TIMES MALAYSIA, MAKKAH – In a remarkable gesture of spiritual generosity during Hajj 2025, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has distributed 2,521,380 copies of the Holy Quran to pilgrims from across the globe.

This initiative, a personal gift from King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, reflects a profound message of unity, farewell, and the enduring connection between the Kingdom and the global Muslim community.

Unlike ordinary souvenirs, these Qurans represent a timeless spiritual legacy, offering each pilgrim a lasting reminder of their sacred journey.

The copies were produced by the King Fahd Complex for the Printing of the Holy Quran in Madinah, available in multiple sizes and translated into several major world languages to ensure accessibility and relevance for all recipients.

The Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah, and Guidance began distributing the Qurans on the second day of Tashreeq, specifically targeting pilgrims who were departing early via airports, seaports, and land crossings.

The initiative highlights Saudi Arabia’s commitment not just to logistical excellence but also to deep spiritual care for every pilgrim.

By offering the Quran as a parting gift, Saudi Arabia aims to send pilgrims home with more than just memories — with divine guidance in their hands, continuing their journey of faith far beyond the sacred sites of Makkah and Madinah.

The gift also reinforces the Kingdom’s role as a spiritual host, welcoming the world and parting with grace, compassion, and reverence.

Former Egyptian Minister of Awqaf, Dr. Muhammad Mukhtar Gomaa, praised the initiative and the broader efforts of Saudi Arabia in enhancing the pilgrimage experience.

He noted the significant improvement in service quality during this year’s Hajj, driven by modern technologies and efficient logistics, marking Hajj 2025 as a benchmark in pilgrim services.

Additionally, Saudi meteorological authorities confirmed a shift in Hajj seasons due to the lunar calendar. According to Hussein Al-Qahtani of the National Center for Meteorology, the next eight Hajj seasons will occur in spring, followed by eight in winter, before cycling back to summer in about 25 years a transition expected to offer more moderate climates for future pilgrims.

The cultural and emotional impact of receiving a Quran from the land of its revelation is profound. For many pilgrims, it is a deeply moving moment that affirms their connection not only to the faith but also to a global community of believers.

The gesture transforms the holy pilgrimage into an experience that transcends time and geography—an act of worship that continues long after they return to their homelands.

Through initiatives like this, Saudi Arabia reaffirms its leadership in the Islamic world—not merely as a custodian of sacred sites but also as a pioneer in religious diplomacy and service.

By integrating faith, hospitality, and modern management, the Kingdom continues to set a global standard in hosting the Hajj, making Hajj 2025 a powerful expression of unity and devotion for Muslims everywhere. (*)