The branch of the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance in the Riyadh region conducted approximately 31,300 field inspection tours during May 2026, to monitor the performance of mosque employees, improve the level of services provided, and ensure the readiness of houses of worship, in cooperation with the department’s affiliated administrations in the governorates.
Al-Zulfi tops the governorates with 5,600 tours
The tours included 5,600 tours in Al-Zulfi, 3,700 tours in Al-Dawadmi, 2,700 tours in Wadi Al-Dawasir, 2,100 tours in Al-Kharj, 1,700 tours in Al-Majma’ah, 1,600 tours in Al-Dalam, 1,600 tours in Afif, 1,500 tours in Al-Quway’iyah, and 1,400 tours in Shaqra.
They also included 1,300 tours in Hawtat Bani Tamim, 1,200 tours in Al-Aflaj, 1,100 tours in Al-Sulayyil, 1,100 tours in Al-Rayn, 1,000 tours in Huraymila, 1,000 tours in Thadiq, 828 tours in Marat, 625 tours in Al-Muzahmiyya, 459 tours in Al-Ghat, 401 tours in Al-Hariq, and 363 tours in Dharama.
The tours covered inspection and technical monitoring work on mosques and Friday prayer mosques in the region’s governorates, to verify the implementation of maintenance, cleaning, and operational work, monitor the level of services provided, and address observations. The tours were distributed across the governorates of the region.
These efforts are a continuation of the ministry branch’s commitment in the Riyadh region to care for mosques, monitor their readiness, maintenance, and cleanliness, reflecting the ministry’s mission to serve houses of worship and their visitors, and to improve the level of services provided in various governorates, embodying the leadership’s keenness to care for and serve houses of worship.
Al-Zulfi
Al-Zulfi is a city in central Saudi Arabia, historically known as a vital stop for travelers and caravans crossing the Najd region due to its abundant water sources and fertile wadis. Its history dates back centuries, with the area playing a role in local trade and agriculture, and it is particularly famous for its ancient rock carvings and inscriptions in the nearby Al-Sheikhah valley. Today, Al-Zulfi is a modern city that preserves its cultural heritage, including traditional architecture and the annual Zulfi Heritage Festival.
Al-Dawadmi
Al-Dawadmi is a historic town in central Saudi Arabia, located in the Najd region. It has long served as a key stop for pilgrims and travelers along the ancient trade and Hajj routes connecting the Arabian Peninsula’s interior to the holy cities. The area is known for its traditional mud-brick architecture and agricultural heritage, with its history deeply tied to the rise of the Saudi state in the 18th and 19th centuries.
Wadi Al-Dawasir
Wadi Al-Dawasir is a historical valley and governorate located in southern Saudi Arabia, known for its rich agricultural heritage and ancient trade routes. It was a key stop along the Incense Route, linking the region to Yemen and the Levant, and features archaeological sites such as the ruins of the ancient city of Al-Faw. Today, it remains an important cultural and economic center, celebrated for its date palms and traditional mud-brick architecture.
Al-Kharj
Al-Kharj is a historical oasis and agricultural region in central Saudi Arabia, known for its ancient irrigation systems and fertile farmlands. Historically, it was a key stop along ancient trade routes and later became a significant site during the early Islamic period, providing water and supplies to pilgrims. Today, it is a modern city that preserves its agricultural heritage while also hosting archaeological sites, such as the remnants of the pre-Islamic and early Islamic settlement of Al-Yamamah.
Al-Majma’ah
Al-Majma’ah is a historic town in central Saudi Arabia, known for its deep-rooted heritage and role as a cultural and commercial hub in the Najd region. Its history dates back centuries, with the town serving as a key stop for trade caravans and pilgrims, and it features well-preserved mud-brick architecture and ancient mosques. Today, Al-Majma’ah is recognized for its traditional markets and efforts to preserve Saudi heritage.
Al-Dalam
Al-Dalam is a historic village in central Saudi Arabia, known for its archaeological significance and ancient irrigation systems. It was once a key stop along trade routes and features remnants of pre-Islamic settlements, including stone structures and wells. The site offers insight into the region’s early agricultural and commercial history.
Afif
Afif is a town in central Saudi Arabia, historically known as a key stop along the ancient pilgrimage and trade route connecting the Arabian Gulf to Mecca. Its well-known water wells and strategic location made it an important resting point for caravans and travelers crossing the vast desert. Today, Afif serves as a modern administrative and agricultural center while retaining its cultural significance as a gateway to the Najd region.
Al-Quway’iyah
Al-Quway’iyah is a town in central Saudi Arabia, historically known as a key stop along ancient trade and pilgrimage routes connecting the Arabian Peninsula’s interior to the western regions. Its name derives from the Arabic word for “small valleys,” reflecting the area’s geographic features. Today, it serves as the administrative center of the Al-Quway’iyah Governorate, blending its historical significance with modern development.
