Saudi Arabia Bans Selfies in Haram in Makkah & Masjid-Un-Nabawi

Indonesia’s Jakarta Post reports that visitors to the Haram in Makkah and Masjid-un-Nabawi (Prophet's Mosque) will be prohibited from taking photographs or videos at the two holy sites.

Saudi authorities say the ban will prevent unnecessary disturbances for those who wish to worship without distractions.

The Jakarta Post also reports that security guards have been instructed to “confiscate the photos and the camera if needed.

With the advent and advancement of camera smartphones in recent years, many pilgrims to both holy sites have posted pictures on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter which shows their favourite scenes including tawaaf (circumambulation) around the Kaaba, trying to kiss Hajre Aswad (the black stone) or standing near the green dome of the Prophet’s (PBUH) masjid.

Several scholars have spoken out against "selfie fever" as "touristy behaviour".

Famous scholar Sheikh Abdul Razzaq Al-Badr warned against taking photos during Haj, saying: “When the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) reached the Miqaat he would say: ‘0 Allah make this a Hajj without riya (showing off) and without trying to be heard of.

Source: Radio Islam

Sara Haba First Lady To Reach Makkah on Bicycle

A Tunisian female, Sara Haba, recently formed a record of the first cyclist to reach Makkah using a bicycle.

In the past, only three Muslims, having the urge of visiting Makkah, opted bicycles, cycles, their animals or walked through all the way towards Makkah

Some of them selected these mediums as they are cost savvy when compared to the cost of travelling through air. Others wanted to make and feel their efforts they would do for Allah (SWT). Yet, we were observing only “men” in such decisions.

Now this year, we woman appeared and become the first lady to reach Makkah by using bicycle, the nontraditional method of transportation.

She completed her journey in 53 days. She documented herself about her traveling and became famous. She emphasized on #CyclingToMakkah hashtag for her posts. She opted for the deserts of Sudan and Egypt as her travel route.

She further stated that she formed her cycle e Merzouga which means “grace with blessing” in Maghrebi Arabic. She also shared on her Instagram that she had a fear to stop while travelling. She wasn’t aware of how much her physical health would support her on fulfilling her wish. She just hoped that her physical health would accept and support her wish.

As she was alone, she also had a fear of getting stopped from entering the Holy Place of Makkah. However, she didn’t focus on her fears and continued to paddle and crossed her path.

The brave and young woman, Sara Haba reached Makkah and throughout her path, she received immense prayers and blessings. She also collected thousands of messages requesting her to pray for them at the Holy Place, Makkah.

This is indeed a great example of women empowerment. 

Source: The Islamic information 

BREAKING: Sheikh Abdul Rehman Al Sudais Reappointed President General of the Two Holy Mosques

Sheikh Abdul Rehman Al Sudais has been re-appointed as President of the General Presidency for the affairs of the Holy Mosques for a period of 4 years by Royal Order issued by The Custodian of The Two Holy Mosques King Salman.

Source: Haramain Sharifain

Ghana Hajj 2020: Ghana’s National Hajj Board Sign MOU with Saudi Arabia

The Head of Ghana’s National Hajj Council, Sheikh Ibrahim Cudjoe Quaye has signed Hajj 2020 MOU with officials from Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and discuss arrangement this year hajj.

The MOU was signed in the office of Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in Jedda

Sheikh Ibrahim Cudjoe Quaye also thanked the Saudi government for the great efforts to serve all Muslims from all around the world.

 End.