|
Expatriates Reminded To Obey Ramadan Rules In Saudi
RIYADH (AFP) - As the month of Ramadan approaches, non-Muslim foreign nationals living in Saudi Arabia have been reminded not to flout the rules of Islam with their extra-curricula activities, particularly during the month of Ramadan, which starts next week, or face expulsion from the kingdom.
"You must all respect the tradition of fasting in this blessed month," the interior ministry said in a statement aimed at expatriates and published Wednesday.
This means no eating, drinking or smoking outdoors, in public or work places during daytime throughout the month.
Muslims are urged to abstain from sexual relations from dawn to dusk. The ministry warned of "deterrent procedures" being enforced, and that work contracts would be terminated and deportation follow for Ramadan violators.
Saudi Arabia’s religious police dress in civilian clothes and are run by the General Presidency for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vices, who ensure adherence to a strict Islamic code, including shop closures during prayer times.
The ministry statement said, "all establishments, companies and individuals must brief employees" about the warning.
Meanwhile, the general presidency of the Grand Mosque in Mecca and the Prophet's (saw) Mosque in Medina, the two holiest sites in Islam, announced preparations had been completed for Ramadan.
Sheikh Mohammad bin Adbullah al-Sibail told the Saudi Press Agency that 1,500 extra staff had been taken on to cope with influx of pilgrims on the lesser pilgrimage, or umrah, that takes place during Ramadan.
Some 10,000 wheelchairs would be provided free of charge to enable the elderly or infirmed to carry out the rituals.
Security and traffic police will be stationed at key sites in Mecca to ensure the smooth flow of traffic and pilgrims, Mecca region governor Prince Abdul Majeed told the agency.
|
