MAKKAH — Over three million worshipers converged at the Grand Mosque in Makkah and the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah on Wednesday night to perform Isha, Taraweeh, and Qiyamullail prayers on the 27th night of Ramadan. This significant night, widely regarded as Laylatul Qadr—the Night of Power—saw an overwhelming spiritual atmosphere as the faithful engaged in heartfelt supplications, seeking divine blessings and forgiveness.
The Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque were filled to capacity, with worshippers spilling into the surrounding courtyards and streets of the central Haram areas. This unparalleled scene of devotion reflected the profound spiritual significance of Laylatul Qadr, the night in which the Holy Qur’an was revealed, holding a virtue greater than a thousand months.
Spiritual Devotion Under Heavy Rainfall
The Grand Mosque experienced an extraordinary moment as worshippers offered their prayers amidst heavy rainfall. Led by Sheikh Abdurahman Al-Sudais, head of the General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques, the special supplication following Taraweeh and Qiyamullail was deeply moving. The tears of worshippers blended with the rain, creating a powerful scene of faith and devotion as believers raised their hands in prayer, seeking mercy and forgiveness from Almighty Allah.
Seamless Crowd Management and Enhanced Services
To ensure a smooth and comfortable experience for the millions in attendance, the General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques implemented a meticulous operational plan. With the coordination of security forces and relevant agencies, the authority mobilized extensive human and mechanical resources to manage the massive influx of worshippers.
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From early morning, a steady stream of Umrah pilgrims and worshippers arrived at the Grand Mosque. The mosque’s various sections—including its floors, rooftops, courtyards, basement, and the Third Saudi Expansion—were fully occupied. Copies of the Holy Qur’an in multiple languages were made available, and enhanced cleaning efforts ensured a pristine environment.
Additionally, the mosque’s loudspeakers, ventilation systems, and air-conditioning were optimized for the comfort of attendees. Various modes of transportation, including golf carts and electric carts, were efficiently managed through the “Tanaqol” app to facilitate movement within the premises.
Medical and Humanitarian Support for Pilgrims
The Makkah region’s health department played a crucial role by deploying medical teams and establishing healthcare centers within the Grand Mosque and its courtyards. These facilities provided essential medical assistance to pilgrims in need, ensuring their well-being during the night’s worship activities.
Furthermore, over 400 scouts from the Saudi Arabian Boy Scouts Association actively participated in crowd management. In collaboration with security agencies, the scouts guided lost individuals, managed congested areas, and assisted pilgrims in reaching their destinations. They also provided emergency support at hospitals and health centers, reinforcing the healthcare system’s ability to cater to the needs of visitors.
Prophet’s Mosque: An Atmosphere of Tranquility and Devotion
In Madinah, the Prophet’s Mosque saw thousands of worshippers gathering from early morning to engage in prayers and supplications. Authorities ensured that all necessary arrangements were in place to maintain the safety, comfort, and well-being of the worshippers.
Special measures were taken, including the preparation of prayer areas with carpets, rigorous cleaning and fumigation, provision of Zamzam water, and environmental protection services. Additionally, trolleys and an advanced monitoring system were employed to enhance visitor satisfaction and improve the overall experience.
The extraordinary devotion witnessed on this sacred night highlighted the deep spiritual connection of millions of Muslims who gathered in the Two Holy Mosques. As the night concluded, worshippers left with a sense of fulfillment, having immersed themselves in the blessings and divine mercy of Laylatul Qadr.