Madinah, January 26, 2025 – Today, the third group of participants in the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Program for Umrah and Visitation, organized by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah, and Guidance, embarked on a profound journey through several of Madinah’s most significant religious and historical landmarks. This particular group consists of 250 male and female pilgrims from 18 African countries, who are part of a larger initiative designed to promote cross-cultural understanding and enrich their religious experiences.
As part of their visit, the group toured the renowned Mount Uhud, a site of immense historical importance due to the Battle of Uhud, and visited the Martyrs’ Cemetery, where they paid their respects to the individuals who made the ultimate sacrifice in the defense of Islam. One of the most enriching parts of their trip was the visit to the Quba Mosque, where the pilgrims had the opportunity to perform prayers. The group also received a detailed briefing on the mosque's ongoing expansion and renovation projects, which are part of the ambitious initiatives led by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. These efforts aim to significantly enhance the mosque’s capacity and improve the services offered to the millions of worshippers who visit each year.
The Quba Mosque, widely regarded as the first mosque built after the Prophet Muhammad’s migration to Madinah, holds great religious and historical significance. The pilgrims were educated about its legacy and role in the early days of Islam, deepening their understanding of the mosque's importance as they prayed and reflected on its rich history.
This group is part of a broader initiative to host 1,000 pilgrims from 66 countries in the year 1446 AH. Following their visit to Madinah, the guests will continue their journey to Makkah to perform the sacred rituals of Umrah, solidifying the program’s goal of offering a comprehensive, spiritually enriching experience for Muslims worldwide. The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Program continues to support Saudi Arabia’s commitment to serving the global Muslim community, particularly through efforts that deepen understanding and create lasting connections among diverse groups.