The Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah, and Guidance, represented by its branch in the Riyadh region, in cooperation with its affiliated departments in the governorates, carried out 31,263 field inspection tours during May 2026. This is part of its ongoing efforts to monitor the performance of mosque staff, improve the level of services provided, and ensure the readiness of houses of worship to provide comfort for worshippers.
The tours included supervisory and technical monitoring of mosques and congregational prayer halls 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 as follows: 5,580 tours in Zulfi, 3,726 tours in Dawadmi, 2,650 tours in Wadi al-Dawasir, 2,144 tours in Kharj, 1,723 tours in Majma’ah, 1,636 tours in Delam, 1,550 tours in Afif, 1,518 tours in Quwai’iyah, 1,421 tours in Shaqra, 1,277 tours in Hotat Bani Tamim, 1,161 tours in Aflaj, 1,110 tours in Sulayyil, 1,060 tours in Rayn, 1,024 tours in Haremla, 1,007 tours in Thadiq, 828 tours in Marat, 625 tours in Muzahmiyah, 459 tours in Ghat, 401 tours in Hariq, and 363 tours in Darma.
These efforts continue the branch’s commitment in the Riyadh region to caring for mosques and prayer halls, monitoring their readiness, maintenance, and cleanliness, reflecting the ministry’s mission in serving houses of worship and their visitors, and improving the level of services provided in various governorates, embodying the leadership’s dedication to the care and service of houses of worship.
Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah, and Guidance
The Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah, and Guidance is a government body in Saudi Arabia responsible for overseeing Islamic affairs, promoting religious guidance, and managing mosques and Quranic memorization centers. Established in the late 20th century, it plays a key role in shaping the country’s religious policies and spreading Islamic teachings, both domestically and internationally. The Ministry also supervises the annual Hajj pilgrimage and coordinates Dawah (missionary) activities to present Islam in a balanced and moderate manner.
Riyadh region
The Riyadh region, located in the heart of Saudi Arabia, is the country’s political and administrative capital, with a history that dates back to pre-Islamic times as a small settlement. It grew significantly after the 18th century as part of the rise of the First Saudi State and later became the capital of modern Saudi Arabia under King Abdulaziz Al Saud in 1902. Today, it is a rapidly modernizing metropolis blending traditional culture with futuristic development, including landmarks like the historic Masmak Fortress and the King Abdulaziz Historical Center.
Zulfi
Zulfi is a city in central Saudi Arabia, historically known as a key stop along ancient trade routes due to its abundant water sources and fertile land. It was once a major center for the Al-Zulfi tribe and played a role in the region’s pre-Islamic and early Islamic periods. Today, it is recognized for its traditional architecture, including mud-brick houses and forts, as well as its agricultural heritage.
Dawadmi
Dawadmi is a city in central Saudi Arabia, historically known as an important stop along ancient trade and pilgrimage routes due to its location in the heart of the Arabian Peninsula. It gained prominence as a key settlement for the Dawasir tribe and later developed into a modern urban center with agricultural significance. Today, it serves as a regional administrative and commercial hub, blending its historical roots with contemporary growth.
Wadi al-Dawasir
Wadi al-Dawasir is a historic valley and governorate in central Saudi Arabia, known for its ancient trade routes and agricultural significance. It was a key stop along the frankincense and spice routes, connecting southern Arabia to the Levant and Mesopotamia. Today, it remains an important cultural and economic hub, blending its rich heritage with modern development.
Kharj
Kharj is a historical region and city in central Saudi Arabia, known for its agricultural significance and ancient trade routes. Historically, it was a key settlement along the frankincense trade route and later became a prominent area during the early Islamic period. Today, it is recognized for its modern development, including the presence of Prince Sultan Air Base and its role in Saudi Arabia’s agricultural production.
Majma’ah
Majma’ah is a historic town in central Saudi Arabia, known for its traditional Najdi architecture and rich cultural heritage. It served as an important stop along ancient trade and pilgrimage routes, and its old quarter features well-preserved mud-brick buildings and a historic fortress. Today, Majma’ah is recognized for its efforts to preserve Saudi heritage and attract visitors interested in the region’s history.
Hotat Bani Tamim
Hotat Bani Tamim is a historical village located in the Al-Ahsa region of eastern Saudi Arabia, known for its traditional mud-brick architecture and ancient irrigation systems. The site dates back centuries and was historically inhabited by the Bani Tamim tribe, playing a role in the region’s agricultural and trade networks. Today, it stands as a preserved cultural landmark, offering insight into traditional Saudi Arabian rural life and heritage.