By Andrew Oota,Abuja

The Saudi Authorities have conducted 84 journalists round Makkah’s most groundbreaking museums to enhance global understanding of Islamic heritage and scientific achievements.The Saudi Authority of Media Regulation and the Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites conducted the international journalists round various sessions of the museums in Makkah.

The two organizations hosted the journalists on a curated visit to the three museums: International Museum of the Prophet’s Biography, the Clock Tower Museum and the Museum of the Holy Kaaba. Mohammed Qamerein, a tour guide at the International Museum of the Prophet’s Biography, said that the initiative was to provide journalists with firsthand insight into the spiritual, historical and scientific legacy of Islam.According to Qamerein, it is very good to be able to provide all this information for all pilgrims to benefit and learn more about Prophet Muhammad.He said that it was one of the core of Islam to know about the Prophet.Speaking on the importance of the visit to the museum sites, Zakia Koya, a journalist from Malaysia, described the visit as informative.“I find that this kind of tour is very informative because most of the journalists that come with the media normally do not have time to do this.“They do not have time to visit and see these places, and you have to pay a lot to enter these places.“So, this is very informative, especially because most of the journalists are busy covering only the pilgrims and then we are going back with the stories of the pilgrims of our countries,” he said.Another journalist from Turkey, Esra Esrahacioglu, said that the visit was impressive and helped journalists to see Makkah’s environment as it was.According to Esrahacioglu, it is a perfect chance to see this kind of old stories in a new technological way.“We see a lot of development in the city right now, but years ago, it was all different. And this museum helped us to see the environment as it was.“So, it was enjoyable for me. I would recommend people to come and see this museum,” he said.The International Museum of the Prophet’s Biography was inaugurated in 2021 and became operational in 2024 to focus on the life, character, and teachings of Prophet Muhammad.The Clock Tower Museum focuses on the timekeeping, astronomy and science, especially in relation to Islamic practices like prayer timing and moon sighting.The Clock Tower Museum in Makkah, located within the iconic Abraj Al Bait complex, offers a unique blend of scientific exploration, historical insight, and panoramic view of the holy city.