Saudi authorities have imposed a SAR 1,000 fine on anyone found feeding pigeons near Masjid al-Haram in Makkah or Masjid al-Nabawi in Madinah. The move is part of the kingdom’s continuous efforts to maintain cleanliness, prevent littering, and safeguard public health in the vicinity of Islam’s holiest sites.
Officials explained that leftover food used to attract large flocks of pigeons, leading to unsanitary conditions and the spread of diseases. Feeding pigeons, once a common act of goodwill around “Kabootar Chowk” and nearby areas, is now strictly prohibited.
To ensure public awareness, signboards and educational campaigns have been installed near both mosques, urging residents and pilgrims to cooperate with the new regulations. The initiative aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader environmental and sanitation goals, ensuring that the holy places remain clean, peaceful, and spiritually uplifting for the millions of visitors arriving every year.
Authorities reminded everyone that preserving the purity and serenity of the sacred sites is a shared responsibility, and adhering to these new rules demonstrates respect for the sanctity of Makkah and Madinah.
