MAKKAH – The Grand Mosque in Makkah has been enhanced with 33,000 premium Saudi-manufactured carpets, meticulously arranged every Friday, during the holy month of Ramadan, and on other significant occasions, as confirmed by the General Authority for the Care of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque.
These high-end carpets are available in two sizes—1.2 x 4 meters and 1.2 x 3 meters—extending collectively over a distance of 200 kilometers. With a thickness of 1.6 cm, they are designed to withstand extensive use while maintaining durability, density, and superior comfort.
Renowned for their exceptional craftsmanship and sustainability, these carpets exemplify the highest standards of quality. Their installation aligns with the directives of the Kingdom’s leadership, which prioritizes the well-being of worshippers at the Two Holy Mosques, ensuring they can perform religious rituals in an environment of ease and tranquility.
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To maintain the pristine condition of these carpets, a dedicated carpet-washing facility oversees their cleaning, sterilization, and perfuming through a systematic five-stage process managed by expert personnel using state-of-the-art equipment.
- Initial Cleaning: Each week, approximately 1,200 carpets are transported from the Grand Mosque to the specialized facility. The process begins with the removal of dust, debris, and stains using an advanced automated cleaning system.
- Washing & Sterilization: The carpets undergo a thorough washing in a large industrial machine equipped with special disinfectants and detergents. This ensures a deep clean without compromising the fabric’s integrity. The rinsing process follows, efficiently removing all soap residues before they are moved to the next stage.
- Drying: The carpets are inserted into specialized drying tubes that extract moisture within a maximum of two minutes, ensuring quick and efficient drying.
- Air Drying: To enhance freshness, the carpets are placed on drying racks in an open-air courtyard, allowing exposure to natural sunlight and fresh air. This stage lasts for an entire day or up to two days during colder seasons.
- Final Touch & Storage: Once dried, the carpets are meticulously swept with advanced cleaning equipment, sterilized, and infused with natural rose water fragrance. Finally, they are stored in the facility’s warehouses before being reinstalled in the Grand Mosque.
This meticulous care and attention to detail reflect the Kingdom’s unwavering commitment to enhancing the experience of pilgrims and worshippers at Islam’s holiest site.