing to undertake Umrah. The Umrah visa has been extended from 30 to 90 days, allowing entry through various land, air, and sea points, with departures possible from any airport. Additionally, women pilgrims are no longer required to be accompanied by male guardians.
Muslims with various types of entry visas, including personal, visit, and tourism visas, can also perform Umrah and visit Al Rawda Al Sharifa, the resting place of the Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) at the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina, after obtaining an e-appointment.
