RIYADH: A team of more than 2,000 cleaners are working around the clock over four different shifts to keep the grand Mosque in Makkah spotless during Ramadan.
The workers manage to clean the entire holy mosque in just 45 minutes and scrubbing the white marble courtyard surrounding the Kaaba takes half an hour. Cleaning does not hinder the large amount of worshippers and visitors to the mosque, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Thirty special electric vehicles, sixty-seven machines and 400 liters of water are used to clean the courtyard surrounding the Kaaba.
A number of pilgrims and visitors to the mosque praised the efficiency of the cleaning services. Mohammed Asif, from Bangladesh, said that he was very happy with the excellent services provided and that the level of cleanliness was very high.
He told SPA he was impressed with the organised and fast way the floors of the mosque were cleaned, and the use of large amounts of rose and oud fragrance to give the mosque a pleasant smell.
Small army of workers keep Makkah’s Grand Mosque courtyard clean during Ramadan
Small army of workers keep Makkah’s Grand Mosque courtyard clean during Ramadan
India Embassy, consulate celebrate Republic Day
- Flag hoisting, cultural performances, and a reception highlight India–Saudi friendship and growing partnership
JEDDAH: The 77th Republic Day of India was celebrated in Riyadh and Jeddah on Monday.
Th events brought together the Indian community, Saudi dignitaries, and members of the diplomatic corps, highlighting the friendship between India and Saudi Arabia.
The celebrations in Riyadh began with Ambassador Dr. Suhel Ajaz Khan unfurling the tricolour, the singing of the national anthem, and floral tributes at Mahatma Gandhi’s bust.
Khan read the Indian president’s message to the nation and Indians worldwide, followed by cultural performances by schoolchildren and the Indian community.
The performances included special features marking the 150th anniversary of India’s national song, Vande Mataram.
A photo booth highlighting the song’s significance was set up, and later, the ambassador interacted with members of the Indian diaspora and local journalists.
In Jeddah, the celebrations began in the morning with the unfurling of the Indian national flag at the Consulate General of India.
Consul General Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri read out a message from the president of India, acknowledging the dedication of the Indian diaspora in strengthening ties between the two nations.
Patriotic performances by students from the International Indian School added a festive touch, and the consul general addressed the performers while interacting with community members.
The celebrations continued in the evening with a reception at Al-Sohba Hall, Park Hyatt, attended by consuls general from different countries, along with prominent Saudi and Indian dignitaries.
Fareed bin Saad Al-Shehri, director-general of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the chief guest, said he always feels delighted at such events, which showcase the blending of Saudi and Indian cultures.
The guest of honor was Capt. Ali Salem Al-Mehwari, director-general of the Jeddah Islamic Port.
Speaking to Arab News, the Indian consul general said the reception reflects the strength of India–Saudi Arabia relations and underscores the complementary visions of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and India’s Vision 2047.
“Both countries are working toward inclusive growth, economic diversification, and long-term partnership,” he added.
Suri said: “India and Saudi Arabia share a robust strategic partnership that has strengthened in recent years across trade, investment, energy, education, and cultural exchange.
“Educational and professional cooperation is expanding, people-to-people ties are deepening, and cultural interactions continue to thrive. This partnership is creating long-term opportunities for mutual growth and shared prosperity.”
