The government of Saudi Arabia has made official sanction obligatory for non-Saudi pilgrims to undertake Itikaf in Ramadan 2025. The announcement, made by the Minister of Labour, reflects the efforts of the kingdom to oversee religious congregations in mosques, especially the Grand Mosque in Makkah and the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah.
Itikaf, a spiritual retreat held at the last ten days of Ramadan, attracts thousands of devotees seeking solitude in mosques for prayers and meditation. The latest order seeks to ensure better management, security, and crowd control, enabling authorities to monitor the flow of worshippers while ensuring an orderly atmosphere in the mosques.
Officials clarified that non-Saudi residents and visitors wishing to practice Itikaf must obtain the required approvals from authorized websites. Whether the policy is to be implemented remains subject to consideration and negotiation, implying possible modifications in light of logistical implications and opinions from the public.
The step fits with Saudi Arabia’s wider bid to upgrade pilgrimage experiences, develop facilities, and rationalize religious practice across the nation. Worshippers were asked to be compliant and abreast of procedures to avoid glitches during the month of worship.
