Islamic Ministry unites volunteers to serve pilgrims

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Almost 5,000 people are set to volunteer for programs launched by the Makkah arm of the Saudi Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance. (SPA)
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Almost 5,000 people are set to volunteer for programs launched by the Makkah arm of the Saudi Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance. (SPA)
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Updated 29 May 2024
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Islamic Ministry unites volunteers to serve pilgrims

  • The initiative is part of the ministry’s ongoing efforts to promote a culture of volunteering within communities

MAKKAH: Almost 5,000 people are set to volunteer for programs launched by the Makkah arm of the Saudi Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Wednesday.

The branch has launched 247 opportunities via its volunteering platform to coincide with the start of the Hajj season. These include distributing more than 235,000 water bottles at 3,850 mosques, providing umbrellas to pilgrims for protection against the sun, distributing booklets and providing meals.

The initiative is part of the ministry’s ongoing efforts to promote a culture of volunteering within communities.

Earlier, the Presidency of Religious Affairs at the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque launched its operational plan for Hajj, promoting voluntary and humanitarian work.

It recognizes the Two Holy Mosques as attractive environments for such efforts, based on religious and Saudi values that highlight the importance of generosity and hospitality.


Citrus festival highlights AlUla’s heritage, economy

Updated 10 January 2026
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Citrus festival highlights AlUla’s heritage, economy

  • The rise in visitor numbers reflects the festival’s prominence as a major agricultural and community event. It runs until Jan. 16

ALULA: The AlUla Citrus Festival has seen a remarkable turnout of residents and visitors as it has coincided with the mid-year school break, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The festival is being held at the farmers’ market in the cultural oasis, amid an environment that blends stunning natural beauty with the governorate's rich agricultural heritage.

The rise in visitor numbers reflects the festival’s prominence as a major agricultural and community event. It runs until Jan. 16.

It allows visitors to explore local products and purchase citrus fruits directly from farmers, highlighting the deep connection between the people, their land, and agricultural legacy.

The festival showcases a diverse selection of AlUla’s finest citrus fruits, alongside platforms for local producers, the SPA added.

The event also features interactive family-friendly activities and live cooking demonstrations.

It contributes to revitalizing agricultural economic activity and reinforces agricultural seasons as a pillar of sustainable development in the governorate.

The AlUla Citrus Festival is a key social and economic event and gives local farmers a vital platform to showcase and sell their produce, supporting the agricultural economy of a governorate home to nearly 5,000 productive farms.