Yalamlam Meeqaat. (SPA)

The Ministry of Islamic Affairs has recently signed a number of deals with local companies for operation and maintenance of mosques at various meeqat (places for donning ihraam) for pilgrims in preparation for this year’s Haj season.

According to the ministry, the contract with specialized firms also covers supplementary buildings and support services.

Meeqat are places where pilgrims must start their Haj or Umrah journey. They also have to change from their clothes to ihram — two pieces of untailored garments.

Samy Al-Shammari, head of the General Administration for Projects and Maintenance at the ministry, said the agreement will cover Sail Al-Kabeer in Taif; Yalamlam in Leith; Al-Johfah in Rabigh; Taneem Mosque, Al-Khaif; Al-Ber Mosque; Namirah Mosque in Arafat; Meshar Mosque in Muzdalifah; Zhi-Al-Haleefah Mosque; Quba Mosque; the Qiblatain and Al-Khandaq Mosques in Madinah.

Al-Shammari stressed that his office has chosen the best specialized national companies with track records for the highest standards of quality to implement the contracts.

He said his administration is closely following the progress of work for these companies, and the speed of delivery and accuracy to provide all means of comfort to the pilgrims based on the directives of the ministry.