Prophet's Mosque Prepares for Hot Weather as Pilgrims Arrive

A high-efficiency air conditioning system is at the forefront of these efforts - SPA
A high-efficiency air conditioning system is at the forefront of these efforts - SPA
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Prophet's Mosque Prepares for Hot Weather as Pilgrims Arrive

A high-efficiency air conditioning system is at the forefront of these efforts - SPA
A high-efficiency air conditioning system is at the forefront of these efforts - SPA

The Saudi General Authority for the Care of the Two Holy Mosques has prepared for the summer heat as Hajj pilgrims arrive. With rising temperatures, the authority implemented special services to ensure the comfort and well-being of worshippers.
A high-efficiency air conditioning system is at the forefront of these efforts. It adjusts cooling based on external temperatures to maintain a balanced coolness throughout the Prophet's Mosque. The central station boasts the world's largest water-cooling condenser, utilizing cutting-edge technology to distribute cool air efficiently, SPA reported.

Moving to the courtyards, visitors will find protection from the summer sun under 250 giant umbrellas, operating with an automatic system. Misting fans further cool the atmosphere while the central misting water network undergoes continuous sterilization to ensure hygiene and visitor safety.
The authority's commitment to pilgrim comfort extends to the materials used in the mosque's construction. Areas designated for prayer in the courtyards are covered with white Thassos marble, which reflects heat and light, offering a natural cooling effect. Tiny pores allow the marble to absorb moisture at night and release it during the day, maintaining coolness during peak temperatures.
These comprehensive measures by the authority showcase Saudi Arabia's dedication to providing a comfortable and safe environment for worshippers, especially during the hot summer months.



New Pair of Giant Pandas Gifted by Beijing Arrives in Hong Kong

A zookeeper feeds An An, one of two giant pandas gifted to Hong Kong, before heading to its new destination, at Dujiangyan Base of the China Conservation and Research Centre for the Giant Panda in Dujiangyan, in southwestern China's Sichuan province on September 24, 2024. (Photo by AFP) / China OUT
A zookeeper feeds An An, one of two giant pandas gifted to Hong Kong, before heading to its new destination, at Dujiangyan Base of the China Conservation and Research Centre for the Giant Panda in Dujiangyan, in southwestern China's Sichuan province on September 24, 2024. (Photo by AFP) / China OUT
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New Pair of Giant Pandas Gifted by Beijing Arrives in Hong Kong

A zookeeper feeds An An, one of two giant pandas gifted to Hong Kong, before heading to its new destination, at Dujiangyan Base of the China Conservation and Research Centre for the Giant Panda in Dujiangyan, in southwestern China's Sichuan province on September 24, 2024. (Photo by AFP) / China OUT
A zookeeper feeds An An, one of two giant pandas gifted to Hong Kong, before heading to its new destination, at Dujiangyan Base of the China Conservation and Research Centre for the Giant Panda in Dujiangyan, in southwestern China's Sichuan province on September 24, 2024. (Photo by AFP) / China OUT

Hong Kong welcomed a new pair of giant pandas gifted by Beijing on Thursday with a lavish ceremony, raising hopes for a boost to the city's tourism.
An An and Ke Ke are the third pair of giant pandas to be sent to the city from mainland China since the former British colony returned to Chinese rule in 1997. Their arrival came after their new neighbor, Ying Ying, gave birth to twins last month and became the world’s oldest first-time panda mother on record, The Associated Press reported.
The newcomers bring the Ocean Park panda population to six, including the father of the twins, Le Le. Ocean Park chairman Paulo Pong Kin-Yee noted that would make three generations of giant pandas at the popular Hong Kong zoo and aquarium attraction.
Chief Executive John Lee said An An is a 5-year-old male panda who is agile, intelligent and active, while Ke Ke, a 5-year-old female, is good at climbing, cute and has a gentle temperament.
The new arrivals will be in quarantine for two months to adapt to their new home. Lee expressed hope that the public could meet the new bears in mid-December.
In October, the government will invite residents to propose new names that showcase the pandas’ characteristics.
Tourism industry representatives are optimistic about the potential impact of housing six pandas, hoping it will boost visitor numbers in Hong Kong. Officials have encouraged businesses to capitalize on the popularity of the new bears and newborn cubs to seize opportunities in what some lawmakers have dubbed the “panda economy."
Pandas are considered China’s unofficial national mascot. The country's giant panda loan program with overseas zoos has long been seen as a tool of Beijing’s soft-power diplomacy. Giant pandas are only found in China's southwest and their population is under threat from development.
But caring for pandas in captivity is expensive.