A new service for Hajj and Umrah Tour pilgrims launched at the Makkah Grand Mosque.

They often pour their life savings into completing the fifth pillar of Islam. Many bring their children, trying to train the little minds to follow the right path of Islam from a very young age. While others don't have any options.

Thousands of pilgrims pack the holy site at a single time; this adds an extra layer of challenge for the parents. It also becomes challenging for scouts and security on the ground to create a comfortable environment for children.

We spoke to the 20-year veteran of the travel industry, Mr. Mouazam Bakhla, Bakhla Tours and Travel Pvt. Ltd., one of the Titans in this highly specialised industry.

Mouazam Bakhla, son of the founder of Bakhla Tours and Travels (since 1988) who has been organising Hajj and Umrah Tour Packages regularly, said: "We do not recommend parents bring their children with them for pilgrimages, especially during high seasons. Many times with Economy Packages, the hotels are at a walking distance of about 250 mts, which could be difficult with a toddler or a child in hand. Also, it creates a lot of distractions for the parents during pilgrimage rituals and discomfort especially while travelling to the Meeqat and back with a child while wearing an Ihram.

If possible, parents should leave their children with a trusted family member and go for a short Hajj or 15-day Umrah package so that they can be back with their children in a short duration of time". He added, "But to simplify the holy trip for parents with children, a nursery named "Child Care Center" in the Grand Mosque has opened within the mosque's courtyard.

It is one of many initiatives launched by the Saudi authorities to improve the quality of services offered to Hajj and Umrah pilgrims. The authorities have also introduced smart technologies such as electronic bracelets, and drones. Providing electric vehicles and wheelchairs, offering free Wi-Fi and apps, to facilitate the movement, guidance, and security of the pilgrims."

Mr. Bakhla also praised the changes in Saudi Arabia's Tourism stating: "Day by day, Saudi Arabia is emerging as the most advanced and travel-friendly place on earth. It is not only a beautiful place, along with being highly prestigious due to the Holy Sites, but also a place where you can experience the rich culture, history, and cuisine of the Arab world. Whether you wants to explore the ancient ruins of Madain Saleh, enjoy the stunning views of the Red Sea coast, witness the modern marvels of Riyadh and Jeddah, or visit the country for your Hajj and Umrah tours, Saudi Arabia has something for every age."

The Royal Commission for the Holy City of Makkah and the Holy Sites, through its Development Committee of the Two Holy Mosques, launched this initiative "Child Care Center" with funding from the General Authority for Awqaf and contributions from all government and security sectors operating in the Grand Mosque.

It is the first daycare centre of its kind which offers services in Haram Shareef itself. It aims to create ease and comfort for the parents and enhance their spiritual experience by providing them with a safe place to leave their children. They offer learning activities, stories, educational toys, books, and games, etc. so the child may be happily and responsibly engaged while their parents complete their prayers and rituals.

It is located on the ground floor of King Fahd Gate No. 1, near Al-Safa Gate. The center can accommodate up to 100 or 200 children at a time, ranging in age from one month to six years old. The children are divided age-wise into infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and kindergarteners.

Staffed with various modern facilities and qualified people, the centre has a lot to offer. There are female teachers and nurses who provide educational and entertaining activities along with health care. The center also has a medical team, a medical clinic, and a security system to ensure the safety and well-being of the children. They also have a prayer room, a library, a play area, and a cafeteria. The children are offered snacks, drinks, and gifts during their stay.

The parents are required to provide:

• Identity Proof
• Contact information
• Vaccination records for their children.

The centre follows strict health and safety protocols to provide better care for the children. They are also screened for temperature and symptoms before entering. The center is sanitised regularly and equipped with air purifiers and ventilation systems.

Mr. Bakhla further added, "We recommend this child care centre to all our pilgrims who cannot leave their kids behind for any reason. We are receiving immensely positive feedback from both parents and children about the Child Care Center. Many of our Hajjis, after using its services, expressed gratitude and appreciation for the initiative that the government has taken to relieve them of worrying about their children while performing their religious duties. Children enjoy the time spent there while making new friends, learning new things, and rarely want to leave when the time is up, which shows how much the children enjoy their time there."

The Child Care Center is a great example of how Saudi Arabia is striving to make pilgrimages more accessible, comfortable, and enjoyable for all Muslims around the world. The daycare center is part of a series of projects and services that the Saudi authorities have implemented to improve the facilities and infrastructure, which includes expanding the mosque's capacity.