Hi-tech prayer mats can refer to prayer mats that incorporate technology such as sensors or electronic components to enhance the prayer experience. In the two Holy Mosques (Al-Masjid al-Haram in Makkah and Al-Masjid an-Nabawi in Madinah), prayer mats were introduced that were designed using modern technology to provide additional functions. These carpets are designed in Saudi Arabia to meet certain criteria and technical specifications to meet the needs of pilgrims and visitors.
The high-end prayer mats were equipped with a radio frequency identification (RFID) system that made it easier for worshipers to pray. Around 25,000 of these mats placed in Masjid-e-Nabawi have an RFID chip installed which is linked to an electronic system. This system includes information on the carpet’s date of manufacture, usage history, location and washing timing.
The RFID system helps the authorities to identify and automate the process of identifying such a mat that needs to be cleaned and washed at the right time.
The mats consist of a unique fabric with a thickness of 16 millimeters, which is the ideal density for worshipers to feel comfortable when they pray.
Pure acrylic yarn with a height of 14 millimeters and 575,000 knots per square meter is also used to cover the mats. The mats are perfect for the mosque because they have an extended lifespan and low maintenance requirements.
The director of carpet cleaning in Makkah, Jaber Ahmed Al-Wada’ani, revealed to Arab News last year that it took 11 months to make the new floor coverings.
“In the past, the carpets of the Grand Mosque in Mecca were imported from Germany, Belgium and Lebanon for so many years. Between 1999 and 2000, the import of carpets was stopped and the first batch of carpets was established in a factory in Makkah,” he said.
“These rugs are made from 100% pure acrylic yarn. The pile weighs 400 grams and its height reaches 14 millimeters. The total height of one carpet is 16 millimeters.
Cleaning and maintenance
Cleaning and maintenance issues are continuously monitored and staff at the mosque routinely sweep, sterilize and perfume all carpets on a 24-hour cycle.
The carpets, which have a characteristic moss green tone, go through several cleaning processes throughout the year, as the laundry delivers 2,000 fresh carpets to the Grand Mosque every week.
