Saudi Arabia outlines steps to improve comfort for Hajj pilgrims

The Zamzam Water Department is providing pilgrims cold Zamzam water around the clock. (SPA)
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Updated 29 May 2024
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Saudi Arabia outlines steps to improve comfort for Hajj pilgrims

  • Sun shields, marble flooring, mist fans among measures to protect worshippers from intense heat 

RIYADH: Authorities in Saudi Arabia have outlined how they are making Hajj as comfortable as possible for pilgrims arriving in Saudi Arabia.
The Saudi Press Agency documented the arrival of pilgrims from various nationalities at the Prophet’s Mosque, highlighting the extensive care provided by the the General Authority for the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque.
The measures include the provision of cold Zamzam water around the clock.
Managed by the Zamzam Water Department, the operation involves transporting 300 tons of Zamzam water daily from its source in Makkah to the Prophet’s Mosque.
The water undergoes rigorous testing in laboratories and is distributed to thousands of coolers placed throughout the mosque, SPA reported.
The Prophet’s Mosque courtyards are also equipped with 250 large sun shields, which are 15 meters high and weigh 40 tons each, to provide shade and protection for up to 228,000 worshippers.
They feature intricate gold-plated copper designs and are equipped with a water drainage system. To combat the intense heat, 436 mist fans have been installed, which mix cold air with water mist to create a cooler environment for pilgrims.
The floor of the mosque and its courtyards is covered with a rare type of white marble imported specifically for the Two Holy Mosques.

The flooring reflects sunlight and retains moisture, enhancing the comfort of worshippers. The marble pieces are precisely installed facing the Qibla, and are carefully maintained and reinstalled during expansion works.
 


Klija Festival in Buraidah empowers small businesses

Updated 24 January 2026
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Klija Festival in Buraidah empowers small businesses

  • Half a million attend 15-day celebration of heritage; event creates 1,500 seasonal jobs

RIYADH: The 17th Klija Festival in Buraidah drew more than half a million visitors during its 15-day run, celebrating the region’s heritage and entrepreneurial spirit.

Organized by the Qassim Chamber of Commerce, the event highlighted small businesses, providing a platform for entrepreneurs to showcase local products.

More than 340 sales outlets, marketing corners and points of sale welcomed attendees, while the festival provided 1,500 seasonal job opportunities, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The small business pavilions featured families in the cottage industry, artisans and startups presenting traditional foods, and handicrafts and heritage items that reflect the region’s identity.

Participants said that the festival was a key marketing platform, boosting sales, increasing brand awareness, facilitating knowledge exchange and fostering connections with organizations supporting SMEs.

Mohammed Al-Hanaya, Qassim Chamber secretary-general and festival supervisor, said that the event brought together families, artisans, SMEs, companies and institutions, stimulating commercial activity, opening direct marketing channels and enhancing economic returns.

He added that the festival provided seasonal jobs for more than 1,500 young men and women across operations, marketing and services, supporting the labor market, empowering national talent, and connecting youth to the events and creative economy.

Klija, a traditional cookie made from wheat flour, dates or sugar, date syrup and natural ingredients such as cardamom and lemon, is a rich source of energy, carbohydrates, dietary fiber and natural proteins.

A cultural icon rooted in Qassim’s traditions, the cookie has gained international exposure through the festival, expanding the availability of packaged products.

Starting next year, the festival will be renamed the International Klija Festival, a rebranding approved by Qassim Gov. Prince Faisal bin Mishaal, who described it as a “successful model for turning local initiatives into global economic engines.”

This year’s festival, held at the King Khalid Cultural Center, included international participants from Egypt, Turkiye and Morocco, marking its evolution into a cross-cultural platform.