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New Straits Times
10-06-2025
- New Straits Times
Tighter controls, solid coordination keys to success of this Haj season
MAKKAH: A photograph of members of the Saudi Arabian security forces lying on the road after completing their duties at the end of the Haj season has captured the hearts of many. The image, posted on Pakistan Tribune's Facebook page, bore the caption 'Heroes of Hajj: Saudi Security Staff Resting on the Ground After Completing Hajj Duty'. They have truly earned the 'hero' tag. These individuals were at the frontline to ensure that this year's Haj season proceeded smoothly and safely. Those who have been to the Holy Land are already familiar with their role. Although uncompromising when carrying out their duty, their warmth when dealing with pilgrims both during the Haj and Umrah seasons is no secret. The Haj season for 1446 Hijrah officially ended last night when the last group of pilgrims vacated their tents in Mina and headed for Makkah. Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz, who is Deputy Governor of the Makkah Region and Vice Chairman of the Permanent Committee for Hajj and Umrah, announced the success of this year's Haj season in terms of security, health, and services. For the majority of the more than 1.67 million pilgrims, the 1446 Hijrah Haj season is undoubtedly a success. In terms of security, strictness was evident, especially in tackling the issue of illegal Haj pilgrims. The authorities, through the 'No Haj Without a Permit' campaign, managed to stem the entry of such groups. 269,000 WITHOUT HAJ PERMITS BARRED FROM MAKKAH Based on records, more than 269,000 unregistered individuals were barred from entering Makkah this Haj season while 400 companies had their haj services licences revoked for breaking the rules. 'No Haj Without a Permit' is more than a campaign but a stern commitment from Saudi Arabia to ensure a safe and organised Haj journey. For example, the last Haj season saw more than 1,300 heat stroke-related deaths when temperatures soared between 46 and 51 degrees Celsius. The majority of these involved illegal Haj pilgrims who entered Makkah to perform the Haj 'in secret' without going through the proper channels to ensure safety and organisation. This was among the major reasons for the Saudi government's strict enforcement, which is to reduce any risks of fatalities and more importantly, to prevent history from repeating itself. A more organised and safe Haj process is key towards effective management of the Haj, including in the aspect of managing the pilgrims' health, which is bolstered by the presence of more than 5,000 volunteers. These volunteers support the health services in three main areas namely prevention, treatment and support services. The biggest success is unquestionably in terms of managing the risk of heat stroke, especially in reducing the number of fatalities among the pilgrims from extreme heat. INTER-AGENCY COORDINATION In the context of services, praise has to be accorded to inter-agency and ministry coordination which was key to the smoothness and comfort of the Haj experience. For example, Saudi Arabia activated the world's largest cooling system in Masjidil Haram in Makkah, and in Masjid Nabawi in Madinah, for the comfort of the pilgrims and to prevent heat-related risks, with temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius. More than 400 cooling stations in major locations, and 'white roads' as heat reflectors were introduced to ensure cooler surface temperatures. Walkways are also covered, with cooling facilities provided for the ease and comfort of the pilgrims. As the season reached its peak, Saudi Arabia also engaged artificial intelligence (AI) powered drones for various purposes including crowd surveillance to prevent crushes, spot potential heat-related emergencies and the delivery of critical medicine directly to locations. Pilgrims' movement was also smooth and orderly, thanks to the systematic transportation network strengthened by more than 25,000 buses and the Mashair Metro rail. In short, Saudi Arabia's success in the management of the 1446 Hijrah Haj is a manifestation of solid cooperation and coordination by all, transcending agencies and ministries. Nevertheless, there is room for improvement, taking into account constant changes. What is clear is that this Haj season, the Saudi government's focus was on security, which is the foundation of an organised and safe journey. Prince Saud had said that preparations for the next Hajj season will begin immediately. It is evident that an analysis of what transpired during this Haj season will also be taken into account. 1.67 MILLION PILGRIMS THE IDEAL NUMBER? One must also consider - was the success of this Haj season due to 1.67 million pilgrims being the ideal number? Based on records, this was the lowest number of pilgrims since 1991 (1412 Hijrah) with the exception of the three years the world experienced the Covid-19 pandemic (1441 to 1443 Hijrah). However, it must also be considered that the 1.67 million pilgrims this season is a 'solid' number, meaning without the presence of illegal Haj pilgrims unlike years past. Nevertheless, the responsibility of ensuring the smoothness of the Haj should not be shouldered by Saudi Arabia alone. Questions have to be asked over how much commitment is taken on by other countries, including Malaysia. This includes ensuring that issues such as Haj scams and fraudulent Haj packages, which expose potential pilgrims to difficulties, are successfully stamped out. It pains the heart to constantly hear of how easily some quarters abuse religion to rake in profits. Such issues, which besmirch the name of Islam, need to be addressed effectively.
Egypt Today
09-06-2025
- Egypt Today
EgyptAir starts air-bridge to bring back pilgrims from Saudi Arabia
همث- A doctor gives preventive health advice to a group of Egyptian female pilgrims at an airport before heading to Saudi Arabia on May 30, 2025- press photo CAIRO – 9 June 2025: EgyptAir launched, on Monday, its air bridge operations on Monday to begin the return of pilgrims following the completion of Hajj rituals. Six flights were operated from Jeddah to Cairo, carrying pilgrims from the governorates of Sohag, Beheira, Giza, Menoufia, and Beni Suef, along with individual pilgrims, tourists, transit travelers, and business and residential pilgrims. This year, the national carrier is transporting approximately 66,500 pilgrims via 654 flights—comprising 324 outbound and 330 return flights. The operation includes pilgrims from the Hajj lottery, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), tourist pilgrims, and private charters, in addition to transit pilgrims from various countries. Cairo International Airport authorities are preparing for the arrival phase of the air bridge. The Cairo Airport Company, chaired by Chairman Magdy Ishaq, has implemented a comprehensive plan to ensure the smooth reception of returning pilgrims. The plan aims to streamline arrival procedures while maintaining the high standard of service provided throughout the pilgrimage journey. Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz, Deputy Governor of the Makkah Region and Vice Chairman of the Permanent Committee for Hajj and Umrah, announced the successful conclusion of the 1446 AH Hajj pilgrimage. He confirmed that the pilgrimage was conducted smoothly and safely, with notable success in the areas of security, healthcare, and service provision.
Morocco World
09-06-2025
- Morocco World
Saudi Arabia Celebrates Successful Hajj Season
Rabat — Saudi Arabia's authorities are celebrating a successful Hajj season at all levels, which ensured security and health for pilgrims. Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz, the Deputy Governor of the Mecca region and Vice Chairman of the Permanent Committee for Hajj, extended his congratulations to all people who contributed to the success of Hajj this season. 'My thanks to my colleagues in the security, health, and service sectors,' as well as the volunteers who ensure access to the Hajj rituals. He also extended his appreciation to pilgrims, describing them as 'key partners in this success through their commitment and adherence to the regulations.' About two million Muslims performed the Hajj this season. The Saudi General Authority for Statistics said over 1,673,230 people carried out Hajj rituals, among them being 1,506,576 foreigners who traveled from around the world to Saudi Arabia. The number of Saudi citizens and residents who performed Hajj this season reached 166,654. As for Morocco, the Ministry of Equipment announced a quota of 34,000, with 22,400 pilgrims managed through official government channels and 11,600 through travel agencies. Crowd control crackdown Saudi authorities faced many challenges with unauthorized pilgrims this season. Emerging reports detail that many people across the world have flocked to the Gulf countries to perform the Hajj without going through the official procedure and selection measures. Earlier this month, Saudi authorities reportedly expelled over 205,000 people who attempted to perform the Hajj without a permit. Saudi Public Security also identified over 415 fake Hajj offices and turned back more than 269,000 pilgrims without permits. Those who broke the law faced penalties, including arrest measures against at least 1,239 individuals who attempted to transport unauthorized pilgrims. In April, Morocco's General Consulate in Jeddah urged Moroccan citizens regarding entry and residence regulations, detailing strict measures implemented by authorities in Saudi Arabia. 'Holders of Umrah visas are prohibited from entering Saudi territory starting April 13, 2025. Those already in the country before this date must leave Mecca and Saudi territory completely by April 29,' the consulate warned in its statement. The Saudi Ministry of Interior also announced strict financial penalties against anyone violating regulations regarding Hajj . Among the penalties are a fine estimated at $5,331 to those caught performing, or attempting to perform, Hajj without a permit. An estimated fine of $26,658 is also imposed on people who apply for a visit visa on behalf of someone who 'performed or attempted to perform Hajj without a permit,' Gulf Business reported recently. The same fine applies to anyone who travels and stays in Mecca during the restricted period. Tags: Hajj 2025Hajj pilgrimage
Leaders
06-03-2025
- Leaders
Makkah Inaugurates Holy Qur'an Museum in Hira Cultural District
Makkah Deputy Gov. Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz has recently launched the Holy Qur'an Museum in Makkah's Hira Cultural District, according to the Saudi Press Agency. Supported by the Royal Commission for Makkah City and the Holy Sites, the museum features rare manuscripts, historical copies of the Noble Qur'an, as well as interactive visual displays that allow visitors to explore the journey of Qur'anic transcription and its preservation through history. Holy Qur'an Museum Through advanced display techniques, the museum seeks to highlight the Qur'an as the primary source of guidance for Muslims. Designed to enrich the religious and cultural experience for both locals and visitors, the Hira Cultural District represents a perfect destination for those keen to experience the spirit and history of Makkah. Holy Qur'an Museum Spanning about 67,000 sq. meters, the district boasts several facilities designed to boost the religious and educational experience. The Revelation Exhibition is an integral part of the district, offering an interactive portrayal of the descent of revelation, and another that provides visitors with an exclusive opportunity to ascend to Hira Cave which was the scene of the revelation. Holy Qur'an Museum The project also involves the Saudi Coffee Museum, the Cultural Library as well as Hira Park. Related Topics: Hira Cultural District Offers Unforgettable Historical, Spiritual Experiences Turkish President of Religious Affairs Visits Hira Cultural District Hira Cultural District Takes Pilgrims Back to the Past through Makkah Caravan Short link : Post Views: 5
Arab News
05-03-2025
- Arab News
Holy Qur'an Museum opens in Makkah
MAKKAH: Makkah Deputy Gov. Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz recently inaugurated the Holy Qur'an Museum in Makkah's Hira Cultural District. Developed under the supervision of and with support from the Royal Commission for Makkah City and the Holy Sites, the museum highlights the Qur'an as the primary source of guidance for Muslims and is designed to enrich the religious and cultural experience for both locals and visitors. It is home to rare manuscripts, historical copies of the Qur'an and interactive displays that allow visitors to explore the journey of Qur'anic transcription and its preservation through history, the Saudi Press Agency reported. Spanning about 67,000 sq. meters, the Hira Cultural District is a focal point for those keen to experience the spirit and history of Makkah. Centered on Mount Hira, where the first revelation descended, it includes various facilities designed to enhance the religious and educational experience. Among them is the Revelation Exhibition, which offers an interactive portrayal of the descent of revelation, and another that allows visitors to ascend to Hira Cave which was the scene of the revelation. Among the artifacts on display are a photographed copy of the Qur'an manuscript of Uthman bin Affan and several ancient stone inscriptions of Qur'anic verses. The project also incorporates the Saudi Coffee Museum, the Cultural Library and Hira Park. The Holy Qur'an Museum will remain open throughout Ramadan.
