New rule to begin next Hajj season to reduce crowding, disputes, and distractions during worship.

By Sadiq Abdulfatah

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has announced a full ban on taking photos and recording videos inside the Grand Mosque in Makkah and the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah. This ban applies to mobile phones, professional cameras, and all other recording devices. The Ministry said the new rule will begin from the next Hajj season.

The Ministry explained that the ban became necessary because of the behavior of some pilgrims and the problems caused during crowded periods in the Haram. Many people stop to take pictures, which creates delays in prayer lines, causes rush at important worship areas, and invades the personal space of other pilgrims. These situations often lead to arguments or discomfort. For this reason, the ban was introduced to help pilgrims stay focused on their worship.

A ministry official added that the decision was made after receiving concerns from local mosque administrations and international delegations. They all agreed that photography disrupts the atmosphere of worship. The aim is to make the Holy Mosques safer, more orderly, and more peaceful for everyone.

Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam, is the sacred pilgrimage to Makkah that every able Muslim must perform at least once in their lifetime. Its essence is to promote humility, unity, patience, and complete devotion to Allah. The journey reminds pilgrims of equality before God, encourages spiritual cleansing, and strengthens the sense of global Muslim brotherhood.

Source: Daily Ausaf