The Acting Director-General of Passports and Commander of Hajj Passports, Major General Dr. Saleh bin Saad Al-Murabba, conducted an on-site inspection of the Pilgrim Entry Permit Committee, located in the holy city of Mecca. During this visit, Major General Al-Murabba examined the operational workflow of the committee, emphasizing the critical need for the swift and accurate processing of all incoming requests related to the issuance of entry permits for the holy city.
This year, the Passports Department has initiated the reception of electronic applications for entry permits into Mecca, specifically aimed at resident workers who will be engaged during the Hajj season. This process is facilitated through the Ministry of Interior’s electronic platform “Absher,” as well as the “Muqeem” portal. Moreover, the comprehensive national application “Tawakkalna” also plays a significant role in this process, allowing applicants to obtain their permits without needing to visit passport offices physically.
These digital platforms are seamlessly integrated with the unified digital permit platform for Hajj, known as “Tasreeh.” This platform has been launched by the Ministry of Interior, in collaboration with the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA), which has developed the system. The initiative reflects a broader strategy aimed at enhancing technological integration among various governmental and service entities involved in managing the Hajj process.
The overarching goal of these initiatives is to standardize and streamline procedures while fostering cooperation among relevant authorities during the Hajj season. By implementing such efficient systems, the Ministry intends to provide high-quality services that enable the guests of Allah to perform their sacred rituals with ease and peace of mind.
This effort is part of the broader objectives of the Guests of Allah Program, a key component of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. The program is designed not only to improve the overall experience for pilgrims but also to ensure that logistical and administrative processes are cohesive and effective in supporting millions of visitors each year.
Al-Murabba’s proactive approach to overseeing the committee’s operations showcases the government’s commitment to facilitating a smooth and orderly pilgrimage experience. By ensuring that processes are digitalized and accessible, the authorities are answering the pressing demand for efficiency and reliability amid the growing influx of pilgrims.
The integration of technology into the Hajj management framework signifies a significant advancement in how the government interacts with its citizens and service users. It allows for quicker responses to requests, better data management, and an improved experience for everyone involved.
In summary, the initiative spearheaded by the Passports Department under the leadership of Major General Al-Murabba represents a transformative approach to managing the Hajj pilgrimage. By focusing on electronic applications and unified platforms, the government is not only enhancing the operational capabilities of its agencies but also working diligently to meet the spiritual needs of millions of Muslims worldwide. This strategic focus on efficiency, accessibility, and high-quality service reflects the aspirations laid out in Vision 2030, aiming to elevate the Kingdom’s position as a global leader in facilitating religious tourism and pilgrimage.
