Hajj 2024: Pilgrims are Not Allowed to Do These Things Around Nabawi Mosque

TIMESINDONESIA, MADINAH – When visiting the sacred Nabawi Mosque in Medina, pilgrims must adhere to specific guidelines to ensure a respectful and smooth experience for all. Several activities are explicitly prohibited by Saudi authorities to maintain order and the sanctity of the holy site.

Displaying Banners and Flags

Pilgrims are not allowed to display banners, personal items, or flags that indicate personal or group identity both inside and outside the mosque complex. This includes the prohibition of national flags, such as the Indonesian Merah Putih. As stated by Widi Dwinanda during a press conference at the Hajj Dormitory in Pondok Gede, Jakarta, on Friday, May 17, 2024, "Saudi authorities strictly prohibit the display of banners and flags, including the Merah Putih flag."

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Smoking Restrictions

Another critical restriction is the prohibition of smoking within the mosque area and in designated non-smoking zones. Widi emphasized the severe consequences of violating this rule: "Smoking in prohibited areas can lead to serious issues for pilgrims, including hefty fines imposed by the authorities." This regulation aims to preserve the cleanliness and health standards of the mosque environment.

Limiting Group Gatherings

Pilgrims are also advised against gathering in groups of more than five people in the vicinity of Nabawi Mosque and Masjidil Haram. Widi explained that mosque officials would disperse crowds that obstruct the movement of other pilgrims. "Saudi enforces strict rules on pilgrims gathering in groups larger than five for extended periods," he noted. This measure is implemented to facilitate the smooth flow of pilgrims and prevent congestion in these highly frequented areas.

Taking Lost and Found Items

Another important rule for Indonesian pilgrims is to never pick up items found lying around in the mosque or its surroundings. Although the intention might be to safeguard the item, it can be misinterpreted as theft. Hundreds of CCTV cameras inside and outside the mosque can capture the movements of suspected individuals. If a valuable item is found, it is best to contact the nearest official who will secure it, ensuring the pilgrim's safety.

Long-Duration Video Recording

While recording video or audio is generally allowed by Saudi authorities, prolonged and static recordings can arouse suspicion, especially if they involve supportive equipment such as tripods, lights, special microphones, and audio-video cables. Saudi officials patrol both directly and via CCTV. If caught violating this rule, the camera and recording equipment may be confiscated, and the recordings deleted.

Littering

The mosque management is very strict about maintaining the cleanliness of the area. Pilgrims should never carelessly dispose of waste such as sandal plastic, drink bottles, food wrappers, and so on. Keeping the mosque and its surroundings clean is a shared responsibility and an important aspect of respecting this holy site.

By following these regulations, pilgrims contribute to a harmonious and respectful environment at one of Islam's most revered sites. Adhering to these guidelines ensures that every pilgrim can have a meaningful and unobstructed experience during their visit.

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