Saudi Arabia Restricts Circumambulation Courtyard at Grand Mosque for Umrah Pilgrims Only

The General Authority for Care of the Two Holy Mosques, overseeing Mecca’s Grand Mosque, has designated a specific circumambulation courtyard at the sacred site exclusively for Muslims performing Umrah, or minor pilgrimage. This measure aims to ensure the safety and convenience of pilgrims during their religious rites.

The state agency encourages other worshippers to utilize designated prayer areas within the expansive mosque, emphasizing the significance of facing the Holy Kaaba in their prayers.

This decision coincides with the approach of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month, during which the Umrah season typically reaches its peak. Ramadan is anticipated to commence on March 11 this year.

Umrah serves as an alternative pilgrimage for Muslims who are unable to undertake the annual Hajj pilgrimage due to physical or financial constraints. In recent months, Saudi Arabia has introduced various enhancements to facilitate Umrah for overseas Muslims.

These enhancements include extending the Umrah visa duration from 30 to 90 days, permitting entry through all transportation outlets, and abolishing the requirement for female pilgrims to be accompanied by male guardians. Additionally, Saudi authorities have expanded Umrah eligibility to include expatriates residing in Gulf Cooperation Council countries, regardless of their profession, who can now apply for tourist visas to perform Umrah.